Introduction

Good morning, dear brothers and sisters in Christ. It's always a joy to gather with you, to share in the fellowship of believers, to learn from the Word of God, and to grow together in faith. Today, we have a powerful portion of Scripture to ponder. The book of Philemon, though brief, holds profound lessons for us, lessons that resonate with the issues of our time, lessons that compel us to reflect on our attitudes, our actions, and our adherence to the teachings of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Charles Spurgeon once said, "Nobody ever outgrows Scripture; the book widens and deepens with our years." This is undoubtedly true. Each time we turn to the Bible, we find fresh insights, new perspectives, and timeless truths that speak to our hearts. We are not merely reading an ancient text; we are engaging with the living Word of God, a Word that is as relevant today as it was when it was first written.

Paul's Plea for Onesimus

Therefore, although in Christ I could be bold and order you to do what you ought to do, yet I prefer to appeal to you on the basis of love. It is as none other than Paul—an old man and now also a prisoner of Christ Jesus— that I appeal to you for my son Onesimus, who became my son while I was in chains. Formerly he was useless to you, but now he has become useful both to you and to me.

I am sending him—who is my very heart—back to you. I would have liked to keep him with me so that he could take your place in helping me while I am in chains for the gospel. But I did not want to do anything without your consent, so that any favor you do would not seem forced but would be voluntary. Perhaps the reason he was separated from you for a little while was that you might have him back forever— no longer as a slave, but better than a slave, as a dear brother. He is very dear to me but even dearer to you, both as a fellow man and as a brother in the Lord.

So if you consider me a partner, welcome him as you would welcome me. If he has done you any wrong or owes you anything, charge it to me. I, Paul, am writing this with my own hand. I will pay it back—not to mention that you owe me your very self. I do wish, brother, that I may have some benefit from you in the Lord; refresh my heart in Christ. Confident of your obedience, I write to you, knowing that you will do even more than I ask.

Personal Impact of Immigration

As we reflect on Paul's heartfelt plea for Onesimus, we can't help but see the personal impact of immigration in this narrative ... View this full PRO sermon free with PRO