God Meant It for Good
Introduction
Have you ever heard the phrase "everything is not as it seems"? In more cases than not, that is exactly the way it is with God. We look at every situation in our lives that seems not to be in our favor as bad while God looks at them as good. I don't understand this anymore than you do, but I do believe Romans 8:28, “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” Note the word “know” in that text. God says that we should “know” that all things work together through His love and grace, we act like we don't know that most of the time! Paul is suggesting exactly that in Philemon verse 15. In essence he is saying, “Philemon, is it possible that God knew what He was doing when He allowed an opportunity for Onesimus to escape?”
Let's look at Paul's heart on this.
I. Paul's Positive Reflection on the Past, vs. 15.
A. Paul Sees A Promised Reason, vs. 15.
For perhaps… vs. 15.
The word “perhaps” is an interesting word. In the Greek it means “a reasonable conclusion, peradventure.”
I love the man of God! He always moves quickly to the Word of God! He finds God in every situation! Now this great man of God, Paul, says to Philemon, “Perhaps this was a God thing that has happened. After all, did God not say that all things work together for good to them that love God?
Philemon, do you love God? Then let's think about this whole situation before we react to it. God promised there was a reason for this so let's discuss it together.”
Not only do we see that Paul sees a promised reason but also Paul sees a promised season.
B. Paul Sees A Promised Season, vs. 15.
…for a season… vs. 15.
This is another confirmation of the Word of God. We read in 1 Peter 1:6, …though now for a season, if need be…” Paul is quick to point out that seasons come and seasons go but there's something of great importance here that Paul is telling Philemon; there's a possibility that God is asking Philemon to suffer this trial so Onesimus could be redeemed!
Paul's perspective is astounding! His suggestion is a theological truth that cannot be denied! “…all things work together for good to them that love God…” Romans 8:28. Our trials don't last forever.
Psalm 46:1 “…God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” God is there! We're never alone! Nothing happens by chance! God is working in our lives but more importantly He's working through our lives!
Not only do we see Paul's positive reflection on the past but also Paul's positive reflection on the future.
II. Paul's Positive Reflection on the Future, vs. 15.
A. An Eventual Friendship, vs. 15.
…that thou shouldest receive him… vs. 15.
Paul knows the character of Christian brothers, and so he states that Philemon and Onesimus are going to form a strong bond. True Christians don't hold personal grudges. “I know you will receive him…”
Notice Paul wasn't only thinking about that earthly bond that Onesimus would make with Philemon. There was not only an eventual friendship there was also an everlasting friendship.
B. An Everlasting Friendship, vs. 15.
…for ever; vs. 15.
Paul is telling Philemon this thing is going to last a long time!