THE BEAUTY OF BEING A DISCIPLE (2)

INTRODUCTION

The story of Onesimus in the book of Philemon teaches us about the beauty of being a disciple. A transformation of life occurs through grace, forgiveness, and reconciliation. Onesimus, a useless runaway slave, was transformed by the gospel through Paul into a faithful and ‘useful’ brother in Christ. This story affirms that in Christ, social status is transformed into equal brotherhood.

1. Onesimus: A picture of ourselves (in the past)

Onesimus was a slave who ran away from his master, Philemon, and was suspected of stealing property.
He represents sinful humans who run away from God, are useless, and have a great debt of sin.
Sin creates distance, but in prison, he met Paul and the gospel that changed his life.

2. The gospel changes lives (transformation)

The meaning of the name Onesimus is ‘useful’. He used to be useless (Philemon 1:11).
Paul refers to Onesimus as ‘our faithful and beloved brother’ (Colossians 4:9).
Onesimus' change was evident: after being discipled by Paul, he changed from a runaway slave to a servant of Christ who served others.

3. The Power of Forgiveness and Reconciliation (the love of Christ)

Paul asked Philemon to take Onesimus back, not as a slave, but as a beloved brother (Philemon 1:16).
Paul acted as a leader like Christ, offering to bear Onesimus' debt (Philemon 1:18). Reconciliation is based on the love of Christ, not social status.