“A Faith That Forgives”
Philemon 4-7
March 19, 2023
Main point: The book of Philemon is a living lesson on forgiveness. In verses 4-7, Paul prays for Philemon and gives praise for his spiritual character and capacity to forgive Onesimus.
I. A Love for Jesus
Verse 4-5a
II. A Love for God’s People
Verse 5b-6a
III. A Love for Christ’s Glory
Verse 6b-c
IV. A Love for Peace
Verse 7
Here are some books which may assist you in deeper study and application of the truths presented in today’s sermon. While the elders cannot endorse every concept presented in each book, we do believe these resources will be helpful in profitably thinking through today’s topic.
• Colossians & Philemon by N.T. Wright
• The Peacemaker by Ken Sande
• Communication and Conflict Resolution by Stuart Scott
• Forgive and Love Again by John Nieder and Thomas Thompson
• From Forgiven to Forgiving by Jay Adams
• Choosing Forgiveness by Nancy DeMoss Wolgemuth
Questions for Spiritual Growth
Our Cornerstone mission is To Know Christ and Make Him Known. Community Groups help us to live out our mission as we discuss the Scripture passage from the sermon, how to apply it, and pray for one another.
Why does Paul begin with prayer and praise for Philemon instead of ordering him to forgive Onesimus?
How is Paul’s prayer a model of first steps in conflict resolution?
Why is giving thanks, encouragement, and praise for other believers so important? What are some ways you can express these things to Christian brothers and sisters in your life?
How can conflict be a blessing in the believer’s life?
How does love for the Lord change a person’s capacity to forgive?
What would you say to a Christian who does not feel like forgiving another believer? What Scriptures would you take them to? What steps could you share with them to be a peacemaker?
What does it mean in verse 6 to have an effective faith?
How does practicing the truths of Scripture lead to greater spiritual maturity?
What should be our motivation for conflict resolution?