Philemon 1-25 I Was Reluctant, But ...

I have to confess that as I looked to see what book was next on my reading list, I saw Philemon and I really didn’t want to read it.  My first thought was, “Oh, great.  Conflict between people again.”  I prayed and asked God to show it to me differently this time, because each time prior I imagined Philemon getting  this letter and feeling put upon by Paul to accept something he probably wouldn’t be wanting to accept.  I also wondered if Philemon would be rereading the letter and thinking how Paul worked it to sort of suck Philemon in before springing the news upon him.  There was a paragraph in my commentary that spoke to exactly that:

“Some suggest that Paul is using diplomacy … to soften Philemon’s heart to receive Onesimus back again.  This ascribes an unworthy motive to the apostle and casts a shadow over the inspired text.  Paul would not have said it if he had not sincerely meant it.”

Once I thought about it that way, it changed the whole landscape of the letter for me.

Philemon was a true Christian, a dear friend to Paul, and a worker with him.  He also happened to be a slave owner, and his slave apparently hadn’t been an ideal employee, having stolen from Philemon and run away.

As Paul unfolds this story in his letter, I imagine Philemon was first surprised that Onesimus had run into Paul in Rome (small world) but he had to have been amazed that as a result of this divine appointment his slave had become a believer.  Philemon could have witnessed to Onesimus on several occasions prior to his running away, with no effect.  We don’t know.  But the fact is that God used Onesimus’ sin to bring him to salvation!  Being in somewhat of a ministry position, I think this probably thrilled Philemon.

Had Onesimus simply returned to the house, things would really have been awkward for years.  But this way, the fundamental relationship between master and slave would be altered in an incredible way!  Philemon now is finding that his faith and obedience are being tested by God in how he responds.  Will he forgive and restore as God does?  Would Jesus’ words be echoing in his heart and lead him to where God wants Philemon to be – “….and forgive us our trespasses just as WE forgive those who trespass against us.”  The only possible thought Philemon could have formed upon reading Paul’s letter was, “How could I possibly call myself a Christian if, upon seeing what God has already been doing, I refuse to join Him where He’s working?”

Father, there are a lot of conflicts between people that need Your attention right now.  Please be working on them as You did here, and help me to know that You wouldn’t have left this book in the Bible if this story didn’t turn out any other way than the very best!

Your Brother In Christ,

Gary Ford