Never judge a book by . . .

2 Kings 18; Psalms 132–134; Hosea 11; Philemon

The past few days we’ve had workmen in our home, two young men whose appearance, had I seen them on the street, would have suggested beggars, homelessness, and so on. However, these two are the finest, most meticulous craftsmen I’ve ever seen. Besides their work, they are polite, funny, and clean up after themselves with immense care. One of them speaks five languages. I’d recommend them to anyone who needs a reno.

This makes me wonder about first impressions and about the ‘usual’ way people are received because of their appearance or because of cultural norms. For instance, we don’t have slaves in our culture but in New Testament times, they were not treated well. A slave who ran away could legally be executed. While the master may not enforce that punishment, at the very least if recaptured the runaway would face brutal treatment.

A slave called Onesimus ran away from a Christian master called Philemon. The Bible does not say how Onesimus was converted but Paul writes to his master telling him that his slave became a Christian and helpful to him. But this relationship could continue; Paul could be charged with aiding and abetting a fugitive. Legally and morally, Onesimus must go back to Philemon and make things right.

While I cringe at slavery, it’s understandable that many of them were not held in high esteem. Were the scruffy in appearance? Sloppy in their work? Surly and rude? Not in Paul’s opinion. His love for God’s people motivated him to write a letter of firm and godly diplomacy, no matter what that slave looked like or had done.

Accordingly, though I am bold enough in Christ to command you to do what is required, yet for love’s sake I prefer to appeal to you—I, Paul, an old man and now a prisoner also for Christ Jesus— I appeal to you for my child, Onesimus, whose father I became in my imprisonment. (Formerly he was useless to you, but now he is indeed useful to you and to me.) I am sending him back to you, sending my very heart. I would have been glad to keep him with me, in order that he might serve me on your behalf during my imprisonment for the gospel, but I preferred to do nothing without your consent in order that your goodness might not be by compulsion but of your own accord. For this perhaps is why he was parted from you for a while, that you might have him back forever, no longer as a bondservant but more than a bondservant, as a beloved brother—especially to me, but how much more to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord. So if you consider me your partner, receive him as you would receive me. If he has wronged you at all, or owes you anything, charge that to my account. I, Paul, write this with my own hand: I will repay it—to say nothing of your owing me even your own self. Yes, brother, I want some benefit from you in the Lord. Refresh my heart in Christ. (Philemon 8–20)

This letter shows the difference that Christ makes. Paul as an unsaved person may have once had the usual attitude toward slaves but Christ filled him with love and concern for everyone, enough to care for even a runaway, and be willing to cover whatever wrongs had occurred.

Onesimus as an unsaved person ran away from his master, no reason given but indicates pride and a rebellious heart concerning his situation rather than being glad for work and a roof over his head. Then Christ changed his life — and he was willing not only to go home but to face any consequences from his actions, even humbly accept the goodness of others — which would have been difficult had God not forgiven him and changed his life.

Philemon also could tell Paul ‘no way’ but from the sound of Paul’s appeal, it seems unlikely. The letter expresses, “Confident of your obedience, knowing that you will do even more than I say.” Paul knew this man was also a Christian with a heart for God’s people. He could be counted on to show grace and mercy. Paul even suggested that the running away happened so this slave could be brought to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ.

APPLY: I’m always touched reading this short and intimate note. It affirms that God has changed my heart too — from someone who might have cringed at the sight of the two fellows sent to make some challenging changes to our home to barely noticing their rough appearance. Jesus also makes it easy to appreciate an eager desire for excellence; a rare commodity these days and a nice surprise.