Articles
Let Brotherly Love Abide
One of the greatest blessings God has given Christians here on earth is the church. How incredible it is that we can gather with people who share our faith, who love the Lord and one another! People of the world miss out on the benefits of this organization designed by God. However, as brothers and sisters in Christ, we are not without fault. At times we experience difficulties caused by error and sin, and sometimes problems simply result from a clash of personalities. In Paul’s letter to Philemon, we read of a touchy situation. A slave of Philemon’s house, Onesimus, had run away. While away, Onesimus met up with Paul and was converted. The point of the epistle is in verse 17 when Paul says, “If you consider me your partner, receive him as you would receive me.” Could you imagine the difficulty of such a state of affairs? Between the three parties involved in this letter (Paul the writer, Philemon the recipient, and Onesimus the slave), there was potential for quite a problem to arise. However, conflict was avoided because of the character of these men and how the problem was addressed. From this short letter, we can learn a great deal about dealing with trying circumstances and how to receive a new convert who may have previously wronged us.
Philemon’s Character. It is obvious by how Paul addresses Philemon that he was indeed a good man. He was addressed as “our beloved fellow worker” in verse 1. Not only was Philemon a fellow worker with Paul, but he was a cause of thanks in Paul’s prayers because of his “love and of the faith that [he had] toward the Lord Jesus and for all the saints” (Philemon 4-5). He was also a source of joy and comfort for Paul, and one who refreshed the hearts of the saints (7). We all know people like this -- people who have a good family, are hard workers for the Lord, and bring joy to Christians. However, we see that it is possible for even the godliest people to struggle in difficult situations. Consider Philemon’s predicament: his servant had run away. He had been disrespected and had lost property. Philemon had every right to be angry with Onesimus. However, based on his character, he likely handled the situation appropriately. In fact, Paul was confident he would (21). What a good example of how godly character accepts critique and correction, even when it is preventative! How do we respond to correction or suggestions from our brethren?
Paul’s Address. Paul exhorted the Colossians to “let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person” (Colossians 4:6). Notice the kind, tactful way Paul addressed Philemon. As stated before, he was likely upset about his runaway servant. Paul understood this, and he wrote this letter in an understanding, disarming tone in order to effectively mediate on behalf of Onesimus. He began by expressing his deep appreciation for Philemon. It was obvious that this man had done good, even for Paul! This was not flattery: rather, it was an expression of sincere appreciation for a brother dealing with a challenge. When we perceive trials in our brother’s life, do we approach him with an iron fist, or do we come gently -- expressing our concern from a sincere heart? Paul did not command Philemon to take back this servant, who was now his brother. Rather, “for love’s sake I prefer to appeal to you...” (8-9). Love must always be our motive for reconciling conflict with our brethren, and love will guide our demeanor. Paul also demonstrated his genuine care and concern for Onesimus, who was now useful, and very dear to him (11-12). We need to do better about demonstrating our love for new converts as well as to our brethren. Although Paul desired for Onesimus to stay with him, he knew that the right thing had to be done: he had to send him back. In every situation, no matter how emotionally connected we are, the right thing must be done.
Onesimus’ Change. Onesimus is the reason this letter was written. He was no doubt unprofitable by running away from his master. Before we look down our noses at him, we must consider all the times we have been useless to our Father, and remember the times we have turned away from him. However, we see that he was converted and became very useful to Paul, Philemon, and the Lord. Even though he was a changed man, a joint heir with Christ and a brother to Paul and Philemon, he still had to face the consequences of his previous actions, and had to go back to Philemon. When we repent of sin, we are not always relieved of the physical consequences to our action. If you rob a bank and then repent, you still have to return the money and will likely face time in jail. Similarly, Onesimus had to own up to his mistakes and deal with them. Do you see how must trouble sin causes?
Conflict is never easy. Whether we plead with a brother to quit sinning, or simply have a difference in opinion on how things should be done, we must always strive for peaceful reconciliation in accordance with the will of the Lord. We must live godly lives; we must always speak tactfully, delicately, and kindly with our brethren; and we must learn to forgive the “runaway slaves”. The words of Paul in Romans 12:9-21 are relevant here. We should “outdo one another in showing honor” (10). And remember: “If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all men” (18).
