Daily Bible Reading - August 2020 God's Life-Giving Word of Forgiveness and MercySample

August 31

Introduction

Philemon was a prominent Christian and the owner of a slave named Onesimus. The slave had run away from his master and then somehow had come in contact with Paul, who was then in prison. Through Paul, Onesimus became a Christian. Today’s reading is in the form of a letter from Paul to Philemon, and Paul appeals to Philemon to be reconciled to Onesimus, whom Paul is sending back to him, and to welcome him not only as a forgiven slave but also as a Christian brother.

Scripture Reading 

Philemon 1-25

Today’s Key Verse: Philemon 3

May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace.

Reflect

If Onesimus had intentionally run away from his master, Roman law would have allowed Philemon to punish him severely, perhaps even putting him to death. What does Paul encourage Philemon to do instead? What does Paul’s letter to Philemon teach us about how Christians should treat one another? What can you learn from Paul’s example and the actions he took on behalf of Onesimus?

Pray

Holy God, fill me with your Holy Spirit and give me a humble and repentant heart, teaching me to forgive others as you have forgiven me in Christ Jesus. Amen.

Prayer Concern

Friends who are estranged

Congratulations on completing this reading plan! You may continue your journey with Daily Bible Reading by starting the plan: “God’s Life-Giving Word of Wisdom.” Tomorrow’s reading will be Matthew 5:1-20. Jesus describes a vision of God’s realm.