Introduction: In the days of the early church there was a believer named Philemon who probably lived in Colossae in Asia Minor and was a dear friend of the apostle Paul. He owned a slave named Onesimus who had run away and possibly robbed Philemon in the process. Onesimus had met Paul and through that relationship had been converted to faith in Christ. He had become very close to Paul and had helped and encouraged him while he was in prison in Rome. Finally Paul sent Onesimus back to Colossae with a letter addressed to Philemon, his wife, and one of the local church leaders. In this letter he pleads with Philemon to forgive Onesimus and reconcile with him. This is how he spoke about this:
[Note: Read this part aloud several times if this is too hard to memorize.]
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. 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. Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the Lord's people.
Therefore, although in Christ I could be bold and order you to do what you ought to do, yet I appeal to you on the basis of love . . . I appeal to you for my son Onesimus, who became my son while I was in chains. Formerly he was useless to you, but now he has become useful both to you and to me. I am sending him-- who is my very heart-- back to you. 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. But I did not want to do anything without your consent, so that any favor you do will be spontaneous and not forced. Perhaps the reason he was separated from you for a little while was that you might have him back for good-- 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 man and as a brother in the Lord.
So if you consider me a partner, welcome him as you would welcome me. If he has done you any wrong or owes you anything, charge it to me. I, Paul, am writing this with my own hand. I will pay it back-- not to mention that you owe me your very self. I do wish, brother, that I may have some benefit from you in the Lord; refresh my heart in Christ. Confident of your obedience, I write to you, knowing that you will do even more than I ask.
Optional Memory Verse: Colossians 3:12-14: Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.