The gospel is the power of God to save and transform lives. The story of Onesimus is a wonderful example of this. The name Onesimus means “useful”, but Onesiumus was anything but that. Onesimus was a slave who ran away from his master Philemon after stealing some money from him. The punishment for this could have been quite severe. However, by the sovereign grace of God, Onesimus encountered Paul in Rome while in prison and was converted to Christianity. He received a new life in Christ and became very useful to God’s kingdom. He was even willing to return to Philemon.

Paul tactfully appeals to Philemon in several ways to welcome Onesimus back. His appeal reveals how Christians are to view each other. Our relationships are to be based on a sacrificial love that knows no boundaries. Onesimus had become like a son to Paul and was part of his very heart. Paul longed for Philemon to welcome Onesimus back not as a slave, but as an eternal brother in Christ. Paul was willing to pay whatever debt Onesimus owed. It was a wonderful demonstration of the grace of God.
Application: Father, thank you for changing me through the gospel. Help me to forgive others in the Lord and graciously welcome them.
One Word: Welcome your brother in the Lord