It Starts Small

 ²² Meanwhile, also prepare a guest room for me, since I hope that through your prayers I will be restored to you.

²³ Epaphras, my fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus, sends you greetings, and so do ²⁴ Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke, my coworkers.

²⁵ The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.

Philemon 22-25

Paul fervently yearned to visit Philemon in person, driven by the deep-rooted culture of hospitality that enveloped their community. It was utterly inconceivable to let a valiant missionary like Paul wander aimlessly through the town in search of shelter. This profound truth reveals the heartwarming essence of fellowship within the New Testament church. Believers were not just acquaintances; they were family, embodying that bond in every interaction. The terms “brother” and “sister” resonated with genuine affection, never mere labels.

How can you exuberantly show heartfelt hospitality to your spiritual family today in the vibrant landscape of the twenty-first century? Dig deep and jot down several specific ways that ignite your creativity. Focus on gestures and actions you haven’t yet embraced! Expand your horizons and let your imagination run wild as you craft beautiful experiences that strengthen these vital connections.

Closing greetings

Paul mentions five different teammates in his closing greetings. Each man was his fellow worker. Paul’s ministry team was dynamic. There were many types of people serving together. Each came from a different background and was blessed with different strengths and giftings.

• Epaphras stood valiantly as a fellow prisoner alongside Paul, enduring persecution for the sake of their unshakeable faith.
• Mark was once a deserter. He emerged as an indispensable ally to Paul. This proved that redemption and reconciliation can bloom even in the harshest conditions.
• Aristarchus, a steadfast companion, braved the chaos of Ephesus during the riot, showcasing unwavering loyalty amid turmoil (Acts 27:2).
• Luke was the brilliant author of the Gospel that bears his name. He was also a skilled physician. He journeyed with Paul. Luke offered both healing and hope as Paul faced the harrowing path to Rome.
• Demas was once a devoted member of Paul’s ministry team. Tragically, he chose to abandon the mission. He was lured by the empty allure of the world. This happened even as this poignant letter was penned (2 Timothy 4:10).

Closing benediction

Paul starts (verse 3) and closes his letter with a spiritual blessing.

³ Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Philemon 3

It is an appropriate benediction to mention the grace of the Lord. This connects to the theme of Philemon. This theme is about extending grace to Onesimus. This powerful theme reminds us of the profound impact that forgiveness and mercy can have on our relationships. It also influences our spiritual journey. Believers embody the grace shown by the Lord. We are called to reflect this divine compassion towards others. This is especially true for those who may have wronged us. The story of Philemon and Onesimus serves as a poignant example. Love can transcend past grievances. It fosters reconciliation and unity within our communities. By embracing this grace, we honor the Lord. We also create a pathway to healing and restoration in our lives. This act extends to the lives of those around us.

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Cross-References

• Acts 15:36-40
• 2 Timothy 4:10 

Discussion Questions

• What can we learn about hospitality?
• What do you know about each of Paul’s team mentioned in verse 24? (Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke).

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