Characters
• Philemon- slave owner of Onesimus; church at Colossae probably met in his house.
• Apphia- likely Philemon’s wife (called “sister” in the letter)
• Archippus- child of Philemon and Apphia? a leader in the church?
• Onesimus- Philemon’s slave who had run away and encountered Paul
Reconciliation
• Vertical- We are reconciled to God through Jesus Christ
• Horizontal- Reconciliation with God leads us to reconcile relationships with one another.
Key Points in the Book of Philemon
• Verse 6- Partnership/Fellowship as key to growing spiritually
• Verses 8-9, 14- Appeal based on love and voluntary decision
• Verses 15-17, 21- Jesus transforms/re-defines our relationships
Pursuing the Ministry of Reconciliation
1. Full Understanding of the Gospel of Jesus Christ
-What if the other person isn’t a Christian?
-What if the other person doesn’t want to reconcile?
2. Recognize Role of Other Followers of Jesus
3. Courage to Address Consequences of Reconciliation
Signs/Results of Reconciliation
1. Commitment to On-Going Reconciliation
2. Patience with Personal/Spiritual Growth
3. Sacrificing for the good of the other person
4. Focus on God's Kingdom
Response
-Have you been reconciled with God through Jesus Christ?
-What relationships in your life need healing/reconciliation?
-What steps do you need to take immediately to pursue reconciliation?