Philemon 15

vv 15-16)

[15] Paul explains the providential hand of God at work in Onesimus’ escape.

Why do you think that Paul would say, “parted from you for a while” instead of “a runaway?”

Tactfulness, Paul spoke softly of a slave’s escape. This is another delicate stroke that Paul uses to, hopefully, restore Onesimus to Philemon.

It is a mark of spiritual maturity to be able to look beyond the adverse circumstances of the moment and see God working all things together for good to those who love Him.

When Onesimus ran away perhaps Philemon was filled with bitterness and a sense of financial loss. Onesimus was a criminal and transgressor.

Paul bring news… great news to Philemon. Onesimus was lost to the family in Colosse for a while that they might have him back forever… and as a fellow believer in Christ.

The phrase, “for perhaps” is really important. because it shows that Paul did not come to Philemon like, “Philemon, God has shown me His hidden hand at work, and you must accept what I see also.” But like this, “Philemon, it seems to me that God is working in unusual ways here. Let me tell you what I see, and perhaps it will make sense to you.”

Something else I see that Paul teaches us is this notion that dealing with people mistakes and past we must demonstrate mercy and grace with gentleness. Not dragging up their past mistakes and sins. Not ignoring consequences though.

This should be the comfort of Christians who lose believing relatives and friends in death. The separations are for a little while; the reunion will be eternal.

[16] Philemon wasn’t only getting Onesimus back–he was receiving him under better conditions than he had ever known him before.

Their relationship would not be the same master-slave relationship, it would be better. What we are talking about isn’t just a superficial change but the deepest change that only comes through the power of the gospel.

Onesimus was now more than a slave; he was a beloved brother in the Lord. Henceforth the fear motive would be replaced by the love motive.

Paul had already enjoyed his fellowship as a beloved brother. But now he would no longer have him there in Rome. And what Paul lost would be Philemon’s gain.

How do these two verses help us understand forgiveness?