Faith Focus

Greetings friends,

I ask that as we begin our spiritual journey together we begin to take some time daily (if you are not already) to read the Scripture and pray. I thought it would be beneficial for us to focus on the same passage of Scripture for the week. This week, we will focus on Sunday’s texts (See below). If you were not present in worship on Sunday and have not yet watched it, I encourage you to do so. The Scripture used on Sunday was Philemon- the “whole book” (which is really a short letter with just 25 verses). Though very short compared to most other letters in the Bible, this is closer in length to average ancient letters and would have required only a single sheet of papyrus. Paul is writing from prison, and though there is some disagreement among scholars as to where he is imprisoned, most believe it to be in Rome at about AD 60. This letter is being sent from Paul to Philemon and the members of the house church at Colossae. Though it carries a specific message for Philemon, it was customary that the letter would be read aloud to the entire gathered church community. The letter is sent on behalf of Philemon’s runaway slave, Onesimus. Paul urges not only mercy for his escaped slave, but strongly encourages the countercultural idea that he should be released on the basis of Christian love. Paul suggests that Onesimus should be freed, and allowed to continue in ministry with Paul. 

Format-this is a repeat from every week, and will be consistently present for anyone new and as a reminder for all. It is listed at the bottom for review and for anyone who is new to this exercise. Please remember that it is a suggestion. There is no pressure to do it in the format suggested, to do everything on the days that are listed, or to even to answer all the questions. Allow the Holy Spirit to lead you. If one question takes up the time because you are moved in your spirit, then stay with it. The idea of this it to spend some intentional time with the Scriptures, in the presence of God, and in prayer and reflection- in whatever way that works for you!

Scripture: Philemon (NIV)

1 Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus, and Timothy our brother, 

To Philemon our dear friend and fellow worker— 2 also to Apphia our sister and Archippus our fellow soldier—and to the church that meets in your home:

3 Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

4 I always thank my God as I remember you in my prayers, 5 because I hear about your love for all his holy people and your faith in the Lord Jesus. 6 I pray that your partnership with us in the faith may be effective in deepening your understanding of every good thing we share for the sake of Christ. 7 Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the Lord’s people.

8 Therefore, although in Christ I could be bold and order you to do what you ought to do, 9 yet I prefer to appeal to you on the basis of love. It is as none other than Paul—an old man and now also a prisoner of Christ Jesus— 10 that I appeal to you for my son Onesimus, who became my son while I was in chains. 11 Formerly he was useless to you, but now he has become useful both to you and to me.

12 I am sending him—who is my very heart—back to you. 13 I would have liked to keep him with me so that he could take your place in helping me while I am in chains for the gospel. 14 But I did not want to do anything without your consent, so that any favor you do would not seem forced but would be voluntary. 15 Perhaps the reason he was separated from you for a little while was that you might have him back forever— 16 no longer as a slave, but better than a slave, as a dear brother. He is very dear to me but even dearer to you, both as a fellow man and as a brother in the Lord.

17 So if you consider me a partner, welcome him as you would welcome me. 18 If he has done you any wrong or owes you anything, charge it to me. 19 I, Paul, am writing this with my own hand. I will pay it back—not to mention that you owe me your very self. 20 I do wish, brother, that I may have some benefit from you in the Lord; refresh my heart in Christ. 21 Confident of your obedience, I write to you, knowing that you will do even more than I ask.

22 And one thing more: Prepare a guest room for me, because I hope to be restored to you in answer to your prayers.

23 Epaphras, my fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus, sends you greetings. 24 And so do Mark, Aristarchus, Demas and Luke, my fellow workers.

25 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.

Other Scriptures referenced:

Colossians 4:9a,  “He is coming with Onesimus, our faithful and dear brother, who is one of you. “

Exodus– God delivering the Israelites from slavery.

