Peter Barnes | Philemon 15-25
SERMON NOTES
NEW RELATIONSHIPS
(Philemon 15-25)
1. Christ changes all relationships.
– vv.15-17; Paul sees God’s hand in all things (Eph.1:11); this means that He is working for good (e.g. Gen.45:5)
– Gal.3:28; C. S. Lewis in his sermon The Weight of Glory: ‘There are no ordinary people. You have never talked to a mere mortal. Nations, cultures, arts, civilizations – these are mortal, and their life is to ours as the life of a gnat. But it is immortals whom we joke with, work with, marry, snub, and exploit – immortal horrors or everlasting splendours.’
2. A generous offer.
– vv.18-19a; in his own hand (Gal.6:11); slaves often stole (Tit.2:9-10)
– obligation of grace (1 Cor.9:16)
3. A delicate appeal.
– vv.12, 13, 17, 19-20, 21; William Hendriksen sees no hint to send Onesimus back to Paul, but surely that is precisely what Paul is doing,
– new relationships; gospel-motivated generosity; and tact.