Philemon

Last night, New Year's Eve, had the pleasure of facilitating a Bible study in the book of Philemon. Two major themes emerged. The more obvious was the "appeal" approach that Paul uses in contrast to using his apostolic authority to command Philemon to do what would please God. cf. verses 8,9,10. The second is the unfolding of the close brotherly relationship that Paul and Philemon share. We read Paul praying for Philemon in verse 4, and of Philemon 's prayers for Paul in verse 22. We also see Paul's courage in going against the prevailing culture of slavery in the Roman Empire of his era urging Philemon to receive Onesimus as a brother in Christ rather than as a slave. May the Lord Jesus Christ abundantly bless all of my readers in this New Year!