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What do you know about Philemon? He is a great example of Christian character. Saints met in Philemon’s home. He was a friend/convert of Paul’s (v. 19). He was a slave owner. One of his slaves, Onesimus, fled from him,
possibly stealing money (v. 18-19). Onesimus was converted by Paul and served
Paul while he was imprisoned. Col. 4:7-9: Onesimus departed for Colossae.
The epistle is Paul’s plea that Onesimus is viewed as a “beloved brother” (v. 16-17).
“What is the right thing to do?” revealed Paul and Onesimus’ character.
Are others thankful for you?◦Paul expressed thanks for Philemon (v. 4).◦Would Paul be thankful for you?
Are others confident in you?◦Paul was confident in Philemon (v. 21).◦Are you reliable and trustworthy?
How can we live this way? Love (v. 5)
◦We know what Biblical love is (I Cor. 13:4-7).◦Philemon was this kind of man.
Hold on to faith (v. 5)◦Paul knew of Philemon’s faith and conviction.◦He knew Philemon would have holy conduct.
Work hard (v. 1)◦Paul said Philemon was his “fellow worker.”◦Philemon served brethren (v. 7).
Go the extra mile (v. 21; Matt. 5:40-41)◦Philemon knew what was right and he did it
to the fullest extent (Eccl. 9:10; Col. 3:23).◦Doing the minimum and what is only
required is detrimental in any walk of life. Temporal vs. eternal
◦The key word is “forever” (v. 15).◦Paul contrasts the temporary separation of
Onesimus’ running away to the eternal benefit of his salvation.