STB120 | BSE | Philemon 1-7: A Good Believer's Example | Cultivate Relationships

BIBLE SCHOOL EDITION - Nathan and Pastor Scott unpack Philemon 1–7 and Paul's addressing of Philemon, Apphia, and Archippus — along with their whole house church — as a united community rather than just individuals. Within the context of Colossians 4.1-18 and "Ephesians" 6.21-24, the introduction of Philemon (1-7) illustrates the collective responsibility of believers within a Spirit-filled, life-giving community to live out the gospel.

— EPISODE CHAPTERS —
(00:00) INTRODUCTION
(06:40) PHILEMON 1-3
(1:00:24) PHILEMON 4-7
(1:13:27) ACTIVATION STEPS

— EPISODE LINKS —
• Bible Tools
https://cultivaterelationships.com/bible-tools/
• Small Group Series | Friendship
https://cultivaterelationships.com/small-groups/series-4-friendship/
• The Freedom Booklet
https://cultivaterelationships.com/the-freedom-booklet/
• Podcast Playlist | 1-3 John
https://cultivaterelationships.com/1-3-john/
• More Content & Resources At Our Website
https://cultivaterelationships.com/

— EPISODE NOTES —
PHILEMON 1-3: INTRODUCTION
Author: Paul through Timothy → carried by Tychicus and Onesimus (slave) (see Colossians 4.1-18; Ephesians 6.21-24).
Audience: Philemon (slave owner), Apphia (possibly Philemon’s wife) & Archippus (possibly the lead pastor and house church host).
Date: c.59-61 AD during imprisonment in Rome awaiting trial under Nero (cf. Acts 27-28). Colossians (c.59~61 AD), “Ephesians” (c.59-61 AD), Revelation (c.67~68 AD) 2.1-7 (Ephesus); and 3.14-22 (Laodicea).

Paul addresses Philemon, Apphia, and Archippus — along with their whole house church — as a united community rather than just individuals. This introduction highlights the collective responsibility of believers in living out the gospel as it will personally apply to Philemon and his slave, Onesimus.

APPLICATION QUESTION(S): Why do you think Paul makes resolving personal issues and conflict a public matter, inviting Philemon’s church to partner with him in the reconciliation process with Onesimus? In what ways do you personally fight against the temptation to be individualistic in your struggles and conflicts?

PHILEMON 4-7: PAUL AFFIRMS OF PHILEMON
Paul commends Philemon for his sacrificial love and demonstrated faith, especially for how he has refreshed and encouraged the believers in his house church.

APPLICATION QUESTION(S): Why do you think Paul advocates for a believer’s faith to go beyond a private or intellectual pursuit to one that impacts the church community around them? Do you think Paul would agree or disagree that a Christian’s life is one of privacy, independence, and personal devotion?

ACTIVATION STEPS
From this study, prayerfully walk through the following steps:

STEP #1 - EMBRACE FAITH AS A SHARED JOURNEY (Philemon 1-3):
The Christian life is not meant to be lived in isolation. Rather it is meant to be lived in community — where mutually beneficial encouragement, accountability, and love are demonstrated. Ask the Holy Spirit: Who have You placed in my life to walk with me in faith, and how can I engage more deeply with them?

STEP #2 - ADDRESS STRUGGLES AND CONFLICT TOGETHER (Philemon 4-6):
Sin, conflict, and personal struggles are not meant to be dealt with alone. God desires us to seek wisdom, restoration, and healing within the Christian community. Ask the Holy Spirit: What conflict or struggle have I been handling alone that I need to bring into the light with some trusted believers?

STEP #3 - REFRESH OTHERS THROUGH LOVE AND ENCOURAGEMENT (Philemon 7):
True faith is not just personal devotion — it overflows into relationships, bringing strength and renewal to others. Ask the Holy Spirit: Who can I refresh this week through an encouraging, comforting, or challenging word; personal prayer and intercession; or through practical support or bring relief to them in their struggles?