I, Paul, am writing with my own hand. I will repay—not to mention to you that you owe me even your own self besides. Yes, brother, let me have joy from you in the Lord; refresh my heart in the Lord. Philemon 1:19-20

As I ponder these scriptures, I can’t help but recognize the importance of the physical local Church. The Apostle Paul here, which he clearly identifies himself, is not just acting as Church authority or an Apostle, Paul is acting as a dear friend. The Apostle Paul is deeply invested in the lives of both these men and the Church. Paul doesn’t want Philemon to just forgive Onesimus out of obligation to Christ, He deeply loves both these guys and wants unity within the Church

You can’t develop these deep relationships outside of physically spending time together. Christians who neglect the local Body of Christ are doing themselves a great disservice, one of the main purposes of the local Church is to have a Christian family, a community of believers that fellowship with one another and share the love of Christ. You will not find this anywhere except the Church. 

As I mentioned in my previous post about verses 17 and 18, The Apostle Paul is taking on the role as a Mediator “I will repay” Paul is looking to resolve this conflict, any money that was taken by Onesimus, Paul will personally pay it to Philemon, just forgive the man of his debts. And then Paul reminds Philemon that he owes him also “not to mention to you that you owe me, even your own self besides”

Paul is asking Philemon for a favor, the value of his discipleship and teachings, the value of Pauls mentorship and friendship, Philemon owes Paul a great debt. This may sound arrogant but its the truth, how valuable would it have been if we could have the Apostle Paul personally disciple us? Would be invaluable!

This again brings me back to your local Church, do you have a Godly Pastor? Are you blessed to have a Pastor who preaches and teaches the Word of God and is led by the Holy Spirit? If so, appreciate your Pastor! These men of God are invaluable, cherish your local Church community, because Christ has built His Church!

The Apostle Paul is saying to Philemon, this is all I ask of you, forgive and receive Onesimus as a brother in Christ “let me have joy from you (Philemon) in The Lord” Refresh My Heart! This is Paul is asking , he’s not looking for money or any carnal desire, just forgive and love one another as Christ has forgiven us! Amen!