This post is Day 15 in a series of studies about “Philemon”. I strongly suggest you begin with the introduction to this study, please click here to read it.

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Philemon – Day 15

One translation of partner gives comrade in arms. That speaks to me of soldiers in an army. In this case The Army of The Lord. The Greek word used for partner in this verse is koinonia. It is often used in the Christian community about working together and sharing everything.

Philemon 17-18

So if you consider me a partner, welcome him as you would welcome me. If he has done you any wrong or owes you anything, charge it to me.

The Thought

What a generous offer this is. But it doesn’t really allow Philemon any way out. If he is running the Colossian church, then he must be a partner of Paul, with the same principles and the same long term vision.

One translation of partner gives comrade in arms. That speaks to me of soldiers in an army. In this case The Army of The Lord. The Greek word used for partner in this verse is “koinonia”, often used in the Christian community about working together and sharing everything.

If Philemon refused Paul’s request that would have been the end of their relationship and have a longterm effect on their home church.

Forgiveness and acceptance of some people can be difficult for all of us, depending on the circumstances. I can think of times in my life when I have said, “OK I can forgive, but it doesn’t mean I want to be friends!” In that case it is not total forgiveness, I understand, but sometimes it is difficult. The only way out is to pray for Jesus help. He gives us the ultimate message from the cross when He said Father forgive them, they do not know what they are doing (Luke 23:34).

Action

Ask yourself today how good you think you are at forgiving.

Read slowly and seriously Matthew 6:14 which ends Jesus’ teaching on prayer.

Think of others in the Bible who forgave, and remember that all the way through the entire Bible God is showing us how He forgives His people.

Dare to ask The Lord if there is anyone against whom you bear a grudge, then ask for His help in forgiving.

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