Lesson Summary:

Paul appeals to Philemon to forgive and receive his runaway slave Onesimus.

Focus Passage: Philemon 1

Introduction to Philemon

Setting and Timeline

About the Author

Outline and Lesson Goal

Principles and Applications

I. Paul Acknowledges Philemon’s Faith (1:1-7)

Principle: True Faith is Visible in Acts of Love and Service for Others.
Application: How is your faith effectively ministering to the saints in the church of Jesus Christ? How is your faith visible to everyone?
Scripture Reference

For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.
Ephesians 2:10 (NASB)

II. Paul Appeals for Forgiveness for Onesimus (1:8-25)

Principle: God’s People Reflect His Love and Grace When they Forgive Others.
Application: Who do you need to forgive today? How can you demonstrate Christ’s love and grace? Could you be an agent of reconciliation today?
Scripture Reference

Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.
Ephesians 4:32 (NASB)