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20 Proverbs 27-28; 1 Samuel 4-10; 19 Psalms 65-68; 56 Titus 1-3; 57 Philemon; 58 Hebrews 1-5
2 Samuel 16-17; 19 Psalms 130-134; 56 Titus 2-3; 57 Philemon
How can the Holy Spirit guide our study of the Bible? In this episode, New Testament scholar Dr. Holly Beers joins Ellen to discuss what it means to invite His presence into our time in Scripture. Using Colossians and Philemon as an example, Holly shows how scholarly tools and spiritual sensitivity go hand in hand when studying God's word.Scriptures referenced:Luke 81 Corinthians 12-14Colossians 1:7Colossians 3:11Acts 14:221 Peter 3:17-18Colossians and Philemon: A Transformative Bible Study for Spirit-Filled ChristiansAbout Dr. Holly Beers:Faculty Page | Messages Favorite Bible: NLT | NRSVFavorite Journaling Supplies: Colored Markers | Colored PensFavorite Apps: Accordance | Bible GatewayClick here to send us your email for our newsletter OR to send a message to the show! We have no way of responding unless you leave your email.Join our community! If you are a Christian woman seeking to know God deeper, study Scriptures, pray with and for others, strengthen your faith, and support other in doing the same, this is the place for you. Want to study God's Word for yourself? Try our In-Depth Bible Study Academy Click here to try a free mini-course!
Reformed Brotherhood | Sound Doctrine, Systematic Theology, and Brotherly Love
In this episode of The Reformed Brotherhood, Jesse Schwamb and Tony Arsenal delve into the letter of Philemon, focusing on the transformative power of the gospel in relationships. They examine Paul's heartfelt appeal to Philemon on behalf of Onesimus, a slave who has become a believer and is now returning as a brother in Christ. The discussion reflects on the profound theological implications of forgiveness, reconciliation, and Christian unity, as well as the way the gospel subverts societal roles while upholding spiritual kinship. Jesse and Tony explore the delicate yet powerful language Paul employs in his letter, highlighting how he appeals to Philemon's faith and love to guide his actions. Paul's request challenges Philemon to see Onesimus not just as a slave but as a beloved brother, emphasizing the radical equality that the gospel brings to all believers. The hosts unpack the layered dynamics of this relationship, showing how it serves as a practical application of the theology outlined in Colossians. The conversation also touches on the broader implications of living out the gospel in everyday relationships. Through Paul's example, believers are encouraged to prioritize love, forgiveness, and humility, embodying the transformative work of Christ in their interactions with others. This episode offers rich insights into how theology intersects with daily life, challenging listeners to reflect on their own relationships in light of the gospel. Key Points: Paul's appeal to Philemon demonstrates a balance between authority and love, showcasing how Christian leaders can guide others in faith. The gospel transforms relationships, breaking down societal barriers and emphasizing spiritual equality among believers. Forgiveness and reconciliation are central themes, as Paul challenges Philemon to welcome Onesimus back not as a slave but as a beloved brother in Christ. Questions for Reflection: How does the gospel challenge societal roles and transform relationships in your life? What can we learn from Paul's approach to addressing sensitive and difficult situations with love and tact? How does recognizing the spiritual equality of all believers impact your interactions within the church and beyond?
In the final segment In the final segment of our Bible readings we are introduced a picture of ourself – Onesimus, a profligate runaway slave, who in Rome is liberated from his wasteful state to become a brother in Christ. The key words in this letter are related to BOWELS. Paul is demonstrating his love for God, His Son, His Word, His truth, and for Philemon and his family and the ecclesia, as well as for Onesimus. The Apostle is demonstrating to Philemon that, we must not only know and live the truth, we must love it, and God and His Son and His Word, His truth, His ecclesia, His family: we must be emotionally involved and committed. Paul sends Onesimus back to his master, as a fellow believer in Christ carrying this letter and the epistle to the Colossians. Onesimus is formerly described as being “unprofitable”, which is our condition before we believed the gospel and received forgiveness. But now he has learnt to abound in his grateful realisation of his elevated status see Ephesians 2:1-12. The Apostle Paul had taught Philemon the truth of the gospel. He speaks of Philemon's debt to God in the forgiveness which he has been given. Therefore Philemon ought to show the same forgiveness to his fellow believer – even though Onesimus was his slave. The Apostle Paul is confident that Philemon will comply with the Apostle's request. Final greetings are conveyed through Epaphras, who carries the letter to Philemon.