DAILY QUIET TIME WITH GOD:

Monday: v.1 “Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus”- beginning a letter by identifying the sender and recipient was standard practice in the ancient world, and can be seen in all of Paul’s letters. Although Paul was an Apostle, he chose to leave off his title for a more personal greeting. Most scholars believe Paul was imprisoned in Rome at this time (Acts 28:30-31). However, Paul did not consider himself a prisoner of Rome, but rather a prisoner of Christ Jesus. Paul, whose name had been Saul of Tarsus, had been a Pharisee who persecuted Christians. He would hunt down Christians to arrest them, believing they were a threat to the Jewish faith. He even stood by in approval while Steven was martyred by being stoned to death. He was converted on the road to Damascus, with a personal encounter with Jesus (Acts 9:1-19, 22:6-21, 26:12-18). Through his conversion, Saul became Paul, completely transformed, not only in name but in life. In Ephesians 3:1 he wrote that he was a “prisoner of Christ Jesus for the sake of you Gentiles”- that the call of the mission of Christ Jesus was so strong that he was a “prisoner,” bound by it and to it. Usually “prisoner” brings up negative thoughts, but here Paul uses it as a form of humility, an acceptance of servanthood, and a commitment to never be released. What other messages about relationship with Christ does his use of “prisoner” reveal to you? When you think about Paul’s choice of words, “prisoner of Christ Jesus,” what images, ideas, or feelings does it bring up in you? How does the term “prisoner of Christ Jesus” differ in the way it persuades your life, versus “prisoner of” anything else- the world, sin, etc. Do you believe the term “prisoner” instead of “follower” changes anything? Assuming that being a “prisoner of Christ Jesus” (in a good way) was something to strive for and live into, what changes would you need to make in your thoughts and actions? What is the Holy Spirit leading you to? Ask God for revelation and clarification. At the same time, Paul was an actual prisoner- this time in Rome, and at other times elsewhere. He received much suffering for his faith, for his willingness to preach the Gospel of Christ. Most of us have little experience, or even comprehension, of the hardships, persecutions, and sufferings of Christians throughout history, and even around the world today. There are people being imprisoned, sometimes killed, for their faith even today. What does that say about Paul, and all those who are enduring such persecutions for their faith? Take a moment and reflect upon those characteristics. Pray, and ask God if there are areas where you need to grow. Pray for our brothers and sisters that are experiencing this.  

“And Timothy our brother”- in Acts 16:1 we learn that Timothy was from Ephesus, and whose mother was a Jewish believer in Christ and whose father was a Greek Gentile. All the believers spoke well of him, so Paul took him along on his evangelism missionary journeys, circumcising him before he went. Timothy went on to minister in Ephesus, and Paul wrote 1 & 2 Timothy to him to address some of the issues in the churches there. He is mentioned often in the Bible. Tradition has Timothy as the first Christian bishop of Ephesus. Paul refers to him as “our brother,” revealing the relational connection not only between them, but between all believers. We are the family of God, brothers and sisters in Christ. Timothy was imprisoned along with Paul for the sake of the Gospel. For our brothers and sisters in Christ, consider how you can be alongside them, with support, encouragement, strength, and much prayer. *Tradition states that Onesimus followed Timothy as bishop over Ephesus!

v.1b-2a “To Philemon our dear friend and fellow worker- also to Apphia our sister and Archippus our fellow soldier- and to the church that meets in your home”- As noted on the first page of our Faith Focus, this letter (and all New Testament letters) was written to a house church, and would’ve been read aloud to the entire gathered church community. In spite of it being a message primarily for Philemon concerning Onisemus, it was also a message for all believers to hear and understand. Note the descriptions, “dear friend,” “fellow worker,” “our sister,” “our fellow soldier.” These are terms of endearment and encouragement that also reinforce the relationship of believers as well as the imagery of the reality of the mission, “fellow soldier.” Though often avoided today, the imagery of believers being in a battle was throughout the New Testament, and is written into many old hymns, such as “Onward, Christian Soldiers,” “Stand Up, Stand Up for Jesus,” and “For All the Saints.” What do you believe is the battle written about in Scripture, and in so many hymns and other Christian songs? How does that make you feel? Do you avoid battle/war/soldier imagery when thinking about or describing your faith, and if so, why? How does being part of a battle for Christ reconcile with Christ’s call for peace and love? In what way do they work together? We are, minimally, in a spiritual battle against the forces of darkness. How does that make you feel? Note too that it says “our fellow soldier”- we are not alone as we also have our fellow brothers and sisters battling alongside us. Consider how believers in the battle have the armor of God (Ephesians 6). We can stand strong in the “battle,” as “soldiers,” victorious through Christ. Give thanks to God!

