Paul Writes to Philemon From Prison
June 22, 2021
Commentary
In this short personal letter to Philemon Paul writes from prison as a friend to a friend (v. 1). Paul is imprisoned in Rome while waiting trial after his appeal to Caesar (Acts 28:16, 30-31). Although several names are mentioned, the main content of the letter is addressed to Philemon, the master of the house who is living at Colossae. His wife is Apphia and his son is Archippus who are together with Epaphras, the founder of the church (v. 2). Paul prays that the Lord will be kind and bless his friend with peace (v. 3)!
He goes on to tell Philemon, that each time he mentions him in prayer, he thanks God for him and his faith in the Lord and his love for all of God’s people (vv. 4-5). As he shares his faith with others, he prays that they may come to know all the blessings Christ has given to them (v. 6). Paul expresses to Philemon how much his love has made him happy and has greatly encouraged him in his walk with the Lord (v. 7). It has also cheered the hearts of God’s people.
Application
Just as Paul reflects on Philemon’s love and kindness to others I should be opening myself and my home to others. As I do this it will bring refreshment to the hearts of God’s people.
Philemon 1:1– 7 (NET)
1 From Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus, and Timothy our brother, to Philemon, our dear friend and colaborer, 2 to Apphia our sister, to Archippus our fellow soldier, and to the church that meets in your house. 3 Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ!
4 I always thank my God as I remember you in my prayers, 5 because I hear of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints. 6 I pray that the faith you share with us may deepen your understanding of every blessing that belongs to you in Christ. 7 I have had great joy and encouragement because of your love, for the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you, brother.
Illustration: Swindoll Little Boy Has Thankful Heart
Chuck Swindoll writes: “I recall, as a little barefoot boy with a cowlick of snow-white hair on my forehead, standing erect in my classroom and repeating the “Pledge of Allegiance” one Thanksgiving season. Our nation was at war and times were hard. My teacher had lost her husband on the blood washed shores of Normandy. As we later bowed our heads for prayer she wept aloud. I did too. All the class joined in. She stumbled through one of the most moving expressions of gratitude and praise that ever emerged from a soul plunged in pain. At that time in my young life, I fell strangely in love with Thanksgiving. Lost in sympathy and a boy’s pity for his teacher, I walked home very slowly that afternoon. Although only a child, I had profound feelings of gratitude for my country . . . my friends . . . my school . . . my church . . . my family. I swore before God that I would fight to the end to keep this land free from foes who would want to take away Americas distinctives and the joys of living in this good land. I have never forgotten my childhood promise. I never shall.” (Charles R. Swindoll, Growing Strong in the Seasons of Life, Grand Rapids: Zondervan, p. 424).