LETTERS TO A FRIEND

 

Letter to a Friend – Philemon – 6-7

 

Intro:  The letter of Philemon is a story of two friends.  This letter was written by the Apostle Paul was in was in prison in Rome.  Col 4:7-9.  It probably the most personal of Paul’s letter and we see his heart in the area of restoration. 

 

Facts about Philemon:  He was a member of the church at Colossae.  This church met in his house.  He was generous and benevolent.  Vs 5-7.  He was a man of some means Vs 22.  He was also a convert of Paul, Vs 19.

 

Facts about Onesimus:  He was a runaway slave of Philemon.  Rebelled against his master and ran to Rome.  He came under the influence of Paul and became converted.  Vs 10.  The lesson we learn from his life is that you can’t run away from God

-  Onesimus became a devoted disciple of Jesus Christ.  Col 4:9.  Paul wanted to keep him as a helper this becomes a wonderful lesson of discipleship. 

-  Paul felt he should send Onesimus back and this letter is Paul pleading with Philemon to forgive, reconcile and restore Onesimus.

 

Vs 6 -  I pray that you will be active in sharing your faith, so that you will have a full understanding of every good thing we have in Christ.

 

1. Paul prays that Philemon would be active in sharing his faith.  Paul knew what was at stake, an entire generation needed to hear about Christ.  One of the goals you should have as a Christian is this very thing. 
2. Philemon that you would have a full understanding of every good thing you have in Christ.  You have redemption, forgiveness, peace, love, joy and gifts of the Holy Spirit.  Many writers of the Bible call it full salvation. 
3.  

Vs 7 – Your love has given great joy and encouragement, because you brother have refreshed the hearts of the saints.

 

1. Philemon’s love for Christ had given Paul great joy and encouragement.  Live a life of joy and be an encouragement and example. 
2. Refresh the hearts of the saints.  Be a role model, mentor and example.  Demonstrate the fruit of the Spirit. 
3. Paul uses Onesimus as an example of a changed life.  He makes an appeal for forgiveness.  We are to do this for each other. 

 

 

 

The lessons we can learn from Paul in this letter.

 

1. It is important to appeal on behalf of others and the unfortunate
2. Importance of being obedient to the law.  Onesimus had to be returned to Philemon. 
3. Being brothers in Christ destroys all social and class distinctions.