Philemon 1:17 So then, if you still regard me as your beloved brother in Christ, welcome him (Onesimus) with open arms the way you normally welcome me (My translation).
Paul is one man that understands the power of the Gospel of Christ to change lives. He himself has experienced that same power in his life—the worst of all sinners, now an apostle of Christ (1 Timothy 1:15).
In the context of the above Scripture, Paul was writing concerning a once useless slave who has now met with Christ, and has been transformed by Him. He knew the history of Onesimus, a useless slave, but then he also knows what the gospel can do. He knew beyond all doubts that in Christ nobody is hopeless. There is no life lost. Anyone can be redeemed.
Onesimus has shared in the life of Christ. He is now a beloved brother. The old has passed away. The new has come. Paul’s premise is this: upon conversion, even a slave becomes an equally important part of the body of Christ; as important as anyone, including Paul. And so should be regarded as such.
Do you know of anyone that appears hopeless or useless? Don’t write off until meet with Christ.