Tuesday: v.3 “Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ”- “grace” is the abundant, overwhelming, empowering, unmerited favor and love of God- a blessing brought through Jesus Christ. “Peace” is eiréné in Greek, the same as shalom in Hebrew, often used as both a greeting and farewell, seeking the whole wellness of a person. Grace and peace are Paul’s customary greeting found in each one of his letters. How would it make you feel if someone greeted you this way? What would it say about the person giving the greeting? What’s the underlying characteristic, and what is the intention? What does it say about how we should greet others? “From God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ”- yes! We must never forget the true source of grace and peace! “Our Father”- our = all believers, of the “Father,”- not a male gender, but the Godhead of the Trinity. And “the Lord Jesus Christ” who is THE (not A) Savior, the Christ, who is Lord- as in over us, leading us, and we are his servants who follow. Take a moment and reflect upon this, and thank Almighty God, Creator of the universe, for loving, saving, and leading you. If you find any wrestling within about this, ask God about it in prayer. Listen, and be filled with God’s love. V.4-5 “I always thank my God as I remember you in my prayers, because I hear about your love for all his holy people and your faith in the Lord Jesus”- it is good to always be thanking God as we remember others, thanking God for love shared and for faith as believers in Christ. Take a moment and do just that. We so often can find ourselves just praying for everyone in trouble, or thanking God for things in our own life, but it is good to also be lifting up people who are striving to live a life of faith and love. Consider now, how much faith and love shared for God’s “holy people,” (other believers) is being lived out by you. Consider all of us, all believers, living in a way of faith and love that brought people to thank God for us every time they remember us. Ask God where you may need to grow, and pay attention to anything that God brings to mind. V.6 “I pray that your partnership with us in the faith may be effective in deepening your understanding of every good thing we share for the sake of Christ.” The partnership between believers, our lives being prayed for, supported, and encouraged. The word “partnership” is sometimes translated as “fellowship.” In the Greek it is koinónia, and describes sharing in, communion with one another, a spiritual fellowship. One of the ways that we grow in Christ is through the fellowship with believers, sharing our lives together. V.7 “Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the Lord’s people”- notice that Paul takes his message from broad based to singular- toward Philemon, who is believed to be the leader of the house church. Paul is mentioning love again, which is vital for the argument he will raise, as well as “refreshed the hearts of the Lord’s people.” Love can do that- love can refresh hearts that are weary, downcast, and hurting. Have you ever experienced that- when you were hurting in some way and someone shared love and you experienced “refreshing”? What were the details? Why do you believe they did that? Have you ever done that for someone else? Be watchful, and share love freely. There are many hurting and weary people who could use some refreshing. If you need this kind of refreshing, ask God for it. Be open and receptive- God may bring your refreshing through someone else. Ask God also, to be mindful and empowered to share love with others in this way. Ask for opportunity, and when it comes, step boldly into it. Sharing love- it’s one of the greatest gifts through Jesus Christ that we can give. Thank God for his great love!

