We often think of great missionaries and preachers as uniquely gifted individuals, for example William Carey or Hudson Taylor. That is an idea that can be encouraged by modern celebrity culture. Some of those famous Christians perhaps did function in an individualistic way, but most have been part of a team. We see this clearly with regard to the apostle Paul. We consider Philemon 22-25 The fellowship of service.
1. Praying
Paul makes a further request: he is planning to visit Philemon, so ‘Prepare a guest room for me’. Hospitality was very important in the Christian church, especially since inns could be unpleasant or even dangerous. Evidently Philemon was well off since he could accommodate a congregation and provide at least one guest room. Paul was in prison, so he says, ‘I hope to be restored to you’ – there can be no certainty about his future. However, ‘be restored’ shows his trust in God’s sovereign providence in all aspects of his life. All believers should think in the same way – see James 4:15. Note also the importance of believers’ prayers – belief in providence does not remove the need for prayer. We pray because God is sovereign, and prayers are written into his sovereign decrees. We need to pray and be prayed for.
2. Serving
As Paul concludes his letter, he passes on greetings from a number of others who were part of his gospel ministry. They are his ‘fellow workers’ (v23-24). These are additional to Tychicus and Onesimus who bring this letter and also the one to the Colossians (Colossians 4:7,9).
(i). Epaphras. He is a ‘fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus’ – probably not literally, but he ministered to Paul in prison. Note Colossians 4:12 ‘He is always wrestling in prayer for you’ – a glowing testimonial to the planter of churches in Colosse, Laodicea, and Hierapolis.
(ii). Mark. He is the cousin of Barnabas (Colossians 4:10), who failed at Perga (Acts 13:13), yet by grace was restored and became helpful to Paul in ministry (2 Timothy 4:11).
(iii). Aristarchus. Also ‘my fellow prisoner’ (Colossians 4:10) – another courageous brother who stood by Paul in his time of need. This is practical fellowship – Matthew 25:36.
(iv). Demas. Sadly, Demas later ‘loved this world’ and forsook Paul (2 Timothy 4:10). Perseverance is the only real proof of the genuineness of faith.
(v). Luke. He is ‘our dear friend’ (Colossians 4:14. He often accompanied Paul and stayed with him in his final imprisonment (2 Timothy 4:11). He was a faithful brother.
3. Blessing
Paul concludes with a suitable benediction. As an apostle he is the channel of God’s blessing. The focus is on grace, which believers need daily (2 Corinthians 12:9). Paul addresses the whole congregation who will hear the letter read out. They are one in the Lord.