Brother love

Philemon 1:17-19 NIV84

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. I, Paul, am writing this with my own hand. I will pay it back–not to mention that you owe me your very self.

The man that Paul sends back to Philemon is no longer considered worthless. During his time with Paul, he must have gained value enough to be of worth. I would imagine that the man that stayed with Paul was discipled and trained by him to have gained worth.

Two things come into mind when reading this passage. First Paul takes upon whatever misdeeds this individual has made. He puts his reputation up for this individual. This guy might have been some sort of scoundrel to the people that Paul was writing to. Secondly, the man that was with Paul was changed by the spirit. No longer is he of no worth to both Paul and Philemon, but now he is worth more to both. During his stay with Paul he must have gained some spiritual fruit for Paul to have wanted him to stay with him. What I'm taking away from this passage is that... I need to be like Paul and not judge people based on their past. Secondly, I need to be able to put myself on the line for a brother even if it means paying off their debt. That is what Christ like love is. To no judge based on their past misdeeds, but to go as far put myself on the line.

Jesus help me to be more like you and give grace to those that aren't at the right spiritual stage. But really who am I to judge that in itself. It is only you that can judge the content of a man's character. I just ask that you help me to lay down myself for a brother like Paul did. To even take up his debt if it means that brother or sister would be able to walk away free. I ask for your strength. And I repent if i had any notion that I could do this on my own and in my own strength.

In Jesus Name
Amen.