Being part of a family isn’t easy – but then again, not worth doing is ever easy. We have a hidden warning at the end of Philemon through the providence of God’s progressive revelation. Despite the wounds felt by those who you love, we must be “all in” when it comes to our commitments to one another. And where those relationship are broken, and yet in need of repair, remember, God knows better than anyone the sorrow of those who have been lost.
Observations:
- This letter represents a commitment to Philemon where Demas is included in that commitment
- Wherever relational conflict occurs within the body, it is of spiritual significance
Conclusions:
- Love-of-this-world will consistently lead to division
- Grace is a required ingredient for all relational conflict
- You ought to be wounded by earthly commitments that masquerade as Christian
Application: Give attention to…
- Your commitment to God as gracious
- Your commitment to one another as gracious
2 Timothy 4:9-11
“Do your best to come to me quickly, for Demas, because he loved this world, has deserted me and has gone to Thessalonica. Crescens has gone to Galatia, and Titus to Dalmatia. Only Luke is with me. Get Mark and bring him with you, because he is helpful to me in my ministry.”
Ephesians 6:12
“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”
1 John 2:15-16
“Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world.”
2 Timothy 4:16
“At my first defense, no one came to my support, but everyone deserted me. May it not be held against them.”
Luke 23:34
“Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” And they divided up his clothes by casting lots.”