Get a New Outlook On Life. (Philemon 1-3)

Source: thoopid.com

A brief background of Philemon uncovers this to be Paul's shortest letter in the Bible. Although it is addressed specifically to Philemon himself, it is not a personal letter for his eyes only. It is predominantly about Onesimus, a servant belonging to Philemon, which suggests that Philemon was wealthy. The opening verses enlightens us to more information about this wealthy man. On the surface, this letter is very much a character reference for Onesimus, in order for Philemon to accept him back, but, as we delve deeper into the passages, we will see a far greater message being shared.

Verse 1
Paul, a prisoner for Christ Jesus, and Timothy our brother, To Philemon our beloved fellow worker ...

The Apostle Paul introduces himself at the start, to make it clear who has written the letter, perhaps to ensure it is received with the intention it has been sent. Paul has Christian authority over the reader and "is bold enough in Christ to command" (v8) him to follow his instructions. Paul opens most of his letters this way, leading each time with this authority. Also, Paul was an actual prisoner for the sake of Christ (Act 27-28) at the time, this was his first imprisonment in Rome around A.D. 62. No doubt, after 30 years of ministry, Paul would have counted his imprisonment for Christ's sake, as a blessing. "a prisoner for Christ Jesus" also gives the reader hope.  Although Paul is unable to verbally preach the gospel, he is still able to share the gospel through word, thereby giving those who 'look up' to him encouragement to keep to the path.  Timothy was a close companion of Paul who traveled with him and a devout "brother".  Then we get to the intended reader, Philemon.  We know that Philemon was a slave owner (v16), that he probably lived in Colossae and he became a Christian through hearing Paul (v19) and he was considered by Paul as a "beloved fellow worker".

Verse 2
... and Apphia our sister and Archippus our fellow soldier, and the church in your house:"

Apphia is Philemon's wife and it is possible that Archippus is their son (although there is little evidence for either way!), but we do know Paul considers him a "fellow soldier", this is most likely because of the support that he has given Paul in his ministry labours. The "church in your house" suggests that Philemon saw it upon himself to organise a Christian community in his very own home, this may or may not include his servants (nothing suggests either way). This is likely due to his conversion and seeing a need for a congregation to form in Colossae to continue to spread the gospel.

Verse 3
Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

This greeting indicates a prayerful concern for Philemon and his congregation that they may fully understand the grace that God gives and his peace through Jesus Christ, his son. This may suggest that Paul wants the congregation to think carefully what he is about to talk about and that everything he says is grounded in the grace and peace of God the Father and through Jesus Christ.

Even at the start of the letter, Paul fully submits to Christ Jesus (v1) admitting that he is a prisoner for Christ Jesus. If anything, this shows Paul's conviction about his faith in Jesus, that he is willing to continue to preach the gospel even if his very life is in danger.  In the first few verses, Paul, once a man who persecuted Christians for following Christ (Acts 8), now openly confesses that he does everything for the sake of Christ (v1).

If anything this should encourage us today, especially if we face persecution.  I don't just mean those who are in fear for their lives, but those who are ridiculed or overlooked because of their faith. Believing in Christ, following Christ, having fellowship with Christ and believing in the truth, the real truth, despite what people say, do or think no matter what temptation is the faith that Paul shows here in these opening words, Paul, a prisoner for Christ Jesus.  Of course, he was actually in prison, but that was for preaching the gospel of Jesus.

As we will read later, I think this is quite a poignant point Paul is making here.  Opening with the reminder that he is a prisoner, whose freedom is governed by others and then writing a letter to Philemon about a slave who has become a Christian (more on this later).

Paul also gives his thanksgiving to God for his work in Philemon's life. Although the details are sparse, it is definitely clear that Philemon's change is due to the work of Jesus in his life. His life has been radically changed and he, himself (a master of slaves) serves a new Master, our Lord Jesus Christ. As a result of this change, Philemon uses his time, talents, treasures and possessions to minister to others and the sharing of the gospel.

This is what Christ's love does for us; it radically changes our perception of life. He loves us enough to die for us that we might be reunited with God the Father. This very fact is enough to alter anyone's outlook on life.

Do you need a change? A new outlook on life? Look no further.

Jesus is the answer!