Year of the Bible: Part Eleven of TwelveSample

Forgiveness, Reconciliation, and Restoration

Interestingly, Paul’s letter to Philemon greets several people but mainly addresses Philemon. Paul had most likely led Philemon to Christ. We know that Philemon was wealthy because he had slaves and a home large enough to host a church gathering.

Paul wrote from house arrest in Rome where, by chance, he had gotten to know Onesimus, who just so happened to have escaped from Philemon’s house. Onesimus had stolen from Philemon and ran away to Rome to hide from his master. Paul had led Onesimus to Christ and was discipling him when he discovered their mutual acquaintance with Philemon. This left Paul in a pickle: he knew that Onesimus needed to make amends, but sending him back would be volatile because Philemon had every right to execute Onesimus for running away. Yet, Paul trusted the spirit of God in Philemon to have mercy. So, he sent Onesimus back to make amends and pleaded with Philemon in his letter to have mercy. Paul knew this letter would be read to the entire church meeting in the home of Philemon, and they would see Philemon’s reaction.

The whole theme of the letter is forgiveness and restoration. Dr. Tony Evans notes, “His (Paul’s) words are a reminder that forgiveness is a prerequisite to reconciliation, and reconciliation is a prerequisite to restoration. The message of Philemon is desperately needed in our day of division and strife. As believers, we need to be Kingdom agents of forgiveness and reconciliation in each other’s lives and in the world.”

Paul was eager to visit Philemon and asked him to prepare a room in preparation. Undoubtedly, he wanted to see the reconciliation between Onesimus and Philemon in person! Any good leader wants to see his people walking in unity and loving each other. As you go about your day, look for ways to encourage yourself and others to forgive, be reconciled, and ultimately be restored. God is looking for a unified body; do your part today by yielding to His desires.

Question: Whom do you need to forgive today?

Prayer: Ask God to give you a heart of forgiveness, reconciliation, and restoration today. Ask Him for the courage to release others from the harm they have done to you. If you need to make amends, ask God for the opportunity.