The Example of Philemon

The Example of Philemon

"Let us therefore, as many as are perfect, have this attitude; and if in anything you have a different attitude, God will reveal that also to you; however, let us keep living by that same standard to which we have attained. Brethren, join in following my example, and observe those who walk according to the pattern you have in us."

(Philippians 3:15-17)

"Be imitators of me, just as I also am of Christ."

(1 Corinthians 11:1)

INTRO

Scripture not only gives us a pattern of doctrine to follow – a form of teaching

It gives us a pattern of living to follow as well

Do any of you find it hard to live up to the example that Christ set for us? Deity in the flesh? The perfect life? How about Paul? The inspired apostle…

While being more Christ-like should always be our goal – let’s look at maybe a more reachable example….Philemon

(vs 1) BELOVED

Used 62 times in the New Testament (mostly by Paul – “my beloved” – Paul loved the brethren) - Used 8 times in the gospels – 6 of those refer to Christ
Same word God used for “My beloved Son in whom I am well pleased” (Matthew 3:17)
Loved by others - Are you beloved by the brethren?
We are going to see why Paul would called Philemon BELOVED…

(vs 1) FELLOW WORKER

Paul uses this term to describe those that are working with him in the cause of Christ.
1 Corinthians 12 – the functioning of the body*

Each has a part to play
High school basketball – arm strapped down
1 Corinthians 12:18 – “God placed the members each one into the body AS HE DESIRED!”
The body is fitted and held together by the proper working of each individual part – Ephesians 4:16

We need workers…

Bible class teachers
Help supervising in education
Help with keeping track of finances
Help with running the PowerPoint system

What needs to be done – what do you see that needs to be done – DO IT!
Do your brothers and sisters in Christ see you as a fellow worker?

A RELUCTANT worker says – “They haven’t asked me to help”
A FELLOW worker says – “How can I help”
A RELUCTANT worker says – “If you can’t find anyone else let me know”
A FELLOW worker says – “I can help with that”
Do you need to track down a FELLOW worker?

(vs 5) LOVE AND FAITH IS KNOWN (for both the Lord and the saints)

"By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13:35)

Our love for one another should be evident not only to each other but to outsiders as well

What are we known for?

Being a great accountant or a excellent school teacher, or a top notch engineer
Can’t help but think of Brother Baker – he was know as one who loved the Lord and loved His church
Sometimes it is hard to love the saints…

(vs 7) LOVE PROVIDES JOY AND COMFORT TO OTHERS

I have experienced joy and comfort –

When Lynn was sick – placed one call- are you on someone’s list?
When Matthew had surgery
When I had surgery – someone was with Lynn
Receiving cards on your birthday or anniversary, etc…

When strangers come to town to attend the school?
All of these opportunities provide ways for you to be a FELLOW WORKER
Does your love provide comfort and joy to your brothers and sisters in Christ?

(vs 7) HEARTS OF THE SAINTS HAVE BEEN REFRESHED

This should be a house of refreshment! Encouragement!
"and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near." (Hebrews 10:24-25)
"Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear." (Ephesians 4:29)
Are you a source of refreshment to your brothers and sisters in Christ?

(vs 8-9) DOES NOT HAVE TO BE ORDERED TO DO WHAT IS PROPER*

Paul could trust him to do what was right – he didn’t have to order him
A FELLOW worker doesn’t have to be ordered – they volunteer
Jesus said “Father if You are willing take this cup from Me, yet not My will, but yours be done!” Luke 22:42
Biblical submission is about doing what you are asked to do not just what you agree with doing (Hebrews 13:17 – let them do this with joy and not with grief!)

The more we become like Philemon the more Christ-like we are!!!

CONCLUDE WITH VERSE 6

I pray that the fellowship of your faith may become effective through the knowledge of every good thing which is in you for Christ’s sake.