Salutations from Prisoners Philemon 23 - Equipped for Battle

What would we think of a message that came from an inmate? How would we respond if those greetings were from someone for whom we cared deeply? Today we consider the beginning of the final benediction from Paul the apostle to Philemon, and if we look closely, we may find our own sympathies along the way. Paul wrote in verse twenty-three:

There salute you Epaphras, my fellowprisoner in Christ Jesus;

Paul begins his conclusion to this fantastic book with salutations from “Epaphras” which means “lovely”. Epaphras was the minister or perhaps an evangelist to the church in Colossee. If we recall from an earlier study, Philemon and Onesimus were from the Colossee area. We first read of Epaphras in the book of Colossians where Paul the apostle wrote:

As ye also learned of Epaphras our dear fellowservant, who is for you a faithful minister of Christ; Colossians 1:7

In this passage of scripture Paul calls Epaphras “our dear fellowservant”, and in our verse in Philemon he calls him “my fellowprisoner in Christ Jesus”. Quite possibly Epaphras aligned himself with Paul as an evangelist of the gospel and landed in the same prison as Paul. Paul also mentions Epaphras later in the book of Colossians where he wrote:

Epaphras, who is [one] of you, a servant of Christ, salutes you, always laboring fervently for you in prayers, that you may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God. Colossians 4:12

Epaphras was not only “one of” them but also “a servant of Christ” to the people of Colossee. He was a man who labored fervently in prayers for them. What a joy it is to know that people are praying for us, and let's consider what he was praying, “that you may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God.” Now that is a great prayer for the people for whom Epaphras loved. No wonder Paul felt so strongly as to include Epaphras in his closing remarks to Philemon.

If we were to hear greetings from someone who was incarcerated, when we go beyond our yearning for their release, wouldn't it be wonderful to know that they were praying for us? Wouldn't it be special to know that their interests while being in prison was to serve us through intercessions to God on our behalf? Perhaps today we feel that we are in prison in some manner. Maybe it's a certain job, position, or situation. It could be that there are extenuating circumstances for which we were only doing what is right like Paul and Epaphras, and now we are paying a price for them. It might be that we were passed over for a well-deserved promotion, and now someone else has the job we desired. Whatever the situation may be, we make a choice. We can be as Paul and Epaphras who were imprisoned for doing the most righteous of acts and intercede and pray for others, or we can be miserable complainers who never move beyond what happened to us. May we all heed the lesson of Paul and Epaphras as we consider our positions today, and may we continue to be used by Jesus Christ no matter what our circumstances may be.

Next time we will consider a few more of the fellow-laborers who were with Paul, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

 

Prepare for a Visit Philemon 22 - Equipped for Battle

When someone we know and care for are coming for a visit, how do we feel? What are our plans, and what do we think about? Let's imagine for a moment that someone is coming to visit us who just sent us a letter requesting that we forgive someone who has harmed us in the past? What if they ask us to not only forgive them, but also to do more for them than forgive? Now how do we feel about their visit? Whatever our feelings and thoughts are, they must be some of what Philemon thought as he read this letter from Paul. Philemon has just read twenty-one lines that asked him to forgive and receive Onesimus his runaway servant and a thief. Now Paul begins to close this letter by letting Philemon know that he intends to come for a visit. He wrote in verse twenty-two:

But meanwhile prepare me also a lodging: for I trust that through your prayers I shall be given unto you.

Paul writes, “prepare me also a lodging:”. In other words, Paul is coming for a visit, but remember, Paul is writing this letter from prison. This is a statement of faith. We do not know if Paul ever visited Philemon, but whether he did or not, we find in this statement a closeness to Philemon that is presumed upon even though Paul has just made such an intercession for Onesimus. This shows a closeness to Philemon that was trusted even if Paul's request was not well received.

Paul adds, “for I trust that through your prayers I shall be given unto you.” In other words, Paul says I know you are praying for me Philemon, and I hope to be out of prison soon because of your prayers. Then I will come and visit you. What a warrior of the faith Paul was. Would to God we would all have this sort of faith. First, that we would have the confidence toward fellow believers that they would heed difficult requests. Then that we could assume that they will be happy to see us even if we give them a trying task, and then to presume that they would be praying for us to be released so that we could go and visit them. Preparing, praying, and expecting would be the presumptive themes by which Paul knew Philemon would abide.

Do we prepare for others to visit us each day? Perhaps it is someone known, or perhaps it is a stranger, but do we prepare for them? Do we pray for those we know or do not know who might be visiting us today? What about expectation? Do we await with expectation for those to whom God will bring our way today? Maybe meditating upon this verse will help us to consider how we are to be in this world among those to whom we make requests and to those who cross our paths. Our preparations for today's visits will make us more ready to receive people than if we remain idle and oblivious to those whom the Lord Jesus may bring into our paths.

