Christ Through the Ages, 18: Philemon–Grace in Action

<p>For additional notes and resources check out Douglas’ <a href="https://www.douglasjacoby.com/christ-through-the-ages-18-philemon-grace-in-action/" target="_blank"><strong>website.</strong></a></p><p>Introduction</p><ul><li>Grace from start to finish (vv.3, 25).</li><li>Christ was gracious, and this motivated others to change. (See John 4, John 8, Luke 19...)</li><li>Paul had clearly learned from his Lord.</li></ul><p>The situation</p><ul><li>Onesimus is Philemon's runaway slave.</li><li>He had become a Christian through Paul's influence, while Paul was in prison.</li><li>Paul -- in the presence of the other leaders and the entire church -- wishes to persuade Philemon to receive Onesimus back:<ul><li>As a brother in full fellowship,</li><li>Without holding his debts (petty theft?) against him, and</li><li>Granting him release from his servitude.</li></ul></li><li>Col 4:9 -- Was the letter delivered by Onesimus himself?</li><li>OT background: Deut 23:15 -- the runaway was <i>not</i> to be returned.</li><li>For more on slavery and the Bible, please listen to the <a href="http://www.douglasjacoby.com/slaverymp3/"><strong>podcast</strong></a> on this topic.</li></ul><p>Personal challenges (esp. for leaders)</p><ul><li>Firm yet gentle influence</li><li>Transparency of the process</li><li>Respect for all persons</li><li>Reaching out in all circumstances (e.g. in prison) Col 4:2-6</li><li>Since we all hope to receive grace, let's show it to others!</li></ul><p><i>Next podcast: Jesus Christ: Not just Superior, but Supreme</i></p>