Partnering in the gospel of Christ forms a radical bond of love. God is love. As we partake in his gospel mission, we will undoubtedly be confronted with moments where forgiveness feels impossible, but we know that it is what Christ asks from us.
In these verses we see one such case. Paul, who has written to Philemon, has just asked him to accept back his bond servant, Onesimus. We see here a hint that Onesimus had wronged and possibly stolen from his master, and Paul wants them to be reconciled.
As we read these verses, focus on the actions of Paul, his words convey and demonstrate our radical call of love in Christ.
Meaning of Philemon 1:17
Paul instructs Philemon that if he would consider Paul a partner or sharer in Christ, then he should receive Onesimus in the same manner as if it were Paul himself.
The most important noun in this phrase, koinónos, is repeated and picked up from earlier in Paul's prayer when he used koinónia to mean fellowship (Philemon 1:4-7). His request is radical in light of the following verses that show Onesimus has wronged Philemon in the past.
Meaning of Philemon 1:18-19
Paul demonstrates the gospel message of Christ in these verses, offering to be a substitution for the wrongs of Onesimus. As Christ pays all of our debts, so too did Paul seek to pay every debt of Onesimus.
Philemon had every right to punish Onesimus. In these verses we find suggestion that the manner in which Onesimus left was wrongful and possibly included theft. Paul wants Philemon to set aside his legal rights and partner with Onesimus for the sake of the gospel of Christ.
Paul suggests that he is owed by Philemon. This suggestion tells us that Paul may have been responsible for Philemon's conversion, but there is no mention of Colossae in his travels. It is most likely that Paul met Philemon during his long stay at Ephesus, a couple days walk from Colossae.
Meaning of Philemon 1:20
It is clear in the previous verse that Paul wants Philemon to charge him the debts of Onesimus, and that Philemon was also fathered into the body of Christ by Paul.
As such, Paul does not hide that he is requesting much from Philemon. He writes here that he may profit from his gospel ministry. The type of profit is not monetary, for he has just agreed to pay what is owed, it is the joy of having Philemon and Onesimus reconciled in the body of Christ.
The next phrase is peculiar when translated into English, so it is translated as 'refresh my heart in Christ'. What he is actually saying is that can be at rest when the task is complete. Until then, a heavy burden lays on his heart.
Final Thoughts
In all of Paul's letters there is a great deal of doctrine, but in these few verses we see a radical demonstration of faith and love. We should be stirred to ask ourselves similar questions:
How might we help reconcile two brothers or sisters in Christ? Do we need to be reconciled with somebody? Remember, the fellowship of Christ is of greater importance than our pride. If a repentant believer asks us for forgiveness, we must call upon the strength of Christ to forgive, and be reconciled in Him.
Our love for the Lord Jesus Christ should transform us. Radical love for each other is a healthy sign that we're in Christ. Set aside wrongdoings and be reconciled to each other for the sake of the gospel of Christ.
Comentarios