• Philemon 1
  • “I rather appeal to you” (Philemon 1:9
    • Paul appealed to Philemon rather than using his authority to order him. Sometimes polite requests are more effective than direct commands.
    • I Peter 5:2-3 - This applies to elders as well.
    • Colossians 3:12-13 - We should stimulate each other to good works.
  • “Onesimus … is useful” (Philemon 1:10-11
    • Colossians 4:7-9
    • Are we useless or useful to God?
    • Whatever our station in life, we can be useful in the work of Christ!
  • “More than a slave, a beloved brother” (Philemon 1:16
    • Ephesians 6:5-9 - God regulated slavery so that it was not an abusive relationship.
    • I Corinthians 12:13 - There is unity in Christ, regardless of nationality or station in life.
    • Let us be united as brothers and sisters in Christ.
    • I Corinthians 8:10-11 - I must take my brother or sister into account when I decide what to do.