Next time we will continue the final salutations of Paul to Philemon, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

 

More Than I Say Philemon 21 - Equipped for Battle

How many times have people exceeded our expectations? Are their places of business, friendships, or acquaintances who when we engage them always seem to do more than we expected? What does it make us feel like when someone provides less than we expected? Perhaps those questions and more will be our meditation for today as we consider what Paul the apostle writes to Philemon in the twenty-first verse of this book. He wrote:

Having confidence in your obedience I wrote unto you, knowing that you will also do more than I say.

Paul has been pleading on behalf of Onesimus a runaway servant and thief who belonged to Philemon. We have studied as Paul has given reason after reason as to why Philemon should be so accommodating even though Philemon was actually wronged by Onesimus. Today Paul adds, “Having confidence in your obedience I wrote unto you,” and thereby begins to presumptively imply that Philemon will make the right decision. Let's look at this phrase a little closer.

First, Paul has confidence in Philemon's obedience. Gaining the confidence of another is not always an easy task. Let's remember that Philemon is more than likely one of Paul's converts to Christianity. Paul possibly remembers Philemon before he was saved, before he had a relationship with the Lord, and before he could write such a statement to him. Confidence was gained by Philemon from Paul.

In addition to confidence, Paul wrote what he would have confidence in, “ your obedience.” “Obedience?” Did Paul write “Obedience?” Yes he did. Herein lies an insinuation of Paul's superiority and authority over Philemon. Now not only was Paul asking Philemon to receive Onesimus back, but he was also telling him to do so. The implication is that he would be disobedient should he not receive Onesimus back. This is the reason that Paul wrote to him in the first place.

Finally, Paul adds, “knowing that you will also do more than I say.” Now we are looking at Philemon exceeding Paul's expectations. Paul in the least felt that Philemon should forgive and restore Onesimus to his original position, however it appears that Paul desires that Philemon would return Onesimus to him. That would indeed be exceeding expectations. Maybe Paul would not only like that Onesimus be returned to him, but also that a gift for the ministry be added to the package. Whatever it was, Paul presented compelling words with emphasis to Philemon and acknowledged Philemon's reputation in the past.

But what about us? Do we exceed the expectations of others or simply comply with the minimum amount that should be done? Do we look for ways to do more for people than what is deemed the norm, or do we feel imposed upon should we ever have to do more than expected? Would someone say of us, “having confidence in your obedience...knowing that you will also do more than I say?” As long as we are cheering for Philemon to do so, perhaps we would do well to do more in our daily living as well.

Next time we shall look at some of the final words of Paul to Philemon, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

 

Joy and Refreshment Philemon 20 - Equipped for Battle

When someone advocates for another, we often attribute their worth to the person for whom they defend. As we have gone through these verses in Philemon we might wonder why Paul would intercede for Onesimus in the manner in which he did. But then we consider the lengths to which Paul has made his plea, and we know that Paul cared for Onesimus greatly. Paul's intercession is a wonderful example of the way that Jesus intercedes to the Heavenly Father on our behalf, and as we consider the consolation for Paul should Philemon comply, perhaps we will discover a measure of Jesus' love toward us. Paul continued his plea by writing the following words in verse twenty:

Yes, brother, let me have joy of you in the Lord: refresh my bowels in the Lord.

Paul continues his intercession with the emphasis of “yes”, which implies an affirmative presumption that Philemon would comply. He calls Philemon “brother” which is a term of endearment and relationship, and once again we consider the connection that Paul employs as he writes to Philemon. Paul then gives a prelude to his own personal reaction to Philemon conceding to his requests. He asks Philemon to “let me have joy of you in the Lord.” Paul's reaction to Philemon accepting his request would be “joy”, but not only “joy” but joy of him “in the Lord.” There is a joy that is in the Lord that is like no other joy, and it is much different than happiness. Happiness is temporary and is contingent upon circumstances. Joy, however, is a deep, constant inner fruit of God's spirit dwelling within that never leaves the one who has it. Situations may change, but the joy of the Lord does not leave.

Paul also uses a phrase that is not as familiar to us today. He says, “refresh my bowels in the Lord.” In the past we have learned that the “bowels” were referred to as the seat of emotions or the deepest part of the emotions we may incur. Today we might say, “From the bottom of my heart” or “I felt that deep within my heart.” The bowels were like the “gut” feeling we have today, and this reference from Paul declares his depth of feeling toward Onesimus and Philemon. Controversy is difficult, and whenever two people we know are at odds with one another, it makes it even more challenging. Paul knew that should Philemon forgive Onesimus and bring him back into his household, Paul himself would be refreshed. We might be able to relate to Paul when two people we care about passionately reconcile.

