For additional notes and resources check out Douglas’ website.
Introduction
- Grace from start to finish (vv.3, 25).
- Christ was gracious, and this motivated others to change. (See John 4, John 8, Luke 19...)
- Paul had clearly learned from his Lord.
The situation
- Onesimus is Philemon's runaway slave.
- He had become a Christian through Paul's influence, while Paul was in prison.
- Paul -- in the presence of the other leaders and the entire church -- wishes to persuade Philemon to receive Onesimus back:
- As a brother in full fellowship,
- Without holding his debts (petty theft?) against him, and
- Granting him release from his servitude.
- Col 4:9 -- Was the letter delivered by Onesimus himself?
- OT background: Deut 23:15 -- the runaway was not to be returned.
- For more on slavery and the Bible, please listen to the podcast on this topic.
Personal challenges (esp. for leaders)
- Firm yet gentle influence
- Transparency of the process
- Respect for all persons
- Reaching out in all circumstances (e.g. in prison) Col 4:2-6
- Since we all hope to receive grace, let's show it to others!
Next podcast: Jesus Christ: Not just Superior, but Supreme