A Message From God To Us From The Book of Philemon 

Forgiveness: Unlocking the Door to Reconciliation 

Things you should know about the book:

• Philemon was a slave owner who had a slave named Onesimus

• Onesimus ran away and met Paul, who introduced him to Jesus Christ.

• Paul sent Onesimus back to Philemon and asked for his forgiveness for stealing, which deserved punishment. Paul also risked charges of helping a runaway slave.

Philemon 1:4-7

Know it:

In Philemon 1:4-7, the key word is praiseworthy. Read the verses. What do you see is repeated?

Understand it:

The life of the believer should be praiseworthy, showing faith and love.

Live it:

In your marriage, live so that your spouse can praise you before others. This can only happens when you remember you do what you do for God.  

Philemon 1:8-16 

Know it:

Forgiveness is what Paul is interested in getting across to Philemon. Read the verses.

Understand it:

The basis of forgiveness is faith and love.

Live it:

Before you forgive the people at work or home, remember your faith in God and His love for you for all the mistakes you made.

Philemon 1:17-25

Know it:

Paul takes love to the highest level by taking on the debt of Philemon. Read the verses.

Understand it:

Forgiveness is removing debt.

Live it:

When you remove the debt, then you cannot bring it up again.