Philemon

How can God’s grace change a Christian slave-
owner and his slave? How can we model grace
when confronting evil? The answers are found
in Paul’s letter to Philemon, where the light of
grace shines into the darkness of sin!

The Story Behind the Letter to Philemon
· Philemon trusted Christ under the ministry of Paul. (19)
· Later, his slave Onesimus stole money and fled to Rome. (18)
· Paul met him there, led him to Christ and discipled him. (10-11)
· Now Paul sends Onesimus back to Philemon…with a letter.

The Message of Philemon: Christian love is given, not demanded, and modeled, not mandated. Paul therefore appeals for Philemon to show love, then demonstrates sacrificial love in his own actions.

Grace Lessons from Philemon

· No one is beyond the reach of God’s grace!


· Responding to God’s grace cannot be forced.


· Model God’s grace and others will follow you!


· God’s grace changes hearts…and lives.



“Let me benefit you in the Lord; refresh my heart in Christ.”
Philemon 20

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