Wednesday: v.8-9a “Therefore, although in Christ I could be bold and order you to do what you ought to do, yet I prefer to appeal to you on the basis of love”- Paul, as an Apostle, had the right and authority to play the “apostle card” and command that Philemon do what he would be asked. But doing something by commanding isn’t nearly as effective as understanding the root reasons, and having the love of Christ be the foundation and guide. I love the phrase, “I prefer to appeal to you on the basis of love”- that love through Christ would be the understanding and driving force. It is a message for all believers as well- God’s love within us as our understanding and driving force, the foundation and guide for all that we do. Imagine having love through Jesus Christ as the overarching factor in every decision you make. Sometimes love is not all warm and mushy, and sometimes it leads to doing things we don’t want to do. There’s all different ways of love, and so we ask God to reveal his love and way, and let the love of Christ lead the way. Take a moment and ask God if there is some decision or situation that needs the undergirding of love. If God brings something to mind, spend time with God about it, discerning, becoming empowered, becoming filled with the love of Christ that will lead the way. V.9b-10 “It is none other than Paul- an old man and now also a prisoner of Christ Jesus- that I appeal to you for my son Onesimus, who became my son while I was in chains”- Paul continues his reminder of being a prisoner, that he is in chains, to draw a parallel to Onesimus who was the runaway slave of Philemon. Paul’s situation inspires empathy, which is one of the outgrowths of love. Though empathetic to Paul, Philemon still had slaves. There can sometimes be a disconnect when we are so used to something that we don’t stop to examine. Often things or people can be too close, too familiar, and we need the power of the Holy Spirit and the community of believers to see, hear, think, and feel with the love and empathy of Christ. We are then enabled to discern, and respond the way God would have us. Have you ever experienced a time when you were too close to see/hear/think/feel something and through God and others were led to a different understanding and response? “My son Onesimus, who became my son while I was in chains”- that Onesimus became a believer in Jesus Christ and had become as close as a son to the Apostle Paul. In Christian community we are to have not only brothers and sisters in Christ, but spiritual sons and daughters, as well as spiritual mothers and fathers- those whom we mentor, and those who mentor us. V.11 “Formerly he was useless to you, but now he has become useful both to you and to me”- Paul is using a play on words because the name Onesimus literally means “useful.” It is assumed then, that Philemon had labeled Onesimus as useless prior to his escape- the derogatory and demeaning labeling of another that should not happen- especially by believers! Paul is calling it out with his word play, with the hope that the Holy Spirit would convict Philemon’s spirit through it, especially having it read aloud in community. Think about times when something was said about you, or you said something about another. There’s likely pain carried by the person receiving those words, but also darkness for the person spewing them. Words we use matter- they can either lift up or strike down. Use words carefully, fueled with the love of Christ. Ask God to make you more aware of the words you use and the effects those words have on others. Remember too, that the words of others never change who you are in Christ- beloved child of God, co-heir with Christ. In this case, it’s more than a matter of name-calling. Paul is noting that through Christ, Onesimus has been made “useful,” has worth, is living into his true identity. V.12 “I am sending him- who is my very heart- back to you”- there was a Roman law that came from ancient Greek culture that stated that an escaped slave could receive sanctuary, safety, at an “altar”- which could even be the hearth of a private home- and the head of the household would be responsible to keep them safe and protected while also trying to persuade the slave to return to the former master. Paul had been protecting, and must have persuaded Onesimus to return. By Roman law, at some point he must return. However, Paul wants to not just return a runaway slave, but address the slavery itself, so that when Onesimus returned the circumstances would be different. Under Roman law the slave owner had complete control over the slave, to treat however they chose. Escaping would usually be met with very harsh treatment, maybe even death. Punishment was brutal, inhumane, and gruesome, and I won’t get into it here. Google if you want to know more. What Paul is doing is first building empathy with his own chains, acknowledging the brotherhood of believers, appreciating Philemon’s love, emphasizing that Onesimus is now one of the family of believers, and that Paul loves him “who is my very heart,” “my son,” and all of this is to be read aloud in the Christian community. Onesimus would go back, but with the expectation that he would be safe and his circumstances would be very different. How do you think both Onesimus and Philemon were feeling about this, and why? Have you ever had to shift the way you thought of someone, or someone was expected to shift their perception and treatment of you? Most times, it can be an uneasy, difficult transition. However, with the power of the Holy Spirit, we are enabled, empowered, and filled with the love, strength, and Godly perceptions that can work through us in such circumstances.  Ask God for revelation and strength to live into God’s vision, with God’s perspective. Thank God for his mercy and grace!