Perhaps today our meditation upon this verse should be, “What is it that would give us joy in the Lord? What would refresh our emotions at their deepest level?” Is the concern for us, or for someone else? Is our concern for our own benefit, or the benefit of others? As we consider this, let us remember that there is nothing in the world that gives the Heavenly Father more joy and refreshment than to know that His children have been reconciled to Him. May the peace of our Heavenly Father through Jesus Christ be upon us all.

Next time we will consider Paul's presumption of what Philemon will do, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

 

I have Written I will Repay Philemon 19 - Equipped for Battle

Commitment upon our part is one thing, but what about commitment for another person? Who would we commit ourselves to that should they acquire a bill or payment for retribution would we put it on our tab? Such is the case with Paul the apostle today as he continues his intercession for Onesimus to Philemon. Paul wrote in Philemon verse eighteen:

I Paul have written [it] with my own hand, I will repay [it]: however I do not say to you how you owe unto me even your own self besides.

Yesterday we saw Paul interceding on behalf of Onesimus for anything that Onesimus did wrong or for any money that was due to Philemon. Paul wrote that he would repay it. Today Paul even more strongly emphasizes that he will repay it by putting it in writing. There is something special about “putting it in writing.” Although a verbal contract can be legal, a more provable instrument is a written one. Whenever two parties agree to a particular transaction by way of written contract, there is definite commitment upon each side. Sometimes those commitments are not kept, nonetheless they are binding.

The amazing part of Paul's intercession is to remember the change that has occurred within him. Paul in the book of Acts was arresting and promoting the extermination of Christians. Now he is interceding for one and willing to pay for Onesimus' charges. There is, however, more to this verse.

Paul wrote, “however I do not say to you how you owe unto me even your own self besides.” Now we gain some insight as to why Paul can be so bold in his intercession for Onesimus. It appears by this verse that Philemon is actually indebted to Paul. More than likely Paul was involved in Philemon's salvation. Philemon was from Colossee where Paul shared the gospel of Jesus Christ, and this is where the relationship with God began for Philemon. In other words, Philemon was one of Paul's converts, and now Paul uses that relationship to appeal to him on behalf of Onesimus.

It is always amazing how people love to receive for themselves, but when they are called upon for the benefit of another there is great resistance. Especially if someone has wronged them in the past, most people desire judgment and punishment for them. But when it is themselves who have done the wrong they desire mercy and grace. Paul is appealing to Philemon for mercy and grace for Onesimus. The great question is, did Philemon extend it? Regardless, Paul was so willing to pay the debt or wrong caused by Onesimus that he put it in writing that he would repay it. How much more should we consider the Bible and the volume of it as God's writing to us that He not only would pay but did pay our for our wrongs and debts?

As we consider the repayment of wrongs and debts today, perhaps there will be opportunity to right the wrong of another person or pay the debt of someone else. Will we sit in the seat of Philemon and judge them, or will we freely pay as Jesus did for their wrongs?

Next time we will consider what would make Paul the apostle happy, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

 

Put It on My Account Philemon 18 - Equipped for Battle

How many times have we been asked to pay a tab or a bill for someone else? Has there been a time when we were left owing money when we had nothing to do with receiving the benefit? Such is the case accepted by Paul the apostle today for Onesimus. Paul wrote to Philemon:

If he has wronged you, or owes you anything, put that on my account;

We have watched and studied as we have been through this book verse by verse the intercession of Paul the apostle for Onesimus who was a runaway servant and a thief. Onesimus is now a Christian, and he is being returned to his owner Philemon who is more than likely greatly displeased with Onesimus. Philemon has been wronged, and he is rightfully due whatever was stolen from him by Onesimus. But, Paul uses these words to engage Philemon, “If he has wronged you”. “If”? Paul uses the word “if”? Yes, and in it we see the intervening that Paul continues to employ as he writes to Philemon on Onesimus' behalf. Onesimus is guilty, and he should be punished or put to death. Onesimus has wronged Philemon, and he does owe him, yet Paul writes “or owes you anything”. It is almost as if Paul has determined that there is nothing that Onesimus owes at all.

Paul then does something that we rarely see today. He writes, “put that on my account.” Now if we are parents we are particularly used to having the expenses of someone else put on our account, but Onesimus is a guilty runaway slave and a thief. Paul is interceding for him? Yes, and he is interceding to the point that he is willing for it to cost himself personally should the need arise. Paul is willing to pay the price for another man's wrongs and debts. This should remind we Bible students of someone else who did this...Jesus.

