[The Epistle of Philemon] Taking ChancesSample

The Reward of Koinonia

The second great reward of taking chances in faith and love is koinonia. Reconciliation from faith and love produces fellowship.

Paul writes, “I do wish, brother, that I may have some benefit from you in the Lord; refresh my heart in Christ” (verse 20). Some versions say, “Let me havejoy from you in the Lord.” This word, translated as benefit or joy, is a play on Onesimus’ name, which means useful. Paul communicated that Philemon’s act of forgiveness would benefit everyone—Philemon, Onesimus, Paul, and the church. Paul was interested in the spiritual benefit. He prayed specifically for Philemon’s spiritual growth in faith and love. No doubt, he prayed the same thing for Onesimus, who was now a brother in Christ. Paul saw them as spiritual sons.

Next, Paul writes, “Refresh my heart in Christ.” Earlier, he’d said Philemon’s outpouring of love refreshed the saints (verse 7). He says, “Your forgiveness of Onesimus will refresh my heart.” We have the privilege of refreshing others by obeying the Lord’s call to forgive.

Paul is confident that Philemon will do what is requested of him and even more (verse 21). That’s who Philemon is—a man of character and integrity. Do you want to be known as someone who does more than just the minimum? Do more because that is what love does. This could mean that Philemon welcomed Onesimus into the family. It could mean voluntary and enthusiastic acceptance—not just welcoming him back but killing the fatted calf, as the father did for the prodigal son (Luke 15:22–24). It could mean that Philemon freed Onesimus from his servanthood and sent him back to work alongside Paul.

What Paul is saying to Philemon is, “Be obedient. Respond as a mature Christian. Do what is right. Do for Onesimus what Christ did for you.” Such a response would enable fellowship not just between Paul and Philemon but between Philemon and Onesimus.

Paul adds, “Prepare a guest room for me because I hope to be restored to you in answer to your prayers” (verse 22). Paul expects to get out of prison through Philemon’s prayers. One of the privileges of fellowship is that we get to pray for and bless one another. Also, if you were Philemon and Paul showed up, would you forgive Onesimus? Of course! Fellowship only happens when relationships are right. We reconcile our relationships as Christ reconciled us to God.