In today’s reading of Tyndale’s OYCSB (with featured content written by the CBT team),
- Philemon is a member of the church at Colosse. Because Paul is sending Onesimus as a member of the team delivering his letter to this church, Paul also writes Philemon personally. Onesimus is a runaway slave in the household of Philemon. Onesimus was lost when he abandoned his responsibilities in Philemon’s care, but now he is a brother in Christ! Now he is saved. Paul wants to make sure Onesimus is forgiven and treated as a member of the church—not a runaway slave.
- The Philippian church is dear to Paul’s heart. Paul planted the church in the midst of persecution and trial. They have been a great help to him. Paul is thanking them for their financial help, strengthening them against the fear of persecution and false teaching, and admonishing them for allowing conflict to go unresolved.
Let’s dive into today’s reading!