Thursday: v.13 “I would have liked to keep him with me so that he could take your place in helping me while I am in chains for the gospel”- Paul continues his push for better conditions and treatment for Onesimus, drawing a parallel between Onesimus and his slave owner, Philemon. It elevates the status of Onesimus to being an equal within the family of God, able to be in ministry, and Paul even desiring his help. He is of worth, valuable, capable. In my opinion, it seems that Paul is throwing in an extra dose of guilt for Philemon, Paul reinforcing once again that he is in chains for the Gospel. V.14 “But I did not want to do anything without your consent, so that any favor you do would not seem forced but would be voluntary”- Paul is digging in even more! He is placing the argument so that he is respecting Philemon’s authority over his slave, while simultaneously changing the rules and understanding of what that means, and making it so that Philemon will need to concede to the change as his own decision. “Any favor you do”- Paul is certainly expecting that Philemon will follow through with favor toward Onesimus. “would not seem forced but voluntary”- that the love of Christ and the leading of the Holy Spirit, along with being informed through Paul as a fellow believer (and Apostle), Philemon would choose to do the right thing by Onesimus. Change of heart and mind, with freedom of choice, is how things would change. If it was forced, it could inspire bitterness, resentment, and a backlash, which would not fare well for anyone, especially Onesimus. Take a moment of silence with God. Wait. Listen. Pay attention to everything that keeps popping up in your mind, and either “sweep it away,” or if necessary, deal with it with God. When you are open to receiving, ask God to speak to you about what changes he desire you to make. As they come up, address them- why the change, what it the biblical grounding for the change, what are you supposed to be learning and understanding, etc.? Choose the change. Pray for the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, and an awareness of change throughout your days. Thank God for loving you so much to want better for you, and to give you free will to choose it!

Friday: v.15 “Perhaps the reason he was separated from you for a little while”- note Paul’s device to enhance his argument- instead of “he ran away from you” it’s “separated from you for a little while.” The perspective is changed, which helps change the attitude around the situation. The perspective continues to change, “Perhaps… was that you might have him back forever”- enticing suggestion, with an implication that this new way would be something permanent. Also, instead of being angry that he had run away, Paul is suggesting that Philemon be hopeful for the opportunity to have Onesimus back. When we are faced with difficult situations, perhaps a change of perspective is needed. In those circumstances, ask God for his perspective- is there another way to look at it that would be better, more in alignment with God’s will, healthier, etc.? If you are in this position now, take some time with God, seeing and experiencing God’s new perspective. Allow the new way of viewing it to fill you, and embrace it, thanking God for revelation. V.16a “no longer as a slave, but better than a slave, as a dear brother”- change of perspective, change in relationship. Paul is asking for Philemon to treat his runaway slave that is returning as a dear brother in Christ. He would now be one of the family of believers. That changes everything! How do you think Philemon felt about this? Onesimus? The gathered congregation? Why? What Paul is ultimately saying is that Philemon and Onesimus are equally valuable to God, and they should treat one another with the love of Christ, which means respect, value, love, etc. This is huge!! This goes completely against society that said that slavery was acceptable and instead God’s values are what are to be followed. It goes against the understanding that Philemon, as a slave owner, had a right to be angry and to institute vengeance with great punishment against Onesimus. Instead, Onesimus would be received with open arms and celebrated. He would be treated as an equal, working side-by-side in ministry. What does this say to you about others in your world? What does it say to you about any “rights” about anger and retaliation? Philemon will now be put to the test. Paul had heard wonderful things about him and his deep faith, but its depth and sincerity will be marked by how he treats Onesimus. V.16b “He is very dear to me but even dearer to you, both as a fellow man and as a brother in the Lord”- Paul is saying that he trusts that Philemon will do the right thing, the Godly thing, especially emphasizing “in the Lord.” The identity of Onesimus- no longer a slave, but a fellow man (a human being, with value) even with the person who used to have authority over him. No longer on the outside, on the margins, excluded from community, but welcomed, accepted, included- a brother in the Lord. Give thanks to God and for our community of believers, who welcome, accept, and include you and others, and that we are part of the family of God!

