Philemon

We get a very short letter to Paul’s friend Philemon. Verse 10 shows the reason for the letter:

I make this request on behalf of my child, Onesimus, whom I brought to faith during my time in prison. ¹¹ Before, he was useless to you; but now he is useful to both you and me.

Onesimus is a salve whom Paul brought to Jesus and was saved. It is believed that this slave was important to Philemon as he may have been owned by him and escaped. The story is not clear but we know what is written by Paul.

Verses 15 & 6 give us insight on how we need to treat others:

¹⁵ Maybe this is the reason why he was supposed to be away from you for this time: so that now you will have him back forever— ¹⁶ no longer as a slave, but as more than a slave—as a dear brother. Yes, he is dear to me, but I suspect he will come to mean even more to you, both in the flesh as a servant and in the Lord as a brother.

Paul is sending him “back” which implies he had run away. Also, note how we should never create a “class” structure within the body of Christ. This is important since each may offer his skills to the people. This also shows the saving grace of the Gospel and how it’s for everyone and not the elite. We gain salvation through faith in Jesus and nothing more, not being more “religious”, or stronger or richer or whatever. It’s that simple!!

Verse 22 is a final word to Philemon:

One more thing: you should get a room ready for me as I hope to be released to you soon in answer to your prayers.

Paul is in jail and has the hope of freedom. He is the ever optimist. How many times have we been down and our worries are on the “jail cell”? I know I freak at times and cannot remove focus on the problem. History shows that none of that worry did any good. Paul is not worried of his freedom, he accepts it as a given. Now do the same!!