Sunday, March 17, 2019

The Bringing to Age of Laborers (Philemon)


Paul writes a letter to Philemon, Apphia and Archippus. He thanks his God, making mention of these always in his prayers, having heard of their love and faith toward the Lord Jesus and all the saints.

Praying, Paul says, "that the sharing of your faith may BECOME effective by the ACKNOWLEDGEMENT of every good thing which is in you (us) in Christ Jesus." (v.6)

Paul commends these for what they have already have done by what they understand, helping those of the church which is in their house. Refraining from the boldness of commanding, Paul appeals to them to receive one, Onesimus, whom he has begotten in his chains. He sends him back qualifying that he would bring to them "my own heart". Onesimus had been a slave, but now a beloved brother of Paul's and would be to them "in the Lord".

Paul informs that they should receive Onesimus as they would him. He concludes the letter with "the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen."

(aged- brought to maturity or mellowness (1 of 6 in WCD))

I would say that Paul was getting ready to build upon their "love and faith" by witnessing to them what it means to be brought to maturity in Christ Jesus; to have, in their spirit, the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. Onesimus, who had been unprofitable to them became profitable to Paul regarding this witness. If they would receive him, they would recognize this grace which had made Onesimus a beloved brother to Paul.





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