Saturday: v.17 “So if you consider me a partner, welcome him as you would welcome me”- as in, don’t show partiality. Through Christ, the divisions are broken down. “If you consider me a partner”- Paul is being humble (while persuasive), as he is an Apostle with authority, yet using the side-by-side language of “partner.” The term “welcome” here is interesting. The original Greek is proslambanó, taken from prós, “towards, interactively with,” intensifying, and lambánō, “lay hold of with initiative,” properly- aggressively receive, with strong personal interest (biblehub.com). So it is far more than “to welcome,” as in be friendly and say hello! What does this greater definition say to you about what Paul is asking Philemon to actually do? What does that tell you about what God wants you to do? V.18 “If he has done you any wrong or owes you anything, charge it to me”- the reality is that running away alone likely caused Philemon to “suffer loss” in some way, and most scholars believe that Onesimus did steal from him before leaving (and stealing was also punishable by death). For Paul to bring it up, either he assumed that Onesimus did that, or more likely Onesimus confessed to stealing as part of his conversion. Also, by Paul using the word “if” he is recognizing that there could likely be harm done that he and Onesimus are unaware of. It’s like a big, open-ended, IOU on behalf of another. Paul is willing to stand in the gap and pay back anything owed and make restitution for any wrong. That’s a big commitment to Philemon, based on a commitment of love for Onesimus, Philemon, and ultimately Jesus Christ. Jesus did the same for us, he stood in the gap, going to the cross for us, paying the penalty for sin so we may be justified, in restored relationship with God. Imagine being all of the different characters- what is on their heart, what is in their mind, what is God asking them to do- Onesimus, Philemon, Paul, the gathered church. What is God asking us as a church, and asking you, to do? V.19 “I, Paul, am writing this with my own hand. I will pay it back- not to mention that you owe me your very self”- Paul is confirming his commitment. It’s personal and valid, sealed by the writing of his own hand (as opposed to a scribe or secretary). “Not to mention that you owe me your very self”- Paul hasn’t used his “apostle card” up to this point, but gives a little reminder that Philemon’s salvation, faith, and ministry came through Paul’s ministry. It was a gift of life that is so large that there is no repayment. Just as when we are faced with doing something for God, giving or sacrificing in some way, if we ever start to question why, we need only think of all Christ, and Christ through the church, has done for us. It inspires a heart of gratitude. V.20 “I do wish, brother, that I may have some benefit from you in the Lord; refresh my heart in Christ”-  the word “benefit” is actually oninémi in Greek, the same root as the name Onesimus. So Paul is doing another word play, reinforcing his message about the runaway slave now returning, connecting his own relationship to Philemon to that of Philemon and Onesimus. It was also a push for the greater request- that Onesimus be released altogether in order to be in ministry with Paul. “Refresh my heart in Christ,” referring back to the beginning of the letter when he shares that Philemon has “refreshed the hearts of the Lord’s people” (v.7). Onesimus is now one of the “Lord’s people,” and Paul is hoping, expecting, Philemon to extend that love that comes through Christ to refresh Onesimus, which is anapauó in the Greek, meaning “to give rest, give intermission from labor, by implication refresh.” Ahhh… exhale… the struggle, the running, the slavery, would be over. Christ’s love, given and received through us, can heal and refresh. v.21 “Confident of your obedience, I write to you, knowing that you will do even more than I ask”- remember, this is being read aloud to the entire gathered community in the house church! The word translated “obedience” is hupakoé in the Greek from (from akoúō, “to hear” and hypó, “beneath”) – i.e. obedience – literally, “submission to what is heard” (biblehub.com). Does this change anything in your understanding? What is Paul saying with that word in this context? “Knowing that you will do even more that I ask”- wow! The pressure is certainly on! But there is also trust behind it, based upon Paul’s knowledge of Philemon’s character. Yes, he had slaves. It was customary in society, and until now he likely had not considered it not being okay with God. We get used to what we live with, and it takes the Holy Spirit, and sometimes the bold voice of another believer, to preach and teach the truth of what God wants. So what do you think the “even more” could be? What would you do? V. 22-24 “And one thing more: Prepare a guest room for me, because I hope to be restored to you in answer to your prayers. Epaphras, my fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus, sends you greetings.  And so do Mark, Aristarchus, Demas and Luke, my fellow workers”- Paul has a close enough relationship with Philemon that there was open hospitality for Paul to come as a guest and stay at Philemon’s home. It’s also another strategy- I’m coming, and will see the outcome of this situation firsthand. He didn’t come right out and say that, but I can imagine that was felt. “I hope to be restored to you in answer to your prayers”- Paul is either responding to word that Philemon had been praying for him, which is likely considering their relationship and the ministry started through him, or an urging for there to be prayer. It’s difficult to bear a grudge and carry ill feelings toward someone you are actively praying for. If you have people in your life that cause you grief, or struggle, pain, or have just called you out and you’re struggling with all the emotions in the wake- pray for them. Prayer brings healing, relief, refreshment, and grace. All the names- “Epaphras, my fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus, sends you greetings.  And so do Mark, Aristarchus, Demas and Luke, my fellow workers” The letter is now coming to a close, and friends in common are sending greetings along with it. Note that the two Gospel writers, Mark and Luke, are listed! Paul had clearly made up with Mark by this time (for the issue see Col. 4:10, Acts 13:13, Acts 15:36-41). Epaphras is not only a “fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus,” but is named in the other letter written to this same church in Colossae, the book of Colossians (1:7, 4:12). Aristarchus is a traveling companion to Paul and also named in Colossians (4:10) as well as in Acts (19:29, 20:4, 27:2). Demas was also named in Colossians (4:14), and in 2 Timothy 4:10 (though not in a good way). v.25 “The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit”- a blessing for the end of Paul’s letter. Beginning and ending with a blessing! I pray you are blessed, and will share your blessing with others!