John the apostle wrote in the book of First John in chapter two and verse two speaking of Jesus:

And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for [the sins of] the whole world.

Jesus Christ came into the world to pay for the sins of every person. He is the “propitiation” or “the means of appeasing” the Heavenly Father for all of our sins. We were wrong. We owed a debt, and Jesus basically said, “Put it on my account”. If we have ever had someone pay for something that was our fault or our tab so to speak, we know the gratefulness we have toward them. But what about Jesus? Jesus paid the price of death for our wrongs. Jesus paid the penalty of death for our debt, and now all He asks is that we believe in Him and accept Him as Lord and Savior? Yes, and we would do well to think deeply about Jesus' sacrifice the next time we have to pay the bill for someone else.

Paul was interceding to the point of it costing him something, and Jesus did too. For Paul, it might cost a little money. For Jesus, it cost him His life. Each of these consist of restoring relationships, and each of them are models for the manner in which we too should live.

Next time we will see Paul put it in writing that he will pay the debt owed by Onesimus, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

 

Receive Him as Me Philemon 17 - Equipped for Battle

Line after line and verse after verse we have observed Paul the apostle making an appeal to Philemon on behalf of Onesimus who was Philemon's runaway servant. Onesimus is now a Christian, and Paul believes that Philemon not only should receive Onesimus when he returns to him, but also believes that Onesimus will be a much better servant than he ever was before. We have seen a type of Jesus Christ in Paul as he has interceded for Onesimus, and we have likened Paul's intercession to the way Jesus intercedes to the Heavenly Father on behalf of those who believe and trust in Him as Savior and Lord. Today we see another level to which Paul takes his intercession for Onesimus as we read in verse seventeen:

If you count me therefore a partner, receive him as myself.

Now this is intercession indeed! Paul the apostle wrote these words to Philemon who he considered to be a “partner” in the gospel of Jesus Christ “If you count me therefor a partner”. In other words, there was a condition attached. “If” which implies the possibility that there “may not be”, and Paul gives place for that possibility. Nonetheless, Paul says, “If you count me therefore a partner”... “receive him as myself.”

Let's consider those last words for a moment... “receive him as myself.” Paul suggests to Philemon that he should receive this runaway servant and thief as though it were himself who was returning to Philemon. Paul puts himself in Onesimus' place and is willing to receive whatever retribution Philemon might have in store for Onesimus upon his return. Does this sound familiar? Let's look at the following words of Paul found in the book of Second Corinthians in chapter five and verses eighteen and twenty-one:

And all things [are] of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;... For he hath made him [to be] sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.

Paul was being like Jesus for Onesimus. Paul, like Jesus who stands before the Heavenly Father on our behalf, is taking Onesimus' place. In other words, the Heavenly Father looks at us and sees Jesus who interceded for the punishment of our sins. When God could send down judgment upon us for our failures and disobedience, Jesus steps in and says, “Father, receive them as me.” Jesus who did no wrong, Jesus who was perfect in every way, and Jesus who is the only righteous one who may intercede in this manner, goes before the Heavenly Father and intercedes to the degree that He puts Himself in their stead and asks God to receive us.

Paul's striking example of full commitment in intercession should not only humble us, but make us all examine to what degree we would intercede on behalf of others. Perhaps today our meditation question might be, “Who in this world would I put myself in place of that another person might forgive and receive them?” May the Lord help us all as we continue in His word.

Next time we will see to what degree Paul will pay the price for interceding on behalf of Onesimus, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

 

A Greater Onesimus Philemon 16 - Equipped for Battle

How does a person ever become greater than they already are? Is it through practice, study, or repetition of behavior? Is it through meditation, thought or routine? Perhaps these are some beneficial ways, but when we come to know Jesus Christ as our personal savior, there is no greater improvement that may be gained in our lives. Such is the case with Onesimus as Paul the apostle informs us through today's study of verse sixteen in his book to Philemon. He wrote:

Not now as a servant, but above a servant, a brother beloved, especially to me, but how much more unto you, both in the flesh, and in the Lord?

Throughout the beginning portions of the book of Philemon, Paul has referred to position after position as he has interceded for Onesimus whom we found to be Philemon's runaway servant. We noted that not only did Onesimus run away from Philemon, but he also stole from him when he departed. Now Paul through this letter is informing Philemon that Onesimus has become a Christian since he left, and his life is now changed. Paul knows Philemon to be a man of great reputation for his faithful love for God and other people, and now Paul challenges Philemon to receive Onesimus once again “not now as a servant, but above a servant.” We can imagine how we might be if we were in Philemon's position. We may know what it means to be a Christian, but what if we were asked not only to forgive someone who wronged us, but also to receive that same person with the idea that they would be better now than they were before? How would we be?

