READ Philemon 1

 Paul takes time to express gratitude for Philemon, the man after whom this epistle is named.

Notice verses 4-7, “I thank my God, making mention of thee always in my prayers, 5Hearing of thy love and faith, which thou hast toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all saints; 6That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus. 7For we have great joy and consolation in thy love, because the bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee, brother.

Paul is going to ask this dear Brother to forgive and restore a runaway slave whose name is Onesimus, but before doing so, he is going to commend Philemon for the faithful life he has lived for Christ.

·         First, note that Paul demonstrates his gratitude for Philemon through expressions of gratitude in his heart by praying consistently for Philemon – vs. 4.  Hopefully, we too will demonstrate our gratitude by praying for others.

·         Secondly, notice how Paul expresses his gratitude for the love Philemon showed for both the Savior and for other saints – vs. 5.

·         Thirdly Paul expresses his gratitude for Philemon’s faith – vs. 5.  Paul had heard of Philemon’s faith as well as his love.  Others will often see the way you live and will share it with others.  This should encourage us to live upright lives so that the report will be God honoring and uplifting to others.

·         Next, Paul expresses gratitude for the effects of his fellowship with Christ – vs. 6.  Dr. David Sorenson states that verse six might be paraphrased, “That the fellowship of thy faith may be effective by acknowledging every good thing in you which is in Christ Jesus.”  The things that we have in Christ are too numerous to list, but each thing should impact the way we communicate/fellowship with others.  There are good people to fellowship with and there are people you should stay away from.

·         Finally, Paul expressed his gratitude for the joy and consolation that made its way into the very heart and soul of other believers – vs. 7 It has been said that not only did Philemon fellowship with the saints, but he also helped the saints with his acts of kindness.  It is obvious that Philemon was wealthy and chose to share his wealth to refresh others as he could.

May we be grateful for those believers who live in a manner that influences us to live uprightly before the Lord.  I pray that others will be grateful for the way you and I live.

Your Friend and HIS,

Pastor Abbott

MEDITATIONS

1.  Do you take time to pray for those for whom you are grateful?  If not, why not?

2.  Does your life demonstrate a faithfulness to the Saviour?  What might others deduce from the way you life your life?

3.  Do the moments that you spend with others (fellowshipping), build them up or tear them down?  Explain.

4.  Do you take time to refresh the “bowels of the saints”?  What does this mean and what can you do to encourage others more?