Following Philemon
April 21, 2010
“Following Philemon”
Adult Wednesday Bible Study
West Broad Church of Christ
April 21, 25, and May 2, 2010
J.L. Nesmith, Jr., D.Min., Facilitator
Introduction:
We will begin our study of a small book with huge application. It is essentially a letter from one man to another. What factors were at work? And how can we face and benefit from those factors here at the West Broad Church of Christ?
I. Following Philemon: Cultural Concerns
Paul’s letter to Philemon involves the subject of slavery, and slavery was widely practiced in the Roman world.
· Considering causes
· Mentioning mission
Question: How could Christianity exist within such a system? Why did Christianity exist within such a system? What are your thoughts?
II. Following Philemon: Textual Concerns
The book of Philemon is built on three important emphases. Question: How might the principal players of this letter speak to our lives here at West Broad?
· Thanksgiving and Mention (1:1-7).
i. On openings. We cannot expect others to do what we do not
ii. On congeniality. We ingratiate not with faction but with fusion.
iii. On awareness. Question: How do you ask a person to do something that is challenging, difficult, and vitally important?
· Petition and Hope (1:8-16)
i. Important introductions
ii. The matter of love. Question: In your opinion, what would be different here at West Broad if all our actions were motivated by love, and love only?
iii. Talking through the text. Question: Paul asked a man to do something against personal and legal codes. What compelled Philemon to listen? What compels you to do the same?
· Promise and Parting (1:17-25)
i. A direct request. Question: How does this speak to the importance of relationship as we make difficult requests of each other at West Broad?
ii. More than mediocre
Conclusion:
Paul challenged Philemon to make a weighty consideration. It was a consideration that involved knowledge, graciousness, wisdom, sacrifice, and holiness. With this in view, you are expected to “Follow Philemon” this week (and every week) as a member of the West Broad Church of Christ. Question: How can you demonstrate the wisdom and graciousness of Paul and work to restore broken relationships over the next few days? How can you encourage/develop the love and receptiveness of Philemon? And more importantly, will identification result in application?
