When we consider our next exegetical preaching series, our minds seldom think of the tinier books—the minor prophets, or “the postcard epistles” (a.k.a. 2 John, 3 John, and Jude). But I want to challenge you to consider a relatively unpopular New Testament text. Here are three reasons why you should preach through Philemon.
1. Philemon models Christian forgiveness.
The primary theme of Philemon is forgiveness. While imprisoned in Rome, Paul was visited by a distressed Colossian pastor named Epaphras. The churches of the Lycus Valley are under attack by those who want to distort the gospel and dethrone the Lord Jesus Christ. In response, Paul pens a masterful letter, eviscerating false religion and exalting the King of kings. He sends a letter back to Colossae, carried in the hands of two men, Tychicus and Onesimus. But there’s a problem: Onesimus is a since-converted runaway slave of one of the Colossian members, Philemon, whom Paul knows personally. So, in writing to the churches, he is moved to write to his friend, Philemon, asking that he forgive Onesimus. This letter is Paul’s attempt at facilitating reconciliation through forgiveness.
After a standard greeting, Paul praises Philemon for his faithfulness in the Lord.
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