Quick Backdrop
Here’s an idea. Let’s start with Scripture and let the Word do the teaching. No intro of an issue. No creative opener. Just a little backdrop info, and then we dive into the Word.

You may have noticed the Bible has a handful of one-chapter books. This is sort of a gift because it gives us a chance actually to own an entire book of the Bible in a short time. In fact, how about owning one within the next few minutes?

Philemon is one of those one-chapter books. You barely know it’s there, but it has a ton to teach us about living out the gospel in our daily lives. So here we go.

The What
One of the best ways to get a handle on a chapter or a book of the Bible is to notice the people who are mentioned. That’s the approach we’ll use for Philemon. Using your Bible or favorite Bible app, read the entire Book of Philemon (it’s only 25 verses). As you read this one-chapter book, use a separate sheet of paper or an electronic note document to write down as much detail as you are able about the key people noted below. You’ll see a few more names in the book. Feel free to add them to the list and include their info if you like.

Key People:
Paul
Philemon (pronounced Fi-LEE-mun)
Onesimus (pronounced Oh-NESS-eh-muss)

The So What
Take a minute to write a one-paragraph recap about Onesimus’ story. Write it as if you were writing about a new friend you met at camp or school. In fact, you may want to write an actual note to a friend describing this new character you’ve run across in the Book of Philemon. Write your own paragraph or use the questions below as prompts.

• What kind of past did he have?
• How would you describe his relationship with Philemon in the past?
• What seems to have been his turning point in life?
• How does his current life compare with his past life?

Now a couple more questions to get you thinking:
• What is Paul asking of Philemon?
• Why does it seem to be such a big ask?

Seal the Deal
This is one book of the Bible in which God is barely mentioned, and that’s mostly in the greeting and closing. So what’s your takeaway as to why we have this story in the Bible? Take a minute to think about that question and write down what comes to mind.

Now, look at what you just wrote about why we have this book in the Bible. How does your reason apply to you?

Seal the Deal Challenge
God obviously wanted us to know about the interaction between the people in this book. So, what can we learn from these folks that can help us live the Christian life in our day-to-day world? Close your devo time by picking one (or more) of the people from the Book of Philemon to imitate. Read each description below and let God speak to you about whom to emulate.

Be a Paul:
In whom could you invest? Write down two or three names of people you know who could use a dose of your positive spiritual influence.

Be a Philemon:
Who in your life needs a second chance at something? Apparently Onesimus blew it big time with Philemon through some earlier experience. Write down a couple names of people who need to be encouraged in order to pick themselves up and try again.

Be an Onesimus:
What aspect of your life could stand some improvement? Be open to learn and make adjustments that better align your thoughts and behavior with the gospel. Write down at least one aspect of your life in which you’d like help. Then call someone who’s a Paul or a Philemon in your life and ask for his or her help.

Be a refresher of the heart:
Refresher of the heart is a curious description that popped up twice in this letter. When people come into contact with you, do they leave with their hearts refreshed? Write down a one-sentence mission statement that motivates you to be a refresher of the heart to the people you see daily.