One of the things that stands out for me in Paul’s personal letter to Philemon, is the character of the one to which he is writing. He called Philemon his beloved friend. These words were not mere flattery. Rather they were true praise for a man of strong character.
We acknowledge Paul’s purpose in writing. He wanted Philemon to do as he asked. Philemon’s slave, a man called Onesimus, had run away. While on the run, he met Paul and was converted. Rather than receiving punishment, Paul not only wanted Philemon to forgive the slave, but all to relinquish him to Paul, so that he might assist Paul in his work. This was a big ask, but Paul had confidence and his carefully worded letter would be successful. He believed this because he knew Philemon well.
Taken in order, Paul first called Philemon a “fellow laborer” (1). He didn’t mean the man was another tent maker. Paul’s true work was in the gospel of Christ. Consider, can you yourself be called a worker for Jesus? We often sing the song, “I want to be a worker for the Lord.” This is what the kingdom needs! As Jesus sent seventy of His disciples out into the world, He said, “The harvest truly is great, but the laborers are few; therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest” (Luke 10:2).
The text seems to indicate that Philemon’s family hosted the church in his house (2). Many scholars believe Apphia to be his wife, and Archippus his son. It is a commendable thing to show hospitality, especially to the brethren! “Be hospitable to one another without grumbling” (1 Peter 4:9).
Of course, the identifying badge of the child of God is love. It is by love that all of us are able to be identified as God’s children (cf. John 13:35). Philemon loved (5,7). “We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love the brethren. He who does not love his brother abides in death” (1 John 3:14).
All of this indicates Philemon’s faithfulness (5). He shared his faith. He did what Paul encouraged Timothy to do, “…save both yourself and those who hear you” (1 Timothy 4:16).
Like Barnabas (“Son of Encouragement” Acts 4:26), Philemon emphasized encouraging others. Their hearts had been “refreshed” by him (7). Remember, all things are to be done, “for edification” (1 Corinthians 14:26). May we be a blessing to our brethren rather than a burden.
Finally, Philemon was obedient (21). This is why Paul knew he could count on the man. He was confident that God’s desire was for Onesimus to minister to Him as he preached the gospel. He knew (as should be true with us all) that he could depend upon Philemon to be obedient to God’s will.
Philemon is a wonderful example for us to follow!
