Philemon 1:17-25 (NIV)

As we come to the last passage of the prison letters, we see Paul putting into action so much of what he’s been him writing about. He opens himself up to incur the cost of the unity and justice and peace and reconciliation that comes as the mystery of Christ revealed in a community.

What’s remarkable about this passage is the indirect nature of Paul’s communication. It’s firm, but it is also gentle. He offers a directive to Philemon, but does so in a way that does not shame him into action. Too often, persuasion in our society is full of shaming. Notice how Paul opens the door for Philemon and Onesimus to be unified without making Philemon look foolish or weak, nor compromising the deep needs the Onesimus had.

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1. What word or phrase stood out to you in this passage?

2. Paul’s persuasion is a work of art. What relationship in your life could use your development of this skill?

3. Have you ever had someone do for you what Paul does for Onesimus, telling your debtor to charge whatever you owe to them? Have you ever been in a position to do that for another? Are you in need of that now? Bring this situation before the Lord.

----------GO DEEPER----------

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Bible Project Video: Philemon >>

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