We’re In This Together

We’re In This Together

One Chapter Wonders

The Bible contains five short books that only have one chapter each, yet their impact is just as great as longer books like Proverbs, Ephesians, or Revelation. These “One Chapter Wonders” pack powerful truths into a compact space.

Last week we looked at the Old Testament book of Obadiah. Today, we turn to the first of the New Testament one-chapter books: Philemon.

When Jesus entered the world in the first century, He transformed cultural and social norms, creating a new standard for relationships through the gospel. Paul’s short letter to Philemon shows us how those standards play out in real relationships. It’s a message we still need today because, as the theme reminds us, we’re in this together.

Celebrate Alliance in Ministry

Paul begins his letter with gratitude for the partnership he shares with Philemon.

“Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus, and Timothy our brother,
To Philemon our dear friend and fellow worker—also to Apphia our sister and Archippus our fellow soldier—and to the church that meets in your home: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” (Philemon 1–3)

Philemon was a wealthy Christian in Colossae whose home hosted the local church. Paul calls him a “fellow worker” and thanks God for his faith and love:

“I always thank my God as I remember you in my prayers, because I hear about your love for all his holy people and your faith in the Lord Jesus… Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the Lord’s people.” (Philemon 4–7)

Paul celebrates Philemon’s faithfulness and the way his love impacted others. It’s life-giving when we see people working together in ministry. Whether in children’s ministry, worship, youth, hospitality, or teaching, our alliance in Christ is what makes the church strong. We don’t serve alone; we serve together.

Elevate People in Process

After expressing thanks, Paul makes an appeal:

“I appeal to you for my son Onesimus, who became my son while I was in chains. Formerly he was useless to you, but now he has become useful both to you and to me.” (Philemon 10–11)

Onesimus was once Philemon’s slave. He ran away—possibly even stealing from him—and ended up in Rome, where he met Paul. Through Paul’s ministry, Onesimus became a believer, and his life was transformed.

Now Paul sends Onesimus back, urging Philemon to receive him not as a slave, but as a brother in Christ:

“Perhaps the reason he was separated from you for a little while was that you might have him back forever—no longer a slave, but better than a slave, as a dear brother.” (Philemon 15–16)

This is the heart of the gospel: people are not defined by their past but by their new identity in Christ. Faith in Jesus breaks down barriers—Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male or female—we are one in Him (Galatians 3:28).

Everyone is a work in progress. No one arrives fully formed. Like Onesimus, people around us are “in process.” They may have rough edges or past failures, but God is transforming them. Our role is to elevate them—to see them through the lens of grace and help them move forward.

Activate Partnership in Service

Paul goes even further:

“So if you consider me a partner, welcome him as you would welcome me. If he has done you any wrong or owes you anything, charge it to me.” (Philemon 17–18)

Paul takes up Onesimus’ cause and fights for his acceptance. He even offers to pay any debt Onesimus might owe. He models what it looks like to champion someone else’s growth.

Sometimes we are Philemon—called to forgive and restore.

Sometimes we are Onesimus—needing humility and grace as we seek reconciliation.

Sometimes we are Paul—called to mentor, advocate, and walk alongside someone in their faith journey.

The letter ends with Paul’s reminder that unity requires grace:

“The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.” (Philemon 25)

Grace makes reconciliation possible. Grace transforms relationships. Grace reminds us that we truly are in this together.

SERMON DETAILS

Speaker: Jeff McNicol
Series: One Chapter Wonders
Sermon Title: We’re In This Together
Date: Aug 24, 2025

SCRIPTURE REFERENCES

• Philemon 1-25

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