“I am sending him—who is my very heart—back to you.”
Philemon 12
You could see how Paul, a highly-educated Roman citizen, could have been what we call a type A personality. A “Hebrew of Hebrews,” he listed his zealous accomplishments easily (see Philippians 3:4-6). Prior to his conversion, he was authorized to pursue and take action against Christians. So he did—with fervor! But then he received a calling to suffer for the cause of Christ, and his hard heart began to soften. His passion became bringing the gospel to any who would hear it. Now rather than killing Christians, he was planting churches.
As an old man and a prisoner, the tender-hearted Paul writes to Philemon, a former slave, who had become a treasured friend. In the letter he makes an appeal that Onesimus, also a former slave, be welcomed back into the fellowship as a brother in the Lord. He also mentions several others who are dear to him.
Has your life become fast-paced and achievement-oriented? Don’t forget that your true calling is to enter into authentic relationship, first with the Lord and then with those He places in your life.
As an old man and a prisoner, the tender-hearted Paul writes to Philemon, a former slave, who had become a treasured friend. In the letter he makes an appeal that Onesimus, also a former slave, be welcomed back into the fellowship as a brother in the Lord. He also mentions several others who are dear to him.
Has your life become fast-paced and achievement-oriented? Don’t forget that your true calling is to enter into authentic relationship, first with the Lord and then with those He places in your life.
Scripture Focus
Philemon
Insight
“Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth.” (1 John 3:18)
Bible In A Year
- 1 Kings 13-14
- Proverbs 6
- Hebrews 7-8
