Philemon 1-7
Notes
Transcript
Handout
Handout
Background
Background
Theme
Context
Map of Places
Timeline
Basic Outline of the book
Audience and Purpose
Relevance to today
Relevance to today
Although a personal letter, this is a rich example of how to handle conflicts within the church.
In addition, it reveals the church as a family without distinctions of class, race, or ethnicity.
Greeting vss. 1-3
Greeting vss. 1-3
Paul the prisoner of Jesus Christ
Paul the prisoner of Jesus Christ
Paul was not a prisoner of Rome - rather Christ had captured him many years before.
How did Paul’s reference to being a prisoner relate to the later request regarding Philemon’s slave Onesimus?
Paul begins the letter stating that he is a prisoner of Jesus Christ. This is a true statement, but also reminds Philemon that he has a master as well.
Philemon the beloved fellow-laborer
Philemon the beloved fellow-laborer
Notice that Paul does not begin with the problem and request. Rather, he begins politely and graciously. His relationship with Philemon was more important than his request to Philemon.
Do I seek to have a genuine relationship with others or simply to have a need met?
Apphia and Archippus
Apphia and Archippus
Apphia may have been Philemon’s wife, but it is unknown.
Paul mentions Archippus in Colossians and urges him to fulfill the ministry God had given to him.
Here he simply describes him as a fellow-soldier.
The local church
The local church
Paul begins this personal letter with a greeting to the church in Philemon’s house. This reminds us that personal matters affect the entire church.
How would you feel if your personal business was addressed in a letter to the entire church?
The Faith of Philemon vss. 4-7
The Faith of Philemon vss. 4-7
His Love for Christ
His Love for Christ
Can others see my love for Christ?
His Love for the Saints
His Love for the Saints
How can I show love for other Christians?
Paul’s Prayer for Philemon
Paul’s Prayer for Philemon
Faith in Action
Faith in Action
The word communication is the word that is normally translated fellowship. In other words, Paul is praying that Philemon’s faith would be translated into action.
Remembrance of Good Things
Remembrance of Good Things
Paul prays that Philemon would be reminded of every good thing that Christ had done for him.
Are we remembering the good things of God?
Does remembering what God has done for you encourage you to forgive and be patient with others?
Paul’s Joy and Comfort
Paul’s Joy and Comfort
Are we encouraging one another?
Would you take time to call and encourage someone within our church outside of your normal circle?