THE REASON. v.15 When a person becomes a child of God, there is a fundamental change so that he becomes more devoted and committed to labor "as unto the Lord." We have fellowship with others on the grounds of a "common faith." Paul used a bold approach when he said, "Receive him as myself." The Lord used similar words when He said, "He that receiveth Me receiveth Him that sent Me." We have been "Accepted in the Beloved" and should accept each other.
The Reason. We must look beyond our current circumstances and understand that God is working for our good, even when things appear to be unfavorable. The future will be different and better than before, as we see past the dark clouds and recognize that the sun is still shining. What we once perceived as a problem may be an open door to a brighter future and significant blessings.
Paul’s intention in sending Onesimus back to Philemon was not only to do what was right according to the Roman political system that operated under the power of slavery, but also to show both of them, and us, that Christians share a spiritual brotherhood. We accept one another freely. Consequently, we belong to the family of God and are members of the one body of Christ. One can be a slave while another is a slave owner, yet both can still be equals in Christ.
Christians may not hold the power to change a political system, but they can foster and transform relationships among people. The Gospel brings about change in individuals and seeks to convert sinners and wrongdoers into saints and righteous citizens. There are, of course, external differences due to the locations and circumstances in which events occurred. However, the spiritual principles are still available for our learning and admonition.
Past events can teach us how to avoid what is bad and promote what is good. The preachers of the past, like Paul, who proclaimed the messages of the Lord, laid the foundations of history for our instruction. Those early representatives of the Lord were devoted to their service to God, willing to risk everything they had, even their lives, to confront the people of their time with the word of God. This need remains unchanged today. We cannot ignore the consequences of sin and rebellion occurring now, which are eroding the moral fabric of our nation, the ethical behavior of its citizens, and the moral leadership of those in positions of authority in our governments.
Paul understood that he was tasked with representing the Sovereign of the universe. This responsibility added a sense of urgency to his correspondence with Philemon. Although he could not control whether the recipients obeyed, Paul recognized the importance of conveying the Lord's message about forgiveness and reconciliation, which is fundamental in the kingdom of God. This urgency motivated him to act as the Lord’s messenger, as Haggai described. Ultimately, the decision to obey rested not with the messenger but with the listeners.
The attitudes and actions of blessed people like us are not hidden in any way from the holy God with whom we have to do. It is wise for us to ask ourselves, “To what degree do I want to live for the Lord? How far am I willing to go in obedience to Him? How seriously do I want to sanctify the Lord God in my heart so that I will not sin against Him?” Our Owner is the Lord Jesus Christ, who has purchased us with His own blood. Our Lord has made full provision for all we need to maintain a close, happy relationship with Him and with each other.
Our Lord is willing to forgive those who confront their own sin appropriately. Seeing ourselves and our sin as our righteous, holy God sees it should awaken our consciences. An awakened conscience doesn’t compare its sins to those of others and think it is not too bad; it acknowledges the responsibility that there is absolutely no justification for sin and addresses it. All sin is against God and must be addressed by holy justice and judgment, either by me through confessing and forsaking it, or by God if I don’t.
The meekness and lowliness of our Lord serve as examples for us. Power under control represents meekness; mind and heart under control signify lowliness, which will be recognized and accepted by those who possess no pretensions. The apostle's heart remained open to Philemon and Onesimus with love. He expressed his thoughts frankly, with sincerity, forming a fellowship with all parties involved. Openness removes barriers, helps avoid potential hindrances to fellowship, and provides a foundation for reconciliation when needed. Paul’s openness effectively addressed the barriers that could keep them separated.
It is hard to explain how God has chosen to bless what He has placed in my heart, not done under duress but prompted by His grace. Knowing that He has used this weak mortal man to bring blessings to others is a privilege. Those things done for the glory of God alone can and will be used. I can't worry too much about the impact on those who doubt or mock. Love communicates what needs to be said in a way that effectively removes doubt or second-guessing. It is not a sign of "lovelessness" when one seeks to correct what is wrong in those he genuinely cares for. Love allows one to recognize the challenges another person faces, which one may not be aware of, and seeks to change any behaviors or attitudes that perpetuate this. Affection and service strengthen through the cooperation of equals who witness, work, and worship in harmony and fellowship. Breaking down barriers does not imply weakness; rather, it places power under control—the control of divine intention. We must move forward with a sense of urgency to address the demands of our differences. Receive. There is no template to follow except to be guided by the Spirit and the word of God to do what is appropriate for each matter and person. We serve a living Savior who commissions us to know and do His will. We have been sealed as belonging to Him, are known by name to Him, may be rewarded by Him, and love to worship Him in fellowship with the Lord’s people. If He received us, we should receive those He intends to be with us.
Most of us live ordinary lives and can learn simple lessons from things that cross our paths daily. When we receive those who, like us, make mistakes, confess and forsake them, and correct whatever led us to do them in the first place, we can succeed in life. Be wise enough to give God all the glory because of His mercy toward us. When given a place of authority and leadership, maintain an evident meekness. When changes can be made to improve things for others and yourself, make them quietly without many comments or commotion. Let God be glorified in all we do or say in our ordinary lives.
Consulting with others involved or affected by what we plan is very important. Involved people have a right to know what we intend to do. They may not understand everything it means to us to do a specific thing, but they have the right to make comments and suggestions. Other people have their issues that we must deal with and consider. They need to be consulted about what we plan and how our plans fit their needs and plans. It may be surprising how much insight others can give us about the whole matter by providing a wider picture of what is to come. Receiving Onesimus would bless Philemon and the church, which was Paul’s reasoning.