Philemon 1:4-6, A Prayer for Sharing our Faith

This short letter is almost like a business letter, although it is the “Lord’s business” that is at stake.  Paul is exhorting Philemon to take back the runaway slave Onesimus, who has put his trust in Christ.  Some think Paul is using tactics of the world, as he tries to encourage Philemon.  But that is to read in motives that Paul does not have.  He rejects flattery as a motivation (1 Th. 2:5), and the kindness both men had shown was true (in v19 Paul indicates that at some point in the past he had blessed Philemon in some way, perhaps because Paul’s gospel had been brought to Colossae, likely being the time Philemon trusted Christ).

Having said this, we need to note that Paul really is thankful for Philemon’s love and faith toward Christ and His Church.  Paul has been saying this frequently in his prayers, that God is to be thanked for the evidence of Christ’s life in people.  In the letter, Paul speaks of the church that meets at Philemon’s house (v2), and hopes to be able to come sometime and enjoy Philemon’s hospitality (v22). 

What usually catches people’s attention in this prayer is in v6.  Paul’s request has to do with Philemon sharing his faith, and that in some way his sharing will be more effective.  What is meant by “the communication/sharing of your faith?”

Certainly the general idea is that Philemon’s faith will become effective, as in energetic and perfected.  In my circles, “sharing your faith” is pretty much synonymous with telling others about Christ.  It’s sharing the gospel.  That could certainly fit in this context.  However, a closer look might be helpful in opening up our hearts to this.  “Sharing” comes from the family of Greek words that we often translate “fellowship.”  It is sharing, but not limited to verbal sharing. 

It’s interesting that in v17 Paul uses a “fellowship” term saying, if you then count me as a partner.  Paul means, “if we share the same faith, then please receive Onesimus; do something for me.”  Philemon would share the same faith as Paul.  But more than that, sharing his faith effectively must have something to do with the immediate situation.  By taking back the slave (whom Philemon had a right to punish and even put to death) Philemon would be sharing the faith of Onesimus.  Think of what Philemon’s business associates or neighbors or other unsaved people would think; he would be sharing his faith with them as well.  That action would be a powerful statement of the gospel.

Thus, this is a great prayer for us to pray for each other in the body of Christ; that in our day-to-day decisions, including and especially those played out before the world, we would more effectively share our faith.  It’s one thing if the world knows you have a church at your house.  That likely meant Philemon had a big home.  But it’s another thing when, as a follower of Christ, you chart a different course than what is normal in your culture.  Our gospel-actions (acts of kindness, love) will open up many more opportunities for the necessary gospel-words.