Philemon 1:8-9 “Wherefore, though I might be much bold in Christ to enjoin thee that which is convenient, Yet for love’s sake I rather beseech thee, being such an one as Paul the aged, and now also a prisoner of Jesus Christ.” In this statement, Paul points to the authority he has as an apostle to make certain demands of Philemon. He indicates that he could be very blunt or outspoken (see Strong’s definition for “bold”) in Christ. We see in many instances in Paul’s writings where he was just that; blunt and outspoken. Certainly, there are situations that require us to be outspoken in our faith in Jesus Christ. One such situation is in the face of those who call themselves Christian and yet preach to the world that there are other ways to God besides Jesus Christ. In this, brothers and sisters, we need to be bold. Even in our boldness, we need to hold fast to the love of Christ. However, we should never be afraid to openly declare the word of God tha...
Philemon 1:4-7 “I thank my God, making mention of thee always in my prayers, Hearing of thy love and faith, which thou hast toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all saints; That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus. For we have great joy and consolation in thy love, because the bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee, brother.” There are many wonderful principles set forth in Paul’s words to his fellow servant, Philemon. Notice the manner in which Paul expresses his relationship with God: “I thank my God…” As the years pass, I rejoice more and more in the very personal relationship that my God has blessed me to have with Him. His majesty is such that He does not become any less your God because I declare Him to be my God. He is no less my God (or Philemon’s) because Paul declared that He is his God. As our relationship with Him deepens, we give Him the pr...