20 Proverbs 23-24; 04 Numbers 27-32; 19 Psalms119 1-88; 19 Psalms 120-122; 56 Titus 1-3; 57 Philemon; 58 Hebrews 1-4
Rev. John Byker joins us with a message titled “Hearts Refreshed,” based on Philemon 1:1–7 and the verse, “Because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the Lord's people” (v.7). His message will explore how God renews and refreshes our hearts through His Word, the call to repentance and glimpses of eternity. Want to learn more about Connections Church? Visit our website: https://myconnections.church/
2 Timothy is the last letter the Apostle Paul writes. The Apostle has been hunted throughout the Roman world as a criminal, and then taken to Rome and placed in a cold dark cell awaiting execution by beheading. The year is 63-64 AD. The fire which destroys half of the buildings in Rome was blamed on the Christians by Nero; and Paul as a recognised ringleader of the hated sect is to be made the chief scapegoat. The introduction to this letter additionally contains the greeting of mercy (to grace and peace) which start all the letters before the Apostle's second imprisonment; excepting Philemon which is a personal letter. As one gets older one becomes even more conscious of the need for Divine mercy – for without it we are all doomed. The words of this letter are Paul's last and chosen very carefully to warn and advise. The first great charge was to safeguard the deposit of the sound teachings which were believed. Timothy's love of the truth goes back to his mother and grandmother (Lois and Eunice). Timothy had been given the gift of prophecy by the laying on of the hands of the elders. Paul encourages this faithful young man to stir up that gift and to be invigorated to enthusiastically testify as to what Timothy knew to be true. What a hope he has embraced and he stands unshakable in his conviction that, “Jesus Christ had abolished death and brought life (Zoe) and immortality (deathlessness) to light through the gospel” (v10). Timothy is exhorted to follow the great example of faith and love that had been lived out and constantly exhibited by Paul. The Apostle says that he has fathered Timothy in the gospel. Sadly in Paul's time of needing support he is abandoned by many. Paul names two in particular – Phygellus and Hermogenes – as foremost in his abandonment. But he commends Onesiphorus, who appears to have been killed for his going to Rome to aid the aged and suffering Apostle.
Reformed Brotherhood | Sound Doctrine, Systematic Theology, and Brotherly Love
In this episode, Jesse and Tony dive into the letter of Philemon, exploring its rich themes of forgiveness, reconciliation, and Christian unity. As a follow-up to their study of Colossians, this episode highlights how the gospel transforms relationships and challenges believers to live out their faith in practical ways. Paul's appeal to Philemon serves as a powerful example of applying theology to real-life situations, emphasizing the importance of love and mutual partnership in faith. The discussion unpacks Paul's unique rhetorical approach in addressing Philemon. Instead of commanding him, Paul appeals to him out of love, trusting in his faith and Christian maturity to guide his response to Onesimus, a former slave. Jesse and Tony also reflect on the deeper implications of Christian fellowship, or "koinonia," as a bond that transcends social and cultural divisions, uniting believers in Christ. The episode challenges listeners to consider how they live out the gospel in their own relationships and communities. By highlighting the practical application of Paul's teachings, Jesse and Tony encourage believers to reflect on their own love, unity, and willingness to forgive and reconcile. Key Points: The Fellowship of Faith: Paul emphasizes the shared bond of faith, or "koinonia," between himself, Philemon, and Onesimus, which serves as the foundation for his appeal. Paul's Rhetorical Approach: Rather than commanding Philemon, Paul appeals to him for love's sake, trusting his Christian character and maturity to guide his response. Living Out the Gospel: The letter challenges believers to reflect on how they demonstrate forgiveness, reconciliation, and unity within their own relationships and communities. Questions for Reflection: How does the concept of "koinonia" challenge your understanding of Christian fellowship and community? In what ways can you practice forgiveness and reconciliation in your relationships, as Paul encourages Philemon to do? What does it mean to live out the gospel in practical ways within your own sphere of influence?
