Philemon: A Story of Hospitality Introduction
Romans 12:13 (NLT) When God’s people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality.
Definition of hospitality: The act of being friendly and welcoming to guests and visitors.
“Christian Hospitality is creating a space for others to encounter Jesus” -Pastor Jacob
The Prodigal Son
What does this look like in real life?
The Letter to Philemon
- Paul – The author of this letter.
- Philemon – The recipient of this letter.
- Onesimus – The subject of this letter.
Slavery in the Roman Empire
Philemon 1-15 (NLT)
Philemon 16 (NLT): ‘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.’
“No Longer”
- I am no longer worthy to be called your son (Luke 15:21 NLT)
- No longer do I call you servants… I have called you friends. (John 15:15 ESV)
- Death no longer has dominion over him. (Romans 6:9 ESV)
- We regard no one according to the flesh. Even though we once regarded Christ according to the flesh, we regard him thus no longer. (2 Corinthians 5:16 ESV)
- So you are no longer a slave, but a son, and if a son, then an heir through God. (Galatians 4:7 ESV)
Philemon 17 (NLT) ‘So if you consider me your partner, welcome him as you would welcome me.’
“The man baptized by Paul is no longer the man that was owned by Philemon.” David Daube
In practicing Christlike hospitality we continue God’s work of changing the status of slaves to sons and daughters.