Paul says Onesimus is now “above a servant”, and he is also “a brother beloved.” Onesimus believes in Jesus Christ as his Savior and Lord, and this makes him even more special not only to Onesimus, but also to Paul. Paul wrote, “especially to me, but how much more unto you.” Paul found Onesimus useful in his ministry, and although Onesimus is returning to Philemon, Onesimus is a changed man. He is not the same as he was before. He's greater. This is the effect of giving our hearts to Jesus Christ. He changes us and makes us to be greater than we ever were before.

Notice too that this effect not only takes place spiritually, but also physically. Paul said, “both in the flesh, and in the Lord.” So many times a person may claim to have a changed their lives spiritually, but the reflection of that change is not manifested in their every day lives. They may have some spiritual experience, but if that experience doesn't change their attitudes or manner in which they live, there really is no effective change. Too many people in this world say they have spiritual experiences, but their lives reflect no change at all. This was not the case for Onesimus. He was now a true servant, a useful servant, and a faithful servant who was willing to return to his master Philemon in the hopes that Philemon would received him again.

Do we want our lives changed? Do we desire to become greater than what we are? Is there another level of faithfulness, loyalty, commitment and trust that we desire? If so, as with Onesimus, the answer is found in our relationship with Jesus Christ who desires to make us all we truly can be in this world not only in a spiritual fashion but also in a physical one where all the world can see.

Next time we will continue to see the devotion that Paul has for Onesimus, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

 

Departed for a Season Philemon 15 - Equipped for Battle

Throughout the last few verses of the book of Philemon, we have been studying the manner in which Paul the apostle intercedes on the behalf of Onesimus. Although Onesimus was in error when he ran away from Philemon and stole from him, Onesimus was returning to Philemon's home, and now Philemon was being asked to receive him once again. Today we look at another reason Paul gives to Philemon about Onesimus' return in verse fifteen of this amazing book. He wrote:

For perhaps he therefore departed for a season, that you should receive him for ever;

Paul wrote “For” or because, or maybe the reason was...and follows it with something to which we all would do well to pay close attention “perhaps he therefore departed for a season”. The key words here are “for a season”, or a little time, a short venue . Sometimes parents know the pain of a child who seems to have gone away for a season. There seems to be a disconnect in conversations. There may be a separation in words or actions, and sometimes a parent may want to ask, “Who is this person, and who stole my child?” Unfortunately, some people have experienced what it is like for a person they love to be incarcerated, and there seems to be no way this person will ever change. Paul's words to Philemon can be a great help in times like these.

Paul continues, “that you should receive him for ever.” This parting of Onesimus, this separation for a season could be that Onesimus will be with Philemon for ever. In other words, there may have had to been the separation for Onesimus to change. Sure the time for Onesimus to be away was painful. Of course the theft by Onesimus must have been hard, but now Onesimus is returning to Philemon a changed man. Sometimes people we love must endure difficult times in order to change. Onesimus received Jesus Christ as his Savior and Lord when he ran away, and some people will only reach out to God when they are in great trouble. A relationship with the Heavenly Father changes everything within a person's life. There is a new outlook, a new way of thinking, new actions and new behavior when the Savior comes in. This new behavior usually changes the relationship between other people as well. Parents have their children like never before. Loved ones exhibit appreciation and love at greater levels, and those whom we care so deeply about are forever changed. And all this occurs because they “departed for a season.”

We must keep in mind that those we love so dearly even though they may have departed from us for a while, will never be able to go beyond the grasp of God. He knows where they are. He knows what they're saying, thinking and doing at all times, and He knows exactly what it takes to draw them into a relationship with Him. As one old country preacher used to say it, “Don't you worry about that child of yours out there. God's got a trap set for him or her somewhere.” God was watching Onesimus, and God saved Onesimus, not only for his sake, but also for Philemon's sake as well.

Next time we will look at the new relationship that is a result of Onesimus coming to know Jesus as his Savior, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

 

Willing Permission Philemon 14 - Equipped for Battle

Paul the apostle has been making an appeal for Onesimus who was a runaway slave who belonged to Philemon. During his escape, Onesimus gave his life to Jesus Christ through the ministry of Paul, and now he was being returned to his owner quite possibly with this book named Philemon in hand. Paul has referenced Philemon's commitment to others and his relationship with Jesus Christ; he has spoken of Philemon's reputation and testimony among fellow believers, and now one of Philemon's greatest test of his faith is at hand: what will he do with Onesimus? Paul has found Onesimus useful in his ministry, but rather than keep him for himself, he is sending Onesimus back to Philemon with an appeal. He continues that appeal in today's verse found in Philemon fourteen. Paul wrote:

But without your mind would I do nothing; that your benefit should not be as it were of necessity, but willingly.

