Paul refers to himself as a prisoner of Christ, not a prisoner of Rome.

Philemon had a church that met in his home. He was considered a wealthy man because he had slaves.

Our love is only “true” when it’s directed to everyone.

Paul was getting old and as an elder in the church. He could’ve ordered Philemon to do these things but because of love he made it a request.

Paul wanted Philemon to be kind to Onesimus. Onesimus was Philemon’s runaway slave. Escaped slaves were usually killed or marked with a hot iron to make it known they were fujitives. Paul wanted to keep Onesimus in Rome with him because he had been very helpful. Paul thought that Onesimus ran away to serve God’s purpose of him being converted.

Paul asks Philemon to receive Onesimus just as he would receive Paul.

Jesus intercedes with God for us. He asks God to gives us the righteousness of Christ. Jesus asks God to put all our transgressions and sins on his account.

Paul reminded Philemon that he owned him a favor because his life was saved when Paul led him to Christ. Paul was confident that Philemon would comply with his request.

Read: Hebrews 1

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To Be Continued Thursday,  January 19th…………..