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Philemon – The Power of Love
Love & Example Is Stronger than Authority
Let us never forget love is stronger than force. Force relies on the weakness of one; love relies on the strength of two.
Commendations are a frequent happening with Paul. If there is good to be announced, he blows the horn. Letting others know of “beloved” brothers and hard “workers” will encourage the person spoken of and the people spoken to (1 Thessalonians 3:5‑9).
The simple fact that Philemon availed his house for the assembling of the saints shows his giving personality. Even though doing good could be an inconvenience, we should not let that cease our good works. It is just conjecture, but it seems probable that Philemon volunteered (vv.4‑6). Why is it that too many Christians have to be forced to “volunteer?”
“God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth” (John 4:24). Man does not understand worship if he confines it to and depends upon a physical building. Too much of today’s worship is based upon physicalities. Jesus claimed a time would come when it would not matter which mountain; buildings should not comprise the worthiness of a church. It is better to meet in a house filled with spiritual wonderment than in a cathedral of physical wonderment.
Lest we become high‑browed, this verse is a good reminder of our exalted but lowly position. We are exalted to sonship to our Heavenly Father, but shall always be servants to our Master, indebted to our Savior, and under the authority of God the father; Christ our prophet, priest and king; and the Holy Spirit.
Again we see the steadfastness of Paul in that he remembers others, though he himself was in prison. Paul was never bitter because he was in prison while others whom he taught were free. We should never let envy stop us from praying for those in a better (as we perceive it) position. That is the power of love within ourselves for others.
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