What is the meaning of Philemon 1:11? “Formerly he was useless to you” • Paul is speaking of Onesimus’s past as a runaway slave who had wronged Philemon. In that state, Onesimus brought no blessing to his master—he was, in Paul’s blunt words, “useless.” • Scripture often describes life apart from Christ in similar terms—unprofitable, futile, empty (Romans 3:12; Ephesians 2:1–3). • We all start in that place: “For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions” (Titus 3:3). Paul lovingly reminds Philemon of this shared starting point so that grace, not resentment, can guide the response. “but now” • This brief hinge showcases the power of the gospel to rewrite a person’s story. Everything before was one way; everything after is different. • The same contrast appears in Ephesians 2:4–5—“But because of His great love for us… God made us alive with Christ.” “But now” marks the moment where God steps in. • In Onesimus’s life it happened through Paul’s ministry in prison; in ours it happens whenever we trust Christ. The pivot is immediate (John 5:24) and decisive (2 Corinthians 5:17). “he has become useful both to you and to me” • The play on words is rich: the once “useless” (achreios) slave is now “useful” (euchrēstos). This is more than wordplay; it’s evidence of real transformation. • What does “useful” look like? – He serves Paul in chains (Philemon 1:13), showing gospel-motivated compassion (Galatians 5:13). – He is ready to return and reconcile with Philemon, modeling Matthew 5:23–24. – He will strengthen the church in Colossae, fulfilling 1 Peter 4:10—“Use whatever gift you have received to serve others.” • Salvation never leaves a person unchanged. God “created us in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand” (Ephesians 2:10). Onesimus is living proof. • “Useful… to you and to me” also underscores unity in Christ. No hierarchy remains; master and slave now share a brotherhood (Colossians 3:11). Their restored relationship bears witness to the reconciling power of the cross (2 Corinthians 5:18). summary Philemon 1:11 highlights the dramatic before-and-after of a life touched by Christ. Once worthless to his master, Onesimus is now a valued brother and coworker, demonstrating that the gospel redeems the past, redefines the present, and releases believers into fruitful service for the good of others and the glory of God. |
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