Thus far in our study of the book of Philemon we have learned that this book was written by Paul the apostle to his well-beloved Philemon who was a fellowlabourer of the gospel of Jesus Christ in the city of Colosse. We have read the words of greeting that Paul has shared with Apphia and Archippas who were quite possibly members of Philemon's family and to those who belonged to the church in Philemon's house. Today we explore a significant part of the greeting of Paul in verse three where Paul wrote:
Grace to you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
“Grace” and “Peace” are the words Paul used, and there is something very special here. These two words were typical words of greeting when a person encountered another person as they came together. Instead of “hello” or “How are you doing?” as we use today, a Greek person might be overheard greeting someone with “charis” which is “grace”. A Jewish person might be overheard saying “eirene” which is “peace”. Paul combined these two greetings in many of his opening words throughout his books in the New Testament.
The Greek word “Grace” or “charis” means “the unmerited favor of God”. In other words God's favor cannot be earned. There is no amount of works or good deeds that we can do to earn God's favor. God extends His favor to all who will simply accept it. Jesus cried out on the cross, “It is finished”, and there is nothing else that needs to be or can be done. God has done all the work, and He paid the price in full for the salvation of man. Now all we must do is receive His finished and completed work, and we will be forgiven for our sins and saved from eternal separation from Him. This is indeed the grace of God.
Next Paul used the Jewish word “Peace” or “eirene” which means tranquility, rest, harmony and concord. There is nothing like the “Peace of God”. When we have a relationship with Jesus Christ, our souls are completely at rest. This is only possible by first having “peace with God”, then we obtain the “peace of God” as we relate to Him. We must experience the “Grace of God” in order to obtain “Peace with God.” Unless we receive the finished and completed work of Jesus Christ we will never know the grace of God. Once we receive God's grace, we will experience His peace. We will come into a relationship with God the Father and Jesus His Son, and we will understand there is no amount of works on our part that could have ever accomplished this. Our fellowship with the Heavenly Father is based upon His works, not ours, and when we fully realize this, no situation or circumstance will ever be beyond the boundaries of His perfect peace.
Notice too that these two words are from both the Greek and Jewish cultures. Paul uses these words on purpose to demonstrate the thoroughness of God to reach all people no matter what their cultural upbringing may be. Grace and Peace are offered “ from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ”. God desires that “whosoever will” be in fellowship and relationship with Him. Within Paul's small greeting is the very gospel of Jesus Christ. God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ offer to anyone, anywhere the “Grace” of God, and the promise is that “peace” will enter into their soul once they make the decision to accept Him as their Lord and Savior. There is only one thing left to do, receive it, and the Creator of the entire universe and us will come into our lives and give us a peace that goes beyond anyone's understanding.
Next time we will explore Paul's attitude toward Philemon as he begins to draw close to the purpose for his writing, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.
Until tomorrow... “Grace and Peace be unto you” ...there is more...
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