Colossians: The People of God in the Age of Empire – Culture-Making (Colossians 3:18–4:1) - Rev. Donnell T. Wyche - a2vc.org. Like us on fb.com/vineyardannarboror watch our livestream Sundays @ 10:45am - vimeo.com/annarborvineyard Summary: In this sermon, Pastor Donnell Wyche examines one of the most difficult sections of Paul's letter to the Colossians, where household codes outline relationships between husbands and wives, parents and children, and slaves and masters. Far from affirming hierarchical or oppressive structures, Pastor Donnell argues that Paul is subverting the dominant culture of the Greco-Roman world. By addressing the powerless—wives, children, and enslaved persons—directly, Paul grants them dignity and moral agency. Paul's command that husbands love their wives and that fathers avoid embittering their children is revolutionary in a culture where power was rarely checked by compassion. In Paul's view, culture-making begins at home, and households become outposts of the Kingdom when marked by mutuality and cruciform love. Pastor Donnell devotes significant attention to Paul's instruction to enslaved persons, acknowledging that these verses have been weaponized throughout church history to justify horrific systems of oppression. Pastor Donnell makes it unequivocally clear: God has always been anti-slavery. From Genesis to Revelation, God's vision is one of abundance, liberation, and human flourishing. Slavery always is anti-human (Genesis 1:26–28), anti-God (Isaiah 58), and anti-Gospel (Luke 4). While Paul does not outright condemn the institution of slavery—which scholars note was foundational to the Greco-Roman economy—Paul plants subversive seeds by calling for equality between slaves and masters, as he later does more explicitly in Philemon. Pastor Donnell laments Paul's limited prophetic imagination but sees Paul's writings as part of a kingdom trajectory that invites us to go further in working for liberation and justice in our own context. Finally, Pastor Donnell challenges listeners to resist empire not just in theory, but in practice—beginning at home. The family is often where empire's patterns of control, fear, and domination take root. But in the Kingdom of God, the home is to be a place of tenderness, security, and love. We resist empire by embodying cruciform love in our relationships—with our spouses, our children, our coworkers, and our neighbors. Through daily acts of compassion and humility, we bear witness to a different way of being—one shaped not by power but by the cross, not by empire but by resurrection.
This sermon emphasizes that God created each person on purpose, for a purpose, and with a purposeful design—regardless of their situation or status in life. Using the letter of Philemon, it explores how the Gospel transforms relationships, identity, and how we live. Paul urges Philemon to forgive and receive Onesimus, a former servant, not as a slave but as a beloved brother in Christ. The message challenges listeners to live by Kingdom values rather than cultural rights, and to let the sharing of their faith become effective through reconciliation, forgiveness, and recognizing their identity as saints in God's Kingdom.
Do you remember the joy of receiving a letter from a friend? There is just something about a personal letter in the mailbox to break up the constant barrage of bills and ads. It warms your heart, and connects you together in a way modern communication struggles to compete with. The Apostle Paul was used by God to write several letters to churches and individuals, and also to us! Four of those letters he wrote while under house arrest in Rome, and they give us a look at what is needed for spiritual health as believers. Theology matters. Doctrine matters. Fellowship matters. And Mission drives them all! Join us this weekend to see a picture of discipleship as we study together through the letters of Ephesians, Colossians, Philippians, and Philemon where the call to biblical education and Christ centered community are clear. - Pastor Ben Key Verse: Colossians 2:6 - "So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him," For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49428291
Reformed Brotherhood | Sound Doctrine, Systematic Theology, and Brotherly Love
n this episode of The Reformed Brotherhood, Jesse and Tony dive into the final verses of Colossians 4, reflecting on Paul's closing words and the rich theological and practical insights they offer. The discussion begins by addressing the significance of these often-overlooked sections of scripture, emphasizing their God-breathed purpose and the enduring lessons they provide for the church today. Paul's ministry partners, including Tychicus, Onesimus, and Luke, take center stage as Jesse and Tony explore how God uses ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary purposes in His kingdom. The conversation also highlights the theme of reconciliation, particularly through Onesimus' story, as Paul sends him back to Colossae, urging the church to embody the gospel by welcoming him with grace. This practical application of theology reminds listeners that the gospel transforms relationships and calls believers to live out Christlike love in their communities. Jesse and Tony also unpack the broader implications of Paul's instruction to share the letter with the Laodiceans, underscoring the importance of scripture's universal application across time and culture. As the episode wraps up, the hosts reflect on the unity and encouragement found in Paul's words, reminding listeners of the value of every member of the body of Christ. They also prepare for their upcoming exploration of Philemon, which continues the story of Onesimus and offers further insight into living out faith in real-world situations. This episode is a rich blend of theology, practical wisdom, and encouragement for believers seeking to grow in their understanding of scripture and community. Key Points: The Significance of Paul's Final Words: Paul's closing remarks in Colossians 4, though seemingly mundane, reveal God's interest in the details of ministry and the importance of community within the church. God Uses Ordinary People: The episode highlights Paul's ministry partners, showing how God works through ordinary individuals like Tychicus, Onesimus, and Luke to advance His kingdom. Reconciliation in Action: The story of Onesimus demonstrates the transformative power of the gospel, as Paul encourages the Colossian church to welcome him back with grace and forgiveness. Universal Relevance of Scripture: Paul's instruction to share the letter with the Laodiceans emphasizes the broader application of scripture beyond its immediate audience, affirming its value for all believers. Practical Theology and Community: Jesse and Tony discuss the importance of living out theological truths in everyday life, particularly in fostering unity and encouragement within the church. Questions for Reflection: How does Paul's inclusion of specific names and details in his letters inspire you to see God's work in the “ordinary” aspects of ministry? What lessons can we learn from Onesimus' story about reconciliation and living out the gospel in challenging situations? How can we as believers ensure that our churches reflect the unity and diversity seen in Paul's ministry team? Why is it important to view scripture as universally applicable, and how does this perspective affect how we read and apply the Bible today? In what ways can you, like Paul's ministry partners, support and encourage others in your church or community?
