In this sermon, we are taken into Paul’s deeply personal letter to Philemon. Paul, writing from prison, appeals on behalf of Onesimus, a runaway slave who has become his spiritual son in Christ. Paul urges Philemon to receive him back not as a slave but as a brother. Ps Inkyu points out that while Paul’s letter sounds polite, it carries the weight of a command: “You owe me… welcome him as you would welcome me.” Paul’s purpose was not just personal—it was missional. Onesimus was needed for the advance of the gospel.
From this, we are reminded that the mission of the church takes precedence over personal interests or cultural norms. Just as Paul urged Philemon to release Onesimus, we are called to release our grip on selfish desires so that God’s mission may move forward. The sermon also highlights Paul’s honesty about his weaknesses—his poor health and unimpressive speech—yet God used him powerfully. Our calling is not to rely on our strength but to obey God’s voice, even when it feels foolish in the world’s eyes.
Ps Inkyu reflects on his own experiences—being misunderstood across cultures, confronting prejudice, and making costly choices (like choosing mission in Mauritius instead of academic opportunity in England). Again and again, the message is clear: true peace, true purpose, and true identity come not from our own plans, but from surrender to God’s mission.
Key Takeaways:
- Paul’s appeal to Philemon shows how the gospel reshapes relationships—slaves become brothers.
- The mission of God outranks personal gain, cultural expectations, or social status.
- Obedience often looks foolish in the world’s eyes, but it brings lasting peace.
- True leadership is rooted in listening more than speaking.
- Every believer is “a prisoner for Christ”—our lives belong to His mission, not our desires.
- Peace is not the absence of conflict but the presence of God’s Spirit guiding His people.
Reflection: Who is God calling you to release, to forgive, or to receive as a brother or sister—so that God’s mission can move forward through you?