Other items:

Responsive Reading (adapted from Psalm 9:1,7-11, 13-14 ESV)

L: We give thanks to You Lord with our whole heart;

P: We will recount all Your wonderful deeds.

L: For You Lord, sit enthroned forever;

P: You have established Your throne for justice,

L: You judge the world with righteousness;

P: You judge the peoples with uprightness.

L: You are a stronghold for the oppressed,

    a stronghold in times of trouble.

P: We put our trust in You,

L: For you, O Lord, have not forsaken those who seek you.

P: We sing praises to You Lord,

All: For You are gracious to us and we rejoice in Your salvation!

Unison Prayer

God of mercy,

You transform us

By Your saving grace.

Empower us by Your Spirit

To make a lasting difference

In the lives of others

Through Your love

In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Song Lyrics:

#363 And Can it Be v.1,3,4,5

1. And can it be that I should gain
   an interest in the Savior’s blood!
   Died he for me? who caused his pain!
   For me? who him to death pursued?
   Amazing love! How can it be
   that thou, my God, shouldst die for me?
   Amazing love! How can it be
   that thou, my God, shouldst die for me?

3. He left his Father’s throne above
   (so free, so infinite his grace!),
   emptied himself of all but love,
   and bled for Adam’s helpless race.
   ‘Tis mercy all, immense and free,
   for O my God, it found out me!
   ‘Tis mercy all, immense and free,
   for O my God, it found out me!
   
   4. Long my imprisoned spirit lay,
   fast bound in sin and nature’s night;
   thine eye diffused a quickening ray;
   I woke, the dungeon flamed with light;
   my chains fell off, my heart was free,
   I rose, went forth, and followed thee.
   My chains fell off, my heart was free,
   I rose, went forth, and followed thee.
   
   5. No condemnation now I dread;
   Jesus, and all in him, is mine;
   alive in him, my living Head,
   and clothed in righteousness divine,
   bold I approach th’ eternal throne,
   and claim the crown, through Christ my own.
   Bold I approach th’ eternal throne,
   and claim the crown, through Christ my own.