In this lesson, Pastor Steve Perez discusses the profound theme of forgiveness, drawing insights from the Book of Philemon. He emphasizes the importance of community, healing from trauma, and the necessity of forgiveness in personal and communal relationships. The teaching highlights how forgiveness is not only a personal journey but also a communal responsibility that can impact future generations. Through biblical references and personal anecdotes, Pastor encourages listeners to confront their own struggles with forgiveness and to understand its transformative power. In this episode, Pastor Perez delves into the transformative power of forgiveness, emphasizing its importance in spiritual maturity and personal growth. He discusses how holding onto offense can hinder one's relationship with God and others, and encourages listeners to let go of past grievances to experience healing and freedom. The lesson highlights the necessity of being proactive in forgiveness, not waiting until it's too late, and the impact it can have on one's life and relationships.Pastor Steve Perez | May 13, 2025The Fountain Apostolic Churchone_ (2025)Learn more at tfachurch.com/plusChapters:00:00 Building Community Through Ministry03:09 The Importance of Forgiveness05:59 Understanding the Book of Philemon09:10 The Foundation of Forgiveness11:48 The Cost of Forgiveness15:13 The Power of Forgiveness18:03 Forgiveness as a Witness21:02 Generational Trauma and Healing24:11 The Ripple Effect of Unforgiveness26:53 The Call to Action: Forgive and Reconcile32:12 The Power of Forgiveness37:02 Spiritual Maturity and Offense41:24 Letting Go of the Past49:05 Healing Through Forgiveness
Eastertide is the season we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus. The resurrection isn't just a one time event to commemorate, it is instead a world altering reality that invites us into a whole new way of living. We see this on full display for the earliest followers of Jesus who found their lives and world upturned by their surprising king who defeated death, sin, and the powers of evil not through violence but love. Jesus' self-sacrificial, other oriented love was vindicated in the resurrection and served as the way of life for early followers.
SummaryIn this sermon, Chad Smith explores the Apostle Paul's letter to Philemon, delving into the themes of love, faith, humility, and grace. The discussion highlights Philemon's character, the transformative story of Onesimus, and the call for Christians to live out their faith through sacrificial love and forgiveness. Sturgis emphasizes the importance of humility and the obligation to love one another as Christ loves us, ultimately reminding listeners of the grace that binds believers together.TakeawaysPhilemon is a beloved fellow worker and brother in Christ.Paul's letter to Philemon is rich in meaning despite its brevity.The love Philemon shows refreshes the hearts of the saints.Living a Christian life strengthens the faith of others.Humility is essential in Christian relationships.Onesimus represents redemption and transformation through Christ.Forgiveness is a key theme in the letter to Philemon.Paul's appeal to Philemon is rooted in love, not command.We are all called to sacrificially love one another.The gospel compels us to live in a way that reflects Christ's love.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Philemon03:08 Understanding Philemon's Character06:03 The Power of Love and Faith08:53 Paul's Appeal to Philemon12:10 The Story of Onesimus15:04 Forgiveness and Equality in Christ17:44 Living by Grace21:04 Sacrificial Love and Responsibility23:58 Conclusion and ReflectionKeywordsPhilemon, Apostle Paul, Onesimus, Christian love, humility, grace, forgiveness, New Testament, faith, transformation
An biographical sermon about Onesimus from Colossians 4:9 & Philemon 10-19.
