Bible Text: Philemon 8-22 | Pastor: Pastor Steve | Series: Engage: Do All In The Name Of The Lord Jesus

Philemon Is A Message About The Power Of The Gospel    To Transform All People

Philemon 8-9 That is why I am boldly asking a favor of you. I could demand it in the name of Christ because it is the right thing for you to do. But because of our love, I prefer simply to ask you. Consider this as a request from me—Paul, an old man and now also a prisoner for the sake of Christ Jesus.   
People Change
Philemon 10-12 I appeal to you to show kindness to my child, Onesimus. I became his father in the faith while here in prison. Onesimus hasn’t been of much use to you in the past, BUT NOW he is very useful to both of us. I am sending him back to you, and with him comes my own heart.

Paradigm Shift FROM Useless TO Useful
Our Core Values
We value our relationship with Jesus and one another

God created us to work out our struggles within the framework of a community
Jesus Transforms Us!
We are hindered in our capacity to affect change in our relationships but when God empowers the change all things are possible!
God’s Power Changes
The  Hearts And Minds And Souls Of All People

Transformation Requires Trusting God

Romans 12:2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.  
From BAD to GOOD
Philemon 13-16 It seems Onesimus ran away for a little while so that you could have him back forever. He is no longer like a slave to you. He is more than a slave, for he is a beloved brother, especially to me. Now he will mean much more to you, both as a man and as a brother in the Lord.   
Do The Right Thing
Philemon 17-20 So if you consider me your partner, welcome him as you would welcome me.  If he has wronged you in any way or owes you anything, charge it to me. I, Paul, Write This With My Own Hand: I Will Repay It. And I Won’t Mention That You Owe Me Your Very Soul!  Yes, my brother, please do me this favor for the Lord’s sake. Give me this encouragement in Christ.
Onesimus’ Story Is Our Story
Sin Separates Us: Onesimus had wronged Philemon

The Cross Unites Us: Paul was not part of Onesimus’ guilt

Sin Requires Payment From Us: The debt had to be paid.

Jesus Paid Our Debt For Us: Paul took on a debt that was not his

Jesus Saves And Reconciles Us: Paul wrote this letter to reconcile

(2 Cor 5:17-21; John 1:29; Ro 3:23; 5:8-9; Heb 4:15; 7:27; 9:26,28)

Every Person Has Worth And Value Because We Are All Created In The Image Of God

We are all called to be sons and daughters of the Most High God who is the King of kings and the Lord of lords!