An Appeal to a Friend: vv 8-14
Paul's reason for writing this letter now becomes apparent. He has a request to make of his friend, Philemon. As an apostle, Paul probably could have used his authority to order Philemon's obedience. Instead he makes a humble request.
Here is an aging man, in prison, and probably lonely. Onesimus, a slave owned by Philemon, had stolen money and somehow made his way to Rome where he found Paul. Under the influence of this grand old missionary, Onesimus was converted to Christianity. He was given a new life, but he still remained a slave.
Runaway slaves were punished severely, often being executed. Sending such a slave back to his master could have been a death sentence. Paul had come to love Onesimus, his son in Christ. Not wanting to keep him without his master's approval, Paul appeals to Philemon to receive Onesimus with love.
Christianity does not help us escape from the past. We must face the consequences of our choices, righting whatever wrongs we can. This was the responsibility of Onesimus, with the help of Paul.
For Reflection: How would I respond to such an appeal?
A Prayer Seed:
O Master, let me walk with Thee
In lowly paths of service free;
Tell me Thy secret: Help me bear
The strain of toil, the fret of care.
Washington Gladden, 1879
