Meet Philemon

When we talk about examples in the Bible, are several names come to the top of the list. For example, how many sermons, Bible classes, or devotionals have we heard talking about following Peter or Paul’s example? While these two apostles were just ordinary men, seeing the accomplishments in their lives and ministries can undoubtedly be an intimidating set of shoes to fill. What about following in the footsteps of Jesus? No pressure, right? At some point or another, I think we all have gotten pretty intimidated by trying to live up to the example Jesus set in His earthly life. While I fully believe Jesus should be the ultimate example we strive to follow, there is no denying that it can be discouraging trying to walk in those shoes. Who can we look to as an example we feel more confident in following after? My friends—meet Philemon.

In our modern translations, the book of Philemon is only 25 verses long, making it one of the shortest books in the New Testament. Being such a short book, it’s easy to miss or simply look over. We all can probably count on one hand the number of lessons we’ve heard from it. However, when we begin to explore the letter deeper, we can quickly find an incredible example of faith, love, and service: Philemon. Little is known about this man other than just a few pieces of information thrown in throughout the letter. We know he was a relatively wealthy man through having a servant named Onesimus. It also would seem that the church was meeting in his home, believed to be the church in Colossae. 

What is really significant to our discussion, however, is the description Paul gives of this man. Just in looking at the first few verses, we are given a glimpse into the true character of Philemon:

1. “Our beloved brother and fellow worker” (v1)—Paul and Timothy saw Philemon as a true friend and companion in service to the Kingdom of God. 
2. “I hear of your love and of the faith which you have toward the Lord Jesus and toward all the saints” (v5)—Philemon’s love and faith were something noticed and discussed by those around him! He made it clear to all he came into contact with that he was a Christian.
3. “I have come to have much joy and comfort in your love…” (v7)—Though he is writing this letter in prison, Paul expresses the encouragement that Philemon has been to him.
4. “…because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you” (v7)—Philemon was a source of relief and peace to fellow Christians that were experiencing affliction and suffering.
5. “Therefore, though I have enough confidence in Christ to order you to do what is proper…” (v8)—Paul knew Philemon was the type of man who would respect his authority and heed the apostle’s instruction.
6. “Having confidence in your obedience, I write to you since I know that you will do even more than what I say” (v21)—Paul exemplifies Philemon as someone who never goes just half-way. He goes above and beyond the expectation placed upon him.

Looking at this list, are there any items/descriptions we would want to be said of us? Do these qualities fit us and describe us? Through Philemon, we have been given a great example of how we can live as Christians. While we may be overwhelmed at times looking at the examples of Jesus or the apostles, we have been given examples of people just like you and me who lived in a way that showed their relationship with the Lord. This week, let’s challenge ourselves to meet the qualities described of Philemon. We might find his shoes a little easier to fill.