Real Hope: The Power of the GospelSample

The Power of the Gospel

I’m sure you remember plenty of things about the New Testament letter to Philemon. Written by the Apostle Paul, it has no chapters, and it rivals Jude, or 2 and 3 John, for brevity. There’s the intriguing relationship between slave owner Philemon, runaway slave Onesimus, and their mutual brother-in-Christ, Paul. What about the letter’s tone of Paul sorta telling Philemon what to do, but then not (check out verses 8 and 9)?

Do you also recall how Philemon is a wonderful demonstration of the power of the Gospel? If the undercurrent of Paul’s polite plea to Philemon is forgiveness and reconciliation, it is built upon the solid foundation of embracing the good news of Jesus.

Without overstating it, Paul tells Philemon that his errant slave Onesimus is a "dearly loved brother"—quite the status change to being equals in Jesus’ flock, particularly as there is no denial that Onesimus has done wrong by the boss he cut out on. Without knowing what happened there, we do know "on the basis of love" (verse 9) Paul appeals to Philemon to welcome Onesimus "as you would me" (verse 17). What else but the Gospel’s power could lovingly compel Philemon to such open heartedness?

In this letter of exhortation, we also get no explanation about the 1st–Century practice of slavery. Seeking to understand it is a valid pursuit. But how much more valid is understanding the power of the Gospel for true forgiveness and amazing grace?

Written by BEN MCEACHEN