Scriptural Text: Philemon 1
Grace and peace to you. The biblical narrative of Philemon and Onesimus is concise yet compelling. Onesimus, a runaway slave, encountered Paul and underwent a remarkable transformation. While Philemon perceived Onesimus as crooked, a thief, and wicked, Paul saw him as a valuable vessel and a brother in the Lord. How could this stark contrast exist? The answer lies in Onesimus’s renewal and profound change.
The impact of the gospel on Onesimus’s life went beyond surface alterations; it penetrated the core and fabric of his nature. The transformation was so evident that Paul was willing to defend and vouch for him. Recognizing Philemon’s likely reluctance to accept Onesimus back due to past experiences, Paul seemed to have conveyed through his letter, “You knew him in the past, but I know him now. I cannot deceive you. Accept my testimony that the present Onesimus differs greatly from the one you knew. He is a changed and transformed man, having encountered the Christ who transforms us. Therefore, do not perceive him based on his past; recognize him as Christ does—a new creature.”
The Apostle Paul exhibited confidence in Onesimus and his transformation, expressing a readiness to settle any debts owed to his master. Paul valued Onesimus as someone “important” to both himself and Philemon, desiring to collaborate with him.
In contrast, many profess to have encountered the same Christ as Onesimus but exhibit no evident transformation or renewal. They seem to suggest that they met Christ, who allowed them to continue on their previous path. However, such a portrayal contradicts the biblical Christ, who transforms those He encounters, as evidenced by Paul’s testimony regarding Onesimus.
Beloved, failing to discard the notion of a fictional Christ from our thoughts may lead to dismay in the end. It is imperative to emulate Onesimus, who, despite his past as a crook and miscreant, experienced a profound change upon encountering the biblical Christ. We, too, must seek Christ with sincerity, turning away from our wicked ways to become new creations—useful vessels in the service of God. Soli Deo Gloria.
Let’s Pray: Dear Lord, may my transformation be obvious for all to see so that you may be glorified. Amen.
Michael Yaw Tano
Return To Christ 