Who You Say I Am by Hillsong Worship (Reuben Timothy Morgan/Benjamin David Fielding)

Who am I that the highest King would welcome me?
I was lost, but He brought me in
Oh His love for me
Oh His love for me

Who the Son sets free
Oh, is free indeed
I’m a child of God, yes, I am

Free at last, He has ransomed me
His grace runs deep
While I was a slave to sin, Jesus died for me
Yes, He died for me

Who the Son sets free
Oh is free indeed
I’m a child of God, yes, I am

In my Father’s house
There’s a place for me
I’m a child of God, yes, I am

I am chosen, not forsaken
I am who You say I am
You are for me, not against me
I am who You say I am

I am chosen, not forsaken
I am who You say I am
You are for me, not against me
I am who You say I am
I am who You say I am

Who the Son sets free
Oh is free indeed
I’m a child of God, yes, I am

In my Father’s house
There’s a place for me
I’m a child of God, yes, I am

In my Father’s house
There’s a place for me
I’m a child of God, yes, I am

Amazing Grace (My Chains are Gone) by Chris Tomlin

Amazing grace how sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me
I once was lost, but now I’m found
Was blind, but now I see

‘Twas grace that taught my heart to fear
And grace my fears relieved
How precious did that grace appear
The hour I first believed

My chains are gone, I’ve been set free
My God, my Savior has ransomed me
And like a flood His mercy reigns
Unending love
Amazing grace

The Lord has promised good to me
His word my hope secures
He will my shield and portion be
As long as life endures

My chains are gone, I’ve been set free
My God, my Savior has ransomed me
And like a flood His mercy reigns
Unending love
Amazing grace

My chains are gone, I’ve been set free
My God, my Savior has ransomed me
And like a flood His mercy reigns
Unending love
Amazing grace

The earth shall soon dissolve like snow
The sun forbear to shine
But God who called me here below
Will be forever mine, will be forever mine
You are forever mine

Format (this is a repeat from last week, and will be consistently present for anyone new and as a reminder for all):

Find a quiet place and time to focus on the Word, and to hear from God through it. It doesn’t have to be long, for some it will be longer than others. I encourage you, if possible, to do this practice in the morning. You will then find that God brings it to your mind throughout your day.

For greater impact I encourage you to get some paper and a pen and journal daily what thoughts and impressions God brings to mind. Write out also your own thoughts and your own prayers, making sure to leave space within your time for God’s response. Listen intently, and notice what rises up within you- what you are thinking, feeling, memories that arise and ideas that spring up. It may be something God would want you to address within yourself and/or with others. It may be something God is inspiring you to begin or end. God’s possibilities are infinite! After time, it is often beneficial to go back and read what you have written, and notice how God has been moving in your life (and praise God for it!).

Begin with prayer, quieting yourself within and opening up to hearing what God would like to reveal to you. Praise God for who he is, for loving you, being with you, and more. Then ask God to speak to you; to open your heart and mind to hear his message. (if you are journaling, you could write out the prayer)

Read the Scripture passage over twice; once as a read through, and the second time slowly, meditatively. Notice what God illuminates for you. Notice what words or ideas are “jumping off the page at you,” impacting you from the Scripture. Ask God why that is being highlighted for you. What is God saying to you? What is God asking you to say, do, change, pray about, etc.? What is the application for my life today? **Most importantly- what am I going to do about it? (If you are journaling you could write it all out, which reinforces it in a greater way)

I have put together some daily questions based upon the Scripture. You may use those, but also feel free to deviate away from it if God is leading you there. They are simply offered to prompt contemplation with God. There is much more in this passage, feel free to delve in more!

At the end of your time pray again. I recommend praying throughout, but the ending prayer would include praise, thanking God for revelation, and asking for the Holy Spirit to continue to reveal, bringing to mind God’s will. Ask God for the courage, empowerment, and opportunity to do what you have determined God is asking you to do.