I BEG YOU FOR LOVE

 

Philemon 1:8-25 / Keywords 1:9

I BEG YOU FOR LOVE

 

On the basis of what Jesus Christ had done in the prison of Rome, Paul could

very well have commanded Philemon to do what he should do on behalf of

Onesimus(8). But Paul didn’t command. He appealed on the basis of love. Paul

was old and locked up in prison, but eagerly asked for Onesimus, his son who

was reborn in the prison(9,10). The runaway slave, Onesimus, was originally a

useless man. But now in Christ, he has become useful not only to Paul, but also

to Philemon(11). Onesimus deserved to be called Paul’s ‘heart’(12). Paul wanted

to say, “I would have liked to keep him with me so that he could take your place in

helping me.”(13). But Paul decided not to do all this without Philemon’s consent.

Why? Because ‘he did not want to do anything without Philemons’ consent,

so that any favor he did would be spontaneous and not forced’(14). Onesimus’

escape was a serious crime in Roman society at that time. But Paul explains that

“you might have him back for good.” Paul asked not to tread him like a servant,

but to treat him as a dear brother(16). Paul even asked Philemon to welcome

Onesimus as he would welcome Paul(17). Paul said that he would pay back to

Philemon If Onesimus had done any wrong or owed him anything(18).

 

Prayer What should I appeal on the basis of love?

One Word Love for those who were useless