Yesterday Paul wrote that he would have “retained” Onesimus with him because he could minister to Paul while Paul was in prison. It appears that after Onesimus gave his life to Jesus, he began to help Paul with his ministry. Now Paul strengthens his appeal for Onesimus by stating that he desired for it to be Philemon's decision whether Onesimus could continue with Paul or not. He said, “without your mind I would do nothing;” Paul believed Onesimus to be a very useful part of the work he was doing, but he wanted Philemon to give his willing permission for him to continue.

Paul adds, “that your benefit should not be as it were of necessity, but willingly.” In other words, that Philemon would “benefit” or give Onesimus to Paul not out of restraint but by a willful act. There is a lot to be said about a gift that is given begrudgingly versus one that is given freely. Even God the Father desires that we give out of cheerful hearts rather than feeling manipulated to do so. Second Corinthians chapter nine and verse seven says:

Every man according as he purposes in his heart, [so let him give]; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loves a cheerful giver.

Paul knew the rightful owner of Onesimus was Philemon, and in that day, a slave was as property. It would be a willing gift for Philemon to return Onesimus to Paul, and this is where the greatest challenge will be for Philemon's faith. Will Philemon not only forgive Onesimus, but also give him to Paul to be used in the ministry? Can we imagine this test for a moment? What if Onesimus was ours to give? Would we give him, or would we make him pay the normal price of a beating, death or at the least the branding of an “F” in his forehead to label him a fugitive? But alas, we don't have such situations today, or do we?

Let's examine two. First, what if we had someone wrong us in some manner? Would we be inclined to be merciful to them, and not only forgive them but bless them instead? Or would we make them pay the price for their infractions against us? Would we lovingly receive them back into our lives, or would we “brand” them and keep them far away? This is quite the test isn't it?

Secondly, what if we are the “runaway slave” who has wronged the rightful owner. And let's suppose that Jesus is making an intercessory appeal on our behalf before the Heavenly Father. Should God forgive us, and possibly bless us even though we deserve beating, death or at a minimum branding with an “F” on our foreheads because we are fugitives? What would our desire be? What would be our hope, and what is it that we would have God the Father decide? Perhaps when we look at it from this view, we greatly appreciate the willing permission of the grace of God that is waiting for all of us who will simply and humbly come before Him who has all power and authority at His disposal.

Next time we will look at one of the greatest verses within this tiny book, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

 

Retained for Ministry Philemon 13 - Equipped for Battle

What do we think of when we hear the word “substitute”? Is it an teacher, a pinch hitter, or a lesser skilled player? Some might like to think of those who are lesser, but what if the person were one of greater skills? Would our feelings and thoughts be the same then? Perhaps these questions are a great way to approach today's verse in the book of Philemon. In verse thirteen we discover where not only is Paul the apostle interceding for Onesimus to Philemon, but he even declares Onesimus a thriving substitute for Philemon. Paul wrote:

Whom I would have retained with me, that in your stead he might have ministered unto me in the bonds of the gospel:

Paul decided to send Onesimus back to Philemon, even if Philemon might not be so happy about his return. Onesimus was now a Christian, and although he may pay a price for his return, going back to his master Philemon was the righteous action to take. Paul, however, states of Onesimus, “whom I would have retained with me”. This statement indicates that Onesimus was living up to his name “profitable” with Paul. Paul saw value in Onesimus, and Paul saw a benefit to having Onesimus with him. Now our inclination might have been “then you go ahead and have him or her” when someone has wronged us as much as Onesimus had Philemon, but Paul intercedes for him.

Furthermore, Paul the apostle wrote, “that in your stead he might have ministered unto me in the bonds of the gospel:”. In other words, Onesimus would be the substitute for Philemon. Instead of Philemon doing the work, Onesimus would. Paul was more than likely in prison at this time for his infractions against Jewish law for preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ. However, this did not stop Paul from sharing with others. There are indications from other books in the Bible that Paul used his prison as a base of operations and would send couriers to carry out his message. Paul saw Onesimus as not only a new brother in Christ, but also a benefit to the gospel of Jesus Christ. Paul desired to retain Onesimus for ministry, but deferred permission to Philemon.

Slaves were abundant in the days of the Roman Empire, and their treatment was very shameful. They had no rights, no ownership, and no ability for appeal. If they ran away, they were treated severely as to warn other slaves to never attempt such an act. They were usually beaten, killed or at the least branded with an “F” on their foreheads to declare them a “fugitivos” or fugitive. This punishment perhaps awaited Philemon. Can we imagine his thoughts as he returned to his master Philemon? And still, Paul desired to retain Onesimus for the benefit of the gospel. No wonder Paul made such intercession.

