Thursday, October 29

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2020

"I always thank my God as I remember you in my prayers, because I hear about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints. I pray that you may be active in sharing your faith, so that you will have a full understanding of every good thing we have in Christ. Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brother, have refreshed the heart of the saints." (Philemon 4-7)


In his letter to Philemon, Paul urges his recipient to welcome back Onesimus, who had once been Philemon's servant. Having run away from Philemon, Onesimus subsequently received Christ and began working with Paul in his ministry. This letter, deftly written and indicative of Paul's personal persuasion, seeks reconciliation in what could be a tricky situation.

Notably, Philemon is also a Christ-follower and has apparently undertaken a fruitful ministry. Paul reasons that, if there were to be reconciliation in this situation, it will come through the shared brotherhood of Christ-followers, not through demands.

In this introductory section, Paul turns his attention to Philemon's faithful Gospel ministry. Motivated by "faith" and "love," Philemon has apparently been involved in "sharing your faith," which Paul anticipates to bring a "full understanding of every good thing we have in Christ."

That sixth verse has always impressed me for its simplicity but richness. As we seek to share our faith with others, either through introducing friends to Jesus or helping them to grow in Christ, we can't help but reflect on the life-giving truths of Scripture and be awed at God's amazing love for us. Indeed, the Gospel fans the flame of deeper faith and greater gratitude for all that God has done on our behalf. To Him be all glory, honor, and praise forever!

How have you experienced God's love more deeply as a result of sharing about it with others? In small group? With friends and family?


Lord God, thank You for giving us life through the shed blood of Christ. Thank You for drawing us to Yourself and deepening our understanding of Your love and grace. Strengthen us today to share our faith well and broadly. Give hope to a hurting, discouraged world through us, through the power of the Gospel. In Jesus's mighty Name, amen.


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