GCXC Philemon Bible Study
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· 7 viewsCross country and Track and Field Bible study for the Grace men's team
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Introduction and Background Information
Introduction and Background Information
Before we break off, I want to share three introductory pieces of information that will be helpful in understanding Paul’s letter to Philemon.
A. Time and Setting - The Letter takes place around the time that Paul is in Prison around 62 A.D
B. Purpose - While Paul was under house arrest in Rome, he somehow encountered a runway slave from Colossae named Onesimus. Onesimus was led to Christ through Paul, and Paul became a spiritual Father to him. Eventually, Paul became aware that the slave owner Onesimus ran away from was one his close friends who was helping lead a church in Colossae, and his name was Philemon. As a result, Paul sends Onesimus back to Philemon with this letter in hand that we are about to read.
C. Literary Style - In our last Bible Study , Kyle talked about the uniqueness of Galatians with how that book doesn’t follow Paul’s normal flow of thought. However , in this letter follows that structure with Paul’s..
Greeting in v. 1-3
The thanksgiving and prayers in v. 4-7
The main body of the letter in v. 8-22
Closing Benediction in v. 23-25
Study Questions
Read Philemon and spend a few minutes in silence thinking over the content of the letter. (20 minutes)
What does the introductory greeting and the closing comments reveal about Paul’s relationship with Philemon?
(Not only are they ministers together, but they are beloved gospel workers who are acquainted with each others colleagues and loved ones.)
2. As Paul does to Philemon, what effect does informing someone that you thank God for them and are praying for them have on a person?
(It’s an encouragement, it breathes life into an unmotivated or hurting soul.)
3. What is the significance behind Paul choosing to begin verse eight with talking about his reputation and his authority?
(In order that his message of love through reconciliation might be encouraged in loving obedience rather than forced.)
4. According to Roman conventional thought of the day, Philemon had the legal privilege to have Onesimus publically punished and executed. Instead, Paul encourages Philemon to “receive him as you would receive me.” Why should Philemon obey? What is accomplished if Philemon chooses to forgive him and treat him well?
(God would be glorified. The reconciling power of the gospel would be made manifest in Philemon’s life. A man would be forgiven and extended mercy and grace instead of just punishment.)
5. What does Philemon’s forgiveness and reconciliation with his former slave Onesimus point back to in earlier in the New Testament?
(the reconciling work of Jesus between us and God.)
6. In verse 20, the same word “refreshed” again. What do you think Paul means when he uses the term “that my heart may be refreshed in Christ”?
(That one can evidently see the power of the Gospel transforming and shaping the lives of the ones whom it affects.)
Main ideas behind Philemon
The reconciling power of Jesus between us and and God manifests within us to reconcile with others
Application
Become aware of our neediness for forgiveness
We, like Onesimus need to become aware of our need for forgiveness in Christ. It is in only in a state of destitution that we will receive forgiveness and receive the gift of eternal life.
Just imagine how Onesimus felt as he stood before Philemon?
Read from devotional today.
How can we do this. Ask yourself and reflect on how you view yourself in relationship to God. You may describe it as a “Blessed life”. I know I would, just look at me. I’m living in one of the only free country, going to school on a scholarship, and I have the joy of getting an education and having deep meaningful friendships.
But shouldn’t we also view ourselves as poor before God? Have we come to the realization of our separation from God because of our sin, and our desperate need for his forgiveness
We should forgive others for wronging us
2. Seek to e