Philemon

“To Philemon, Apphia, Archippus and to the church that meets in your home. Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. I always thank my God as I remember you in my prayers, because I hear about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints.” Comment: Paul said the church that meets, meaning people met.

“I pray that you may be active in sharing your faith, so that you will have a full understanding of every good thing we have in Christ. Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you have refreshed the hearts of the saints.”

Comment: Sharing faith requires communication that refreshes and encourages one to be faithful in living their Christian life.

“I could be bold and order you to do what you ought to do. I appeal to you on the basis of love to you for Onesimus, who became my son while I was in chains. He was formerly useless to you, but now very useful both to you and to me.”

“I am sending him back to you although I would like to keep him so that he could take your place in helping me while I am in chains for the gospel. But I did not want to do anything without your consent, so that any favor you do will be spontaneous and not forced. Perhaps the reason he was separated from you for a little while was that you might have him back for good— no longer as a slave, but better than a slave, as a dear brother. He is very dear to me but even dearer to you, both as a man and as a brother in the Lord.”

“So, if you consider me a partner, welcome him as you would welcome me. If he has done you any wrong or owes you anything, charge it to me. I will pay it back. I know that you will do even more than I ask. Love One Another is discussed in thebiblewayonline.com/HTML/OneAnother/OneAnother.html

Key Points from Philemon ➢ Do not keep something that rightfully belongs to another regardless of how beneficial it is or will be to you. ➢ Friends can freely exchange desires, needs and benefits without the feelings of obligations to ask or to receive. ➢ Love is unmeasurable. ➢ Fellowship involves communicating God’s word, love of brethren and providing needs to those without necessities of life.

Question – What is “active in sharing your faith?”