Struggling? Back to the Basics

In this letter to Philemon, Paul was dealing with an issue raising its head at that time. As the gospel spread throughout the Roman Empire, it knew no social boundaries. People from every level of society were receiving Jesus as Lord and Saviour. This created challenging situations for the accepted order. Slaves were becoming brothers and sisters to their Christian masters and vice versa. Awkward! How does one own someone who is one’s brother or sister in Christ? How does one have fellowship with one’s church family on the one hand and then maintain a traditional relationship of slave and master? How to discern “what would Jesus do”? There were no quick and easy answers.

Paul writes to Philemon from prison, probably in Rome, about his runaway slave Onesimus. Somehow Onesimus (whose name means “useful”) had become a believer and a brother in the Lord. Although punishment for a runaway slave was severe, Paul urges Philemon to take Onesimus back and accept him as a brother.

Paul goes back to the basics. He reminds Philemon that he himself is currently in chains for the gospel (v 1). Despite the distance that separates them, they are co-workers and Philemon is “very dear” to him (v 1). Furthermore, Paul reminds Philemon that he prays for him regularly and that news of Philemon’s service in the Lord “made me happy and has greatly encouraged me” (v 7). Fellowship in the gospel transcends barriers of distance. Can it surpass social barriers of the slave/master relationship? Paul wants Philemon to welcome Onesimus as a brother, now that they are brothers in the Lord. Humility, forgiveness, and grace are needed. Can Philemon do it? With the help of God, yes.

Are you facing an impossible dilemma or an issue for which you can see no way forward? Go back to basics. God can help.

Respond in Prayer

Father, your Word says that “if any of you need wisdom, you should ask God and it will be given to you” (James 1:3). Help me, Father, to see my issues and dilemmas with your insight and perspective and to find ways forward accordingly. For Jesus’ sake, Amen.

Rob Cornish

Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® (NIV®).