July 31

Introduction

Philemon 1–25: Philemon was a prominent Christian in Colossae and the owner of a slave named Onesimus. The slave had run away from his master and somehow met Paul, who was then in prison. Through Paul, Onesimus became a Christian. Today’s reading is a public letter from Paul to Philemon. The apostle appeals to Philemon to be reconciled with Onesimus, whom Paul is sending back to him. Paul asks him to welcome Onesimus not only as a forgiven slave but also as a Christian brother.

Today’s Key Verse: Philemon 3

May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace.

Reflect

If Onesimus had intentionally run away from his master, Roman law would have allowed Philemon to punish him severely, perhaps even putting him to death. What does Paul encourage Philemon to do instead? What does Paul’s letter to Philemon teach us about how Christians should treat one another? What can you learn from Paul’s example and the actions he took on behalf of Onesimus?

Pray

Holy God, fill me with your Holy Spirit and give me a humble and repentant heart, teaching me to forgive others as you have forgiven me in Christ Jesus. Amen.

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Congratulations on completing this reading plan! You may continue your journey with Daily Bible Reading by starting the plan: “God’s Guiding Word: Faith.” Tomorrow’s reading is: Joshua 1:1–18: God commands Joshua to conquer Canaan.