Paul wrote this letter to his friend, Philemon. Although the Scriptures do not tell us how Paul and Philemon met, it does tell us that Philemon became a follower of Jesus Christ through Paul’s ministry. According to the custom in those days, Philemon opened his home to fellow believers to provide a place for corporate worship. Many commentators believe that Philemon served as the pastor to this group of believers.
In verses 4 through 7 and verses 20 and 21, Paul revealed a great deal about Philemon’s character. Philemon’s hospitality toward his fellow believers obviously extended beyond the norm. Paul commends him for it and relies on Philemon’s tenderness for all saints to pave the way for the request he made on Onesimus’ behalf.
Philemon’s slave, Onesimus, robbed him and fled to Rome. Again, the Scriptures omit the circumstance of their meeting, but Onesimus encountered Paul. Like his master, Onesimus understood and received salvation through Paul’s words. Paul wanted to keep Onesimus with him, but refused to do so without Philemon’s knowledge and permission.
To read the lessons on forgiveness click on the word Philemon.
Beginning with Jesus' ascension and melding into the filling of His followers with the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, Luke's account of the first church marks the trials and victories of the believers. Peter becomes the spokesman and the church is added to by thousands on a daily basis. From the martyr of Stephen to Paul's conversion and ministry, this book is filled with adventure, excitement, and lessons on faithfulness that every Christian needs to study.
To read the lessons on the first church click on the word Acts.
Even without personal hardships and trials, the world as a whole looks extremely empty and hopeless. Despair flashes in our faces each time we turn on the TV or internet. Wars, diseases, floods, earthquakes, and inflation threaten our stability.
Wait a minute! That sounds familiar. Prophecies in Revelation predict such times as these just before the LORD’s return. REJOICE! Be exceedingly glad. We are privileged to witness the fulfilling of God’s promises.
The book of Revelation is Jesus’ Revelation to the world given to John as an encouragement as well as a warning of what is to come. To study this amazing account of the end times and our glorious hope in Jesus click the word Revelation.
Each page of the Bible reveals a facet of God’s character. Each individual mentioned mirrors an aspect of God, which He desires us to grasp and cherish.
What is the nature God has given to us? We were created in His image to reproduce His love in all our relationships.
What is the path God has set before us? Our course is to follow Him, accept His offer of salvation through Jesus Christ, and to exalt His name above all others.
When we study the Bible to find out who we are, we miss the most valuable lesson in self-discovery. We cannot know who we are until we know who the Creator is. The only possible way to please God is to know Him and to accept Jesus Christ.