THE CHOICE. v.14 In this case, God comforts an aged prisoner, saves a bitter slave, and returns property to a Christian businessman in a far better condition than when it was lost. Paul suggested ("perhaps") there was a divine work occurring among them all that would fulfill a higher purpose than any of them could expect. Philemon was "dearly beloved," and Onesimus was a "brother beloved" by "our beloved brother Paul." The new relationship of master and slave has an added dimension. Now it was brother and brother in the Lord. A whole new motive for living and serving has replaced the old life.
The providential dealings of God in our lives should not surprise us, nor should they be overlooked or diminished in any way. The temporary bond of master and slave is no longer the only consideration. Now, they are brothers and sisters in God's family forever. Who are these people who seem bound together in this Christian relationship? There appears to be a love that unites them, which is more than mere companionship. Service for our Lord Jesus Christ is not forced. Paul gave Philemon several good reasons to forgive Onesimus. Still, the basic premise behind his decision must come from his love for God, the apostle Paul, and love for the repentant runaway.
Authority exists, but it is not enforced with a heavy-handed force. Despite being different, they confidently stay on the same course in their lives together. What do they share that allows them to maintain such a close Christian partnership? One works in the harvest field, enduring persecution and severe hardship. Some achieve success in the business field, while others undertake humble tasks. Yet, they hold mutual trust in one another and serve together without being asked.
How do they maintain the continuity of ongoing Christian fellowship? Love and grace are well demonstrated, along with a solid faith that doesn't waver; Christ is the common attraction, and each person knows Him personally. Their communication is not based on worldly ways but is seen in light of eternity. Those who are different are fundamentally the same and have experienced grace and love. The new nature God has given them is nourished with help from on high. Their hope is "built on nothing less than Jesus' blood and righteousness." Their commitment to each other and their Lord is that each knows God's forgiveness.
“Your consent.” Discipline and commitment to what Paul, who was in a position of authority, established reveal that Philemon was a man of high moral character. In these days of declining moral standards and resistance to divine authority, we are responsible for what we permit. The principles of holy living are not subject to human opinions because they are founded on the unchanging word of God.
The wisdom of our Lord Jesus Christ is available to us when we make choices, but it is not imposed on us. Children of God make choices and reap the “fruit” of their decisions, just as those who do not believe in Him. Heeding advice will protect us from current pain and, for unbelievers, from rejection by God in the future. A disciplined person will be godly and understand what is right and how to act. They will possess a spiritual appetite, and spiritual food will fulfill their spiritual hunger.
A wise person will consider both sides of a matter before making a decision. That is common sense, as there are two sides to every issue. Gather the facts. Listen to what both sides say and observe what they don’t mention. Reflect on the options of the problem with impartiality. Decide without bias or favoritism. This way, you won’t make a foolish mistake and feel embarrassed later when the truth is clear. A higher authority supersedes any consideration you make. To be like our Lord Jesus Christ is the highest calling one can have.
The purpose of life becomes real to us when we commit ourselves to the service of our Lord. Our spiritual and emotional lives come vibrantly alive, allowing us to see beyond the natural and normal toward the spiritual and eternal. Our existence here becomes an integral part of our eternity, rather than just a few short years. We experience eternal life when we take up our cross and follow our Lord. Everything we do carries an eternal perspective. Our values, decisions, and choices all shift in emphasis. Instead of living for immediate gains, our lives evolve into a component of our eternal consciousness and God-given commission.
Freewill. Everyone is privileged to do God’s will in ways that align with their abilities and willingness to give whatever is needed. When the motivation is love for God and His people, a willing heart emerges because fulfilling His desires is recognized as a privilege. Wholehearted and spontaneous obedience to the Lord brings joy to the giver and the Lord, who receives that response from the willing heart, and ultimately, everyone benefits.
Forgiveness and love come from people willing to do what they do for the Lord. They are motivated by love and generosity, not guilt. Doing what we know the Lord desires is a sign of gratitude and thankfulness. When the Spirit of God inspires the hearts of His people to engage in work or contribute to the well-being of others and the work of the Lord, a willingness arises from the heart.
Anything we do for the Lord and His glory alone is an act of worship. When our worship is directed towards the Lord, we will experience fullness and ample opportunities to meet needs. God grants us the wisdom to transcend our natural abilities. In our lives, we will contribute in extraordinary ways to God's work as we are able. There is no reason to compare our actions with those of others. No matter who we are or what we can do, God can inspire our hearts to use what we have and who we are for His purposes.