Philemon 1

In just 25 verses Paul conveys a compelling story of the life changing good news of Jesus Christ working in the lives of normal people.

Paul is in prison. Onesimus is a runaway slave who probably stole from his master on his way out, which in this context means he more than likely deserves the death penalty. Onesimus ends up in the same prison as Paul. Paul tells him about his life and the good news of the gospel, and Onesimus receives and embraces the gospel message. Paul then writes to Philemon telling him that he wants him to forgive Onesimus and take him back but not only take him back, but also he wants him to welcome him back as a “brother in the Lord”. It says that Paul urges Philemon “on the basis of love”. Paul has invested so much into Onisemus and loves him so much that he refers to him as his own child.

It seems like Paul is saying, “I get it, you can totally be upset, but Philemon, think about it… this is a chance to love like Jesus loves. To forgive because you are forgiven.”

Now we don’t know what happened after this. We have no clue whether Philemon did as Paul urged him. Some may ask, “Why reward someone for their obvious crimes? Why show him grace and welcome him back?

That is the drama of the gospel message! Those who are foolish, rebellious, and guilty are rescued and welcomed back through our King of Love who intercedes on our behalf.

I pray that we would have a greater appreciation for the reconciliation that comes through the gospel and that we would see ourselves as Onesimus, a runaway in need of forgiveness and restoration with his master.

  SPENCER ROTH | Pastoral Intern

Spencer went to and graduated from Hutto High School. After graduating he attended Texas A&M for two years before moving to Birmingham, Alabama to serve as an intern for a year in the worship ministry at the Church At Brook Hills.