“Not now as a servant, but above a servant, a brother beloved, specially to me, but how much more unto thee, both in the flesh, and in the Lord?” (Philemon 1:16).
TEXT — Philemon 1:15-25
Message
The conversion of Francis of Assisi, Italy, provides an instructive template for transformation through the power of the gospel. Francis of Assisi lived between the 12th and 13th century AD. As a young man, he became very influential and wealthy. However, he underwent a dramatic conversion after encountering a leper and hearing the call of Christ to rebuild His church. Interestingly and instructively, Francis renounced his material wealth and decided to embrace a life of modesty and poverty. He thereafter dedicated himself to serving the poor and the marginalized in his society. He was very generous and hospitable, spending his resources for the betterment of the poor and vulnerable in society. Historians and writers conclude that the only explanation for his transformation was the power of the gospel which produced in him humility, selflessness, and love, helping him to live a life that fostered unity and community development.
Paul the apostle, Philemon, and Onesimus exhibit similar virtues as revealed in the passage. Their lives demonstrate the power of transformation which produces love, reconciliation, mutual respect, and unity in the church and the community at large. Apostle Paul addresses the issue of Onesimus, a runaway slave who had become a Christian. He confidently affirms that Onesimus is now a transformed person with clear evidence of genuine conversion.
This clearly demonstrates what takes place when an individual encounters Christ. Genuine conversion will show forth in the way we demonstrate humility and love, and promote mutual respect and unity among the brethren. Salvation is a leveller that brings together all classes of people irrespective of social status, educational attainment, or economic net worth. Whether master or servant, rich or poor, male or female, young or old, all have the same access to the commonwealth of God’s kingdom.
There is no basis for arrogance, pride, and self-aggrandizement in the church of God. Rather, we should seek to promote love, peace, and unity among one another in the church. Where we have hurt any, let us humbly and sincerely admit our fault, and ask for forgiveness. And where we have been offended and feel hurt, let us be gracious to forgive and reconcile with others.
Thought for the day
There is no space for ill in a room occupied by love!
Listed among “500 most powerful people on the planet” by the Foreign Policy magazine in 2013, Pastor (Dr.) William F. Kumuyi is the founder and General Superintendent of the Deeper Christian Life Ministry (DCLM) headquartered in Lagos, Nigeria. DCLM started in 1973 as a 15-member Bible study group right in Kumuyi’s apartment at University of Lagos where he was a lecturer. His revolutionary Bible teaching on personal holiness and commitment to evangelism soon gained so much traction and resulted in a widespread revival.
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