Partners

Philemon 1:17 So if you consider me a partner, welcome him as you would welcome me. 

When you hear the word “partner” what comes into your mind? I think business partner, golf partner, prayer partner. But I also hear the term “life partner” being thrown around these days. What other “partners” come to mind in this moment?

I have been married for 40 years. My wife is my partner. We know each other in ways that no one else on the planet knows us. We enjoy many of the same things: travel, good food, fellowship with others, our children and grandchildren, discipling young believers, blessing others around the world.

But we also differ in so many ways. I just can’t go shopping for hours on end, looking at everything on every shelf. (I’m not saying that this is what my wife does, just saying.) We have slightly different tastes, but we each have given up some of our own preferences instead of making it a point of contention.

Paul is writing a letter to a friend and fellow Jesus-follower named Philemon. Philemon’s slave has run away. Philemon had every right to have his property returned, for his slave, Onesimus to be returned.

But something has happened. The Gospel has intervened in Onesimus’ life and in both Philemon and Paul’s life as well. So as a result, Onesimus has become a Christian brother to both of these men. He has found equal standing before God through Jesus Christ. His status has changed forever.

But Philemon’s status as a slave owner has changed as well. The Gospel has impacted how he thinks about himself and others. So Paul appeals to this change in status and thinking. Slaves and owners both have a Master in Heaven. Both must submit their wills and actions to the Master.

But Paul goes further. He wants Philemon to welcome Onesimus as though he were Paul. Paul puts his own capital on the table. The way you would welcome me, welcome him.

What a radical concept. Paul loans Onesimus his street credibility. Paul has ‘earned’ the right to fellowship. Paul says that Onesimus has earned that right as well.

Are there people in your life to whom you could lend some of your street credibility to in order to help them raise their status? This might be a referral made to a friend that would boost the underdog in the long run. Maybe it would be a loan at no interest to help them get started in a business. Maybe it would be a gift! Maybe your face and name get associated with this person in a way that opens doors for them.

What I do know is that some people need a solid friend, just like Onesimus needed Paul and Philemon. We can extend ourselves for the sake of others.