Whom I would have retained with me, that in thy stead he might have ministered unto me in the bonds of the Gospel. Philemon 13
One thing that becomes apparent as we read the little book of Philemon is that Paul had the highest regard for two men: Philemon and Onesimus. Philemon was a dear old friend from his visits to Colosse, probably someone who was saved during Paul’s initial missionary visit to that city. As we read the letter, we find Paul speaking to Philemon in terms reserved for only the dearest of friends and for those deserving the greatest of respect. Theirs was a very touching relationship. Few men would the apostle rather have had at his side than the godly Philemon. And yet, in Onesimus, Paul had found one worthy to be a substitute for his Colossian friend. The former slave had developed into a stalwart soldier of the cross, a vibrant witness, and a willing worker in the Gospel efforts in Rome. His affection and care for Paul had made him an invaluable companion. As a convert from Paul’s witness in the prison, Onesimus was a delight to the apostle who rejoiced at the younger man’s rapid growth in spiritual things. Philemon and Onesimus are examples to us today of those who are a help and blessing to the Lord’s people.
Although we need to read between the lines a little, we can identify in Philemon a godly leader among the Colossian saints. He and his wife Apphia were obviously hospitable people and very supportive of the Gospel workers. When Paul was in Colosse, they had ministered unto him in the bonds of the Gospel. Preachers today rejoice when they encounter people like Philemon and Apphia when they arrive in an area for Gospel work. With their needs well cared for, they can concentrate on visiting and preaching, and can be much more effective in their labours. Thankfully, we have such couples among us today.
Thankfully, we also have young Christians like Onesimus. Even when Paul was not in prison, he had many things to attend to that were better done by an assistant. But not just any assistant would do. Paul needed a prayer partner, someone to read to him as his eyesight deteriorated, and someone who would faithfully and carefully write the letters that Paul would dictate. Onesimus would help see to Paul’s physical needs, making sure he was well fed and had warm clothing. Only a person with a caring nature would perform these tasks well. From his prison cell, Paul could rejoice at the kindness and care of his young convert, and would be delighted at the spiritual growth in the man. Do we have young men and women about us today who are like Onesimus? Yes we do, although not as many as we would like. As Paul prayed for Onesimus, so we ought to pray for the young men and women around us today, that they would develop into profitable servants of the Lord.
A good goal for us would be to become the type of Christian that Paul would like to have minister to him instead of Philemon and Onesimus in the bonds of the Gospel. – Jim MacIntosh