Gillian and Matt embark on an odyssey through the world of cozy myths and legends. They spill the ambrosia on heartwarming tales like the hospitable Baucis and Philemon and the gift-giving goodness of Italian legend La Befana. They also dream up TV shows based on cozy legends like the Washington D.C. Demon Cat and reveal which mythological universe they'd happily move into. Cozy Earth Discount Visit CozyEarth.com and save 40% with code ALLTHINGS at checkout If you get a post-purchase survey, let them know All Things Cozy podcast sent you! Cozy Myths and Legends Baucis and Philemon La Befana The Cloak of St. Brigid Candle Review: Thymes' Olive Leaf Candle Support All Things Cozy by joining our Patreon and following us on Facebook, Instagram, and Bluesky.
5-4-25 sermon by Pastor Jason Huntsinger. Today Jason covers topics like repenting, forgiveness, and the love that it looks like.
In the most personal letter we have from the pen of the Apostle Paul we discover the power of grace, mercy, and forgiveness as we let Gospel influence our lives. The post Welcome Home (Paul's Letter to Philemon) appeared first on PLEASANT HILL COMMUNITY CHURCH.
“Lord, Keep Us Steadfast in Thy Word” by Kirk Meyer The post 121. The Book of Philemon, Part 3 (Philemon 1:17-25) – Pr. Will Weedon, 5/1/25 appeared first on The Word of the Lord Endures Forever.
Philemon reminds us that no one really owes us anything—especially when we consider how much grace God has given us. Just like Paul urged Philemon to forgive Onesimus, we're called to release others from their debts, even when they've wronged us. Forgiveness isn't about forgetting—it's about letting go and letting God handle the rest.
“Lord, Keep Us Steadfast in Thy Word” by Kirk Meyer The post 120. The Book of Philemon, Part 2 (Philemon 1:8-16) – Pr. Will Weedon, 4/30/25 appeared first on The Word of the Lord Endures Forever.
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“Lord, Keep Us Steadfast in Thy Word” by Kirk Meyer The post 119. The Book of Philemon, Part 1 (Philemon 1:1-7) – Pr. Will Weedon, 4/29/25 appeared first on The Word of the Lord Endures Forever.
These nine holy Martyrs were from various places, but when they refused to offer sacrifice to idols or to deny Christ, all were beheaded together in Cyzicus, a city in Asia Minor on the coast of the Sea of Marmara. Their names were Theognis, Rufus, Antipater, Theostoichus, Artemas, Magnus, Theodotus, Thaumasilas and Philemon. During the reign of the Emperor Constantine a church was built in Cyzicus in their honor, and their incorrupt relics were deposited there.
The Bible is FULL of stories where men follow God and at times go against God. Russ starts our series by preaching through the book of Philemon and his interaction with Onesimus and Paul. STAY CONNECTED // Sanctuary Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wearesanctuary/ // Sanctuary Website - https://www.blackrock.org/sanctuary/ HONOR | MERCY | GENEROSITY Sanctuary is the young adult community of Black Rock Church built on living out the honor, mercy, and generosity found in the love and life of Jesus.
Scriptures: A Misunderstood Shame Mark the Helper Acts 12:1-13, Acts 12:25, Colossians 4:10, Acts 13:1-5, Acts 13:6-12 Mark the Deserter Acts 13:1-13, Acts 15:36-39, Mark the Restored Deserter Colossians 4:10, Philemon 23, 2 Timothy 4:9-12, 1 Peter 5:13, The Beginning and the End? Mark 1:1, Mark 16:8, Mark 8:29, Application Point: Read the Gospel of Mark this Week!
❖ Follow along with today's reading: www.esv.org/Numbers2;Psalm36;Ecclesiastes12;Philemon ❖ The English Standard Version (ESV) is an 'essentially literal' translation of the Bible in contemporary English. Created by a team of more than 100 leading evangelical scholars and pastors, the ESV Bible emphasizes 'word-for-word' accuracy, literary excellence, and depth of meaning. ❖ To learn more about the ESV and other audio resources, please visit www.ESV.org
In this episode, Steve Wood explores the history of the pro-life movement and the surprising rise in abortions after Roe v. Wade was overturned. He challenges the Church's reliance on politics and law, pointing instead to true cultural transformation through spiritual conversion. Drawing from Scripture, early Church teachings, and the book of Philemon, this episode offers a powerful call to rebuild a culture of life—starting with the hearts of believers. Referenced in this episode: Philemon 8 Philemon 9 Philemon 10 Philemon 14 Philemon 21 Ezekiel 36 Visit us online at www.BibleforCatholics.com for more resources!