Can we liken ourselves to Onesimus for a moment? We were once runaways from God, and yet Jesus has interceded. We have stolen from God, and yet Jesus has interceded. We deserve punishment, beating, death or at the least branding, and yet Jesus has interceded. We should be labeled “fugitivos”, and yet Jesus has interceded. Oh what joy should fill our hearts as we examine these wonderful words of Paul the apostle as they become an ever growing example of the manner in which Jesus pleads to the Heavenly Father on our behalf. Rather than punishment and banishment as runaway slaves, we are drawn close and retained for the gospel's sake and useful in Jesus' desire to spread the gospel throughout the world.

Next time we shall look further into Paul's intercession for Onesimus, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

 

Philemon, Receive Him as Me Philemon 12 - Equipped for Battle

The intercession has begun, and Paul is the author of it. Onesimus who was Philemon's runaway slave and a thief is now being sent back to Philemon. Paul has spoken of the testimony of Philemon and how he has a reputation among fellow believers for being a lover of God and people. The test is now at hand, and Paul will give ample opportunity for a true trial of the faith of Philemon. Paul writes of Onesimus in verse twelve of this great book:

Whom I have sent again: you therefore receive him, that is, mine own bowels:

Paul has sent Onesimus back to Philemon quite possibly with this book we are studying in hand. If we try we can imagine what it must have been like for Onesimus to know that he was going back to the person that he not only ran away from but also the one from whom he stole. This can be compared to what it is like for the person who gives his life to Jesus Christ. Responsibilities are still to be upheld, and even though the consequences for previous actions may be dire, the servant of Jesus Christ faces them. For example, sometimes people commit a crime, are arrested, and truly do commit their lives to Jesus Christ. This does not eliminate their previous crime, and they may still have to go to court and receive punishment for their actions. Such is the case for Onesimus. Paul understands that the righteous action to take is to send Onesimus back to Philemon again, and so he did.

Next Paul gives Philemon instruction: “you therefore receive him”. The natural tendency for most of us might be to “reject” someone who had done us as wrongly as Onesimus. Yet Paul writes “receive him.” It is normal for us to not want receive someone who maligns us, and it pains us even more when they have stolen from us. Can we imagine the face of Philemon when he saw or heard that this runaway slave Onesimus was coming? Yet Paul says not only to receive him, but also pleads passionately, “that is, mine own bowels:”. We have discussed the idea of “bowels” in previous studies, but to reiterate, the bowels were considered to be the seat of the deepest emotions. The bowels were like the expression “from the deepest part of my heart” as we use today. So Paul is pleading for Onesimus from the deepest part of his emotional being. Think about Paul's commitment to Onesimus for a moment.

Now let's consider this. We have been seeing this book as a type of Jesus Christ and the way he is making intercession for us before the Heavenly Father. Jesus pleads on our behalf. Jesus passionately calls out to the Heavenly Father to “receive” him or her, and because He does, we can be saved. Not only did Jesus pay the price for all of our sins, but He also makes intercession before the Heavenly Father for each of us who turn our lives to Him. We should be reminded of what Paul the apostle wrote in another one of his books named Ephesians, in chapter two and verses eight and nine:

For by grace are you saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: [it is] the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.

It is by God's grace that we are saved. It is not any thing or any work that we have, can or will do. It is “the gift of God,” and there is nothing else that need be done. May all who read these words come to realize the wonderful relationship that is available from our intercessor Jesus who stands ready to take His place.

Next time we will see more of what Paul has to say about Onesimus, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

Profitable Onesimus Philemon 11 - Equipped for Battle

Yesterday we discovered the primary purpose for Paul the apostle's letter to Philemon. Onesimus, who stole from Philemon and was his runaway slave, was now a Christian who more than likely became one as he sat with Paul in prison. Paul was sending Onesimus back to Philemon and was interceding on his behalf. We saw that Paul has become a type of Jesus Christ who intercedes to the Heavenly Father for us and is the greatest intercessor of all. Today Paul continues his description of the now transformed Onesimus in verse eleven and uses a play on words to do so. He wrote:

Which in time past was to you unprofitable, but now profitable to you and to me:

The name “Onesimus” means “profitable”, so let's think about this for a moment. Paul is writing to Philemon about “profitable”, and he tells him, “which in time past was to you unprofitable”. In other words, Onesimus did not live up to his name. Rather than being a “profit” to Philemon, Onesimus was a liability. Onesimus ran away, and Onesimus stole from Philemon. He was indeed “unprofitable.” However, let's ask, what changed? What was it that changed in Onesimus? The answer is that he met Jesus Christ. His life was changed because he met Jesus Christ. Before we comment more, let's read more of what Paul said once again,

“but now profitable to you and to me”.

