It Takes the Work of God - Philemon 15-20
Pastor John Talley
Part of Philemon
May 9, 2022

15 For this perhaps is why he was parted from you for a while, that you might have him back forever, 16 no longer as a bondservant but more than a bondservant, as a beloved brother–especially to me, but how much more to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord. 17 So if you consider me your partner, receive him as you would receive me. 18 If he has wronged you at all, or owes you anything, charge that to my account. 19 I, Paul, write this with my own hand: I will repay it–to say nothing of your owing me even your own self. 20 Yes, brother, I want some benefit from you in the Lord. Refresh my heart in Christ. —Philemon 15-20


Genuine restoration can only occur when

in the broken relationship.

I. Paul’s explanation of the work of God 15-16

  • A. It is a matter of providence 15a
  • B. It is a matter of permanence 15b
  • C. It is a matter of responsibility 16

We cannot

the other party in a broken relationship enter the process of reconciliation, but we are to remain to do so.

II. Paul’s recommendation based on the work of God 17

  • A. The basis – Paul’s relationship with Philemon
  • B. The recommendation – “receive him as you would me”

Our willingness to seek reconciliation is directly related to our belief in the

to bring about in the life of individuals.

III. Paul’s participation in the work of God 18-20

  • A. An example of imputation 18

    1. Requirement for restitution – Numbers 5:6-8

      6 “Speak to the people of Israel, When a man or woman commits any of the sins that people commit by breaking faith with the LORD, and that person realizes his guilt, 7 he shall confess his sin that he has committed. And he shall make full restitution for his wrong, adding a fifth to it and giving it to him to whom he did the wrong. 8 But if the man has no next of kin to whom restitution may be made for the wrong, the restitution for wrong shall go to the LORD for the priest, in addition to the ram of atonement with which atonement is made for him. —Numbers 5:6-8

    2. Paul, a picture of Christ – “charge that to my account”

  • B. A promise of Paul 19
    1. A promise to pay
    2. A reminder of the debt
  • C. A plea by Paul 20
    1. ”Benefit” – the verb form from Onesimus is derived
    2. A wordplay
      a. Paul asked for a benefit
      b. Paul makes a plea for refreshment

God’s commitment to work in broken relationships does not negate our

in seeking restoration and reconciliation.


There are no Small Group questions this week.