The Character of Philemon

The Elephant in the Room

• The importance of measuring others within historic context.

• The importance of recognizing positive influence while recognizing human frailty.

I. Philemon Exemplified Faith

“I thank my God always when I remember you in my prayers, because I hear of your love and of the faith that you have toward the Lord Jesus and for all the saints,” (Philemon 4–5, ESV)

II. Philemon Exposed Faith

“and I pray that the sharing of your faith may become effective for the full knowledge of every good thing that is in us for the sake of Christ.” (Philemon 6, ESV)

III. Philemon Excited Faith

“For I have derived much joy and comfort from your love, my brother, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you.” (Philemon 7, ESV)

Questions:

1. What about Jesus do others see in you? If we asked three people at church what they thought of you, would Jesus come up as part of the answer?

2. What will you work on that makes others see Jesus in you?

3. How have you excited others about your relationship with Christ? What could you do?