Now, because of the change in his life, Onesimus was profitable, and he was not only profitable to Philemon, but also to Paul the apostle. This is the remarkable alteration within anyone who comes to Jesus Christ and makes Him Lord of their lives. People whom many have discarded and surmised that there is no hope or profit within them can become profitable human beings. The reason they behave in the manner they do is because they have not received Jesus as Lord and Savior of their lives. The reason they run away, steal, cheat, lie and live deceptively is because they serve another Lord rather than Jesus. It should not surprise us at all when unbelievers act in pernicious and ungodly ways. It should not shock us at their language, their actions, or their attitudes. They are simply living as their natural nature dictates. Such was the case with Onesimus, until he met Jesus Christ.

The truth is that all of us were “runaways” from God the Father. All of us have stolen from Him, and we as Onesimus need someone to intercede on our behalf just as Paul did. Jesus is our intercessor. Jesus not only intercedes but He made a way for we runaway thieves to have a restored relationship with God. More than we may have realized we are much like Onesimus, and now we have seen the answer to our runaway plight. May we all bow in gratitude to our intercessor Jesus for not only speaking on our behalf, but paying the price that we may have fellowship with God the Father.

Next time we shall look at Paul's pleading in particular for Onesimus, so read ahead and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

My Son Onesimus Philemon 10 - Equipped for Battle

What does it mean to “intercede” on the behalf of another person? We use the euphemisms “go to bat for”, “advocate”, or “defend”, but how many times do we actually defend or walk through tribunals on behalf of others? Perhaps if your vocation is a defense attorney, there are many occasions, but for most of us there are very few times, if any, that we intercede. Until today's verse, Paul the apostle has been sharing with Philemon his thoughts about him. He has written of Philemon's commitment, example, and love toward God and before others. He has told of Philemon's testimony that is strong in the area of serving others, and Paul concedes his apostolic authority and agedness to ask Philemon a certain request rather than demand it. However, in verse ten of this wonderful book we see the reason for Paul writing. He wrote:

I beseech you for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten in my bonds:

Paul is writing on behalf of “Onesimus” whose name means “profitable” or “useful”. Onesimus was a runaway slave who belonged to Philemon. We shall discover that it appears that not only did Onesimus run away from Philemon, but he also stole items from Philemon when he left. Paul was in prison in Rome at this time, and Onesimus by occasion happened to run into Paul there. We should recognize enough of Paul the apostle already to know that everyone was a candidate to know Jesus Christ when it came to Paul the apostle, so it is quite certain that Onesimus was one of those candidates.

Paul the apostle calls Onesimus “my son”, and Paul “beseeches” or begs for, pleads for, intercedes for him to Philemon. Paul feels so close to Onesimus that he calls him “my son”. It's as though all the previous greeting to Philemon has been given in anticipation of this moment, and the care and concern Paul has for Onesimus becomes a great lesson for us as we learn from Paul's strategic delay. Rather than talk about Onesimus first, Paul writes about Philemon first. Rather than beginning this letter with the raw subject of Philemon's runaway slave, Paul speaks of Philemon's manner of living. This provides the platform by which Paul can convey what was probably a very sore topic in the mind of Philemon. In other words, all Paul's greeting was meant to soften the blow.

Paul also informs Philemon as to how he began to relate to Onesimus - “whom I have begotten in my bonds”. While Paul was in prison he had numerous occasions to share the gospel of Jesus Christ, and Onesimus was one of those people with whom he shared. Evidently Onesimus gave his heart and life to Jesus Christ, and he was now a Christian. Paul's intention was to send Onesimus back to Philemon, and Paul's letter was meant to intercede on Onesimus' behalf.

Can we imagine Philemon's reaction for a moment? What would we be like if we had an employee, a friend, a guest or a family member who ran away from his or her responsibilities and stole from us when they did? Would we forget their name? Would we grimace in agony and anger every time we heard them mentioned in any way? How would we react if someone was appealing to us on their behalf, and not only appealing, but were asking even more from us toward them? This explains part of the reason Paul the apostle did not come as an authority but as the aged one who pleads.

Would we be an advocate for others? Would we seek opportunity to intercede on someone else's behalf? Jesus did. Jesus is our advocate before God the Father. God the Father is merciful, kind, loving and caring. God's very nature is forgiving, and He desires that everyone have a relationship with Him. Our sin, like Onesimus', requires an intercessor, and Jesus is that intercessor. Paul appealing for Onesimus is a startling example of how Jesus intercedes for us. May we humbly receive the gift of our advocate, and ask Him to share with us how we may become advocates too.

Next time we shall look further into Paul's description of Onesimus, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore