BIBLE SCHOOL EDITION – Nathan and Pastor Scott wrap up Philemon 21–25 by highlighting Paul’s confidence that Philemon will go beyond what’s asked — not out of pressure, but because the gospel has truly transformed him. His obedience isn’t just submission to Paul, but evidence of the Holy Spirit’s work. Philemon’s discipleship is marked by radical love and vulnerable community, not safe, self-imposed limits. This is the power of a life changed by grace.
— EPISODE CHAPTERS —
(00:00) INTRODUCTION
(13:57) PHILEMON 8-16
(26:47) PHILEMON 17-20
(48:50) ACTIVATION STEPS
— EPISODE LINKS —
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— EPISODE NOTES —
PHILEMON 21: PAUL AFFIRMS PHILEMON’S GOSPEL TRANSFORMATION
Paul expresses confidence that Philemon will go beyond what he asked — not because of pressure, but because the gospel has truly changed him. Philemon’s obedience goes beyond submission to Paul, it is an outcome of the transformative power of the Holy Spirit working within him. Philemon’s discipleship was shaped by radical love and vulnerable community, not safe, individualistic self-imposed limits.
APPLICATION QUESTION(S): Am I living a faith that goes beyond what is expected (doing enough to be “right with God”), reflecting a heart transformed by the Holy Spirit?
PHILEMON 22-25: PHILEMON’S CHURCH
Philemon’s Spirit-filled, life-giving community includes Apphia (likely Philemon’s wife), Archippus (likely the leader), Onesimus (his slave), Epaphras (an intercessor), Mark (now reconciled to Paul after 12 years), Aristarchus (a traveling companion of Paul based out of Colossae), Demas (who would later selfishly desert Paul), and Luke (Paul’s personal doctor and memoirist). Unnamed (See Colossians 4.7-18): Tychicus, Jesus (Justus), Nympha and the whole Laodicean church (or Ephesian church).
APPLICATION QUESTION(S): How does my Spirit-filled, life-giving community challenge and support me to live beyond the bare minimum of obedience to the risky generosity (e.g., financial, relational, spiritual, etc.) of a maturing Christian?
ACTIVATION STEPS
From this study, prayerfully walk through the following steps:
STEP #1 – TRUST THE SPIRIT TO DO MORE THAN EXPECTED (Philemon 21):
Paul affirms Philemon’s faith and transformation. Ask the Holy Spirit: Where are You inviting me to go beyond what’s expected — to love, forgive, or serve in a way that reflects Your generously sacrificial heart?
STEP #2 – INVITE COMMUNITY INTO YOUR GROWTH (Philemon 2, 23-24):
Philemon’s community provided encouragement and accountability amidst a safe, Spirit-filled, life-giving atmosphere. Ask the Holy Spirit: Who are three specific individuals You have placed in my life who can challenge me, encourage me, and hold me accountable for what You are doing in my life?
STEP #3 – OBEY FROM GRACE, NOT OBLIGATION (Philemon 25):
Paul knows Philemon’s response will be one of gracious submission rather than dutiful obligation — from love rather than law. Ask the Holy Spirit: Where am I living from law (pressure or guilt) rather than love (faith or freedom)? What lie am I believing that leads me to operate out of pressure and guilt? What is the truth You want to teach me that will lead to faith and freedom?
