Unoriginalname
Puritan Board Junior
I never really knew what to do with Philemon. I have read it a couple of times as I read through the new testament but I could never get the big picture of the book. To be honest, and not to sound irreverent I never knew why it was necessary for it to be in the Bible. BUT I feel like I may be starting to get it. So I wanted to post what I think the overview and application is so hopefully someone much wiser can tell me I am wrong and give me the right reason.
In Philemon we have, aside from the actual plot, a beautiful object lesson of unity and equality in Christ. Onesimus is not only now a slave but Philemon's brother so even though in earthy terms they could be no farther they have both been brought into the family of God by the grace of our Lord. Because of our unity in Christ we must be united to each other. Our standing in Christ is the basis for lateral repentance to each other and is how we as believers must remember to relate to one another. While these types of things can be found (i think) in Paul's other letters, this letter shows a powerful object lesson.
Anyway I hope someone will read this and correct my understanding
In Philemon we have, aside from the actual plot, a beautiful object lesson of unity and equality in Christ. Onesimus is not only now a slave but Philemon's brother so even though in earthy terms they could be no farther they have both been brought into the family of God by the grace of our Lord. Because of our unity in Christ we must be united to each other. Our standing in Christ is the basis for lateral repentance to each other and is how we as believers must remember to relate to one another. While these types of things can be found (i think) in Paul's other letters, this letter shows a powerful object lesson.
Anyway I hope someone will read this and correct my understanding
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