In this story, we learn that God's love frees us to love others. ✧ Check out more resources in The Biggest Story Curriculum ✧ Follow The Biggest Story on Instagram ✧ Watch The Biggest Story Animated Videos! ✧ Sign up to receive weekly emails about the new story each week!
Join Meredith & Holly Culhane as they answer the question, “Do I really have to forgive everyone?,” with the Biblical answer and a connecting moment to help you engage your children with the Word of God. Holly Culhane is Founder & President/CEO of Presence Point, as well as Consultant Emeritus with P⋅A⋅S, an HR consulting firm based in California which she led for 30 years. She now facilitates workshops globally, and is an author, podcaster, and blogger in the shepherd leadership arena. In addition, she has served on numerous ministry and business Boards throughout her career. She and her husband of 40 years, Doug, live in Washington state and treasure time together, as well as time with children and grandchildren on both coasts, and traveling the world. Resources Stay tuned for our Connecting Moment activity on Facebook Stay tuned for our Connecting Moment activity on Instagram Presence Point Website Ephesians 4:26 - don't let the sun go down on anger Colossians 3:1-17 - Paul's sermon of putting on/putting off Philemon - Paul's call to Philemon to forgive Onesmus Genesis 4:7 - sin crouching at the door in the story of Cain & Able Luke 4:1-13 - Jesus tempted in the wilderness Matthew 18:21-22 - Forgive 70x7 Ephesians 4:31-32 - be kind and tenderhearted Job 42:7-10 - Job prays for his misspoken friends 1 Peter 3:9 - repay evil with blessing Next Steps At Home Resource - Brick Activity: Forgiveness Blog - Encouraging Our Kids to Forgive Others Even When It's Hard Podcast- A skit that brings forgiveness to life Podcast - Does God give second chances? Podcast - Forgiving what you can't forget Start a Bible2School Program in Your Community Subscribe to our podcast
Pastor Nathan preaches from the book of Philemon on Sunday morning, April 20, 2025 (Philemon 18)
In this thought-provoking episode, Steve Wood contrasts St. Paul's grace-filled, Spirit-led approach in Philemon with common Catholic pastoral practices that often rely on external mandates. From sacraments to Mass attendance, Steve challenges the Church to rediscover the power of love, invitation, and the Holy Spirit—rather than obligation—to form vibrant, lifelong disciples of Christ. Referenced in this episode: Philemon 8–10, 14, 21 Ezekiel 36:26–27 1 Corinthians 7:7 Galatians 2:21 2 Corinthians 9:7 Visit us online at www.BibleforCatholics.com for more resources!
April 6, 2025Every local church wants harmony and connection among its members. The local church is made up of redeemed yet flawed people, and, inevitably, our flaws surface through misunderstandings, missed expectations, or messy, sometimes sinful, circumstances. How do we respond when our flaws disrupt our fellowship? Philemon contains the truths we need to walk in wholehearted fellowship with one another.Philemon 1-25
We will end this series talking about the relationship between Philemon and Onesimus. Two people in the Bible you might not heard about and what we can learn from a Christian slave and Christian Slave master.
Pastor Sean Doughtie | April 6, 2025Paul's letter to Philemon is personal appeal for forgiveness and reconciliation between Philemon, a Christian slaveholder, and Onesimus, his runaway slave who's now a fellow believer. Rather than leaning on authority, Paul speaks as a friend — calling on Philemon to receive Onesimus, not as a slave, but as a brother. This short letter is an example of gospel transformation — showing how love, grace, and shared identity in Christ can break down social barriers. It challenges all believers to embody the gospel through forgiveness, reconciliation and radical unity.
In this episode, Steve Wood explores a biblically grounded approach to parenting through the lens of Galatians and Philemon. Drawing parallels between God's method of guiding His people and raising children, Steve introduces a two-step parenting model: beginning with external rules and boundaries, but ultimately aiming for an internal transformation led by the Holy Spirit. Steve encourages parents to move beyond legalism, and instead foster environments where their children can encounter and be transformed by the Holy Spirit. Whether you're a parent seeking wisdom or simply interested in how Scripture informs family life, this episode offers practical insight and spiritual encouragement. Referenced in this episode: Galatians 4:1–7 Galatians 3:23–27 Galatians 4:6–7 (repeated for emphasis) Jeremiah 31 Ezekiel 36:26–27 Philemon 8–10 Philemon 14 Visit us online at www.BibleforCatholics.com for more resources!
20 Proverbs 15; 27 Daniel 2-5; 19 Psalms 105-106; 56 Titus 2-3; 57 Philemon; 58 Hebrews 1-6