Whatcha Doin There Philemon?

Well, I've finished my Bible study of Philemon and in record time for me. OK, I know it’s only 25 verses but let me have a moment to celebrate. 

Yay! 

Moment is over.

Give theologians a chance to have a controversial topic and they will jump on it. And it seems little Philemon falls in this category. Paul wrote it so it should be in the Bible. Right? But why is it relevant to me? And that is the debate.

1.       An antislavery proclamation especially when Christians are involved. (I agree. Our country would have had a different history if we had taken these 25 verses to heart.)

2.       A unity proclamation especially when Christians are involved. (I agree. Our churches would have a different history if we had taken these 25 verses to heart.)

3.       A restoration proclamation especially when Christians are involved. (I agree. Our relationships with others would have a different history if we had taken these 25 verses to heart.)

So which one of these does Paul and God want us to accept and major on? I think all three. I have never been and probably won’t ever be a great theological debater but I wouldn't take on theologians over this.

1.       We shouldn't treat anyone as subservient. We are equal in the family of God and in the sight of God and all deserve the same love and fellowship. That kind of convicts me because sometimes I treat people differently according to societal stations. I may give them more respect or more attention according to their wealth or power. But every brother and sister in Christ deserves loving equality.

2.       We should live in harmony as a church and fellowship of believers. When we have knock down drag out fights over stuff that doesn't matter to God or eternity it’s so wrong. That kind of convicts me because sometimes I just want my way in a group. But that destroys Jesus’ intention for His bride the church.

3.       We shouldn't kick a Christian when He flubs up. Hey, we’ll all be there at some point and will need to be lovingly restored. That kind of convicts me because, yes, my ears perk up when someone says, “Did you hear about so and so and that they did such and such? Can you believe that?” Our question should be, “How can we help them get back to where they should be with God?” Then help and lovingly graciously put them back as a friend and partner in Christ.

Then Paul ends his little letter with this closing:

The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen. Verse 25

Or I like to say:

May the very breath of God on your life bring blessing, joy, favor and grace because He looks at you through the work of our Master and Savior Jesus the one and only Christ. Amen!

Thanks Paul.

I’m glad you wrote that to help Philemon.

It has helped me too.