A Surprising Lesson from the Little Book of Philemon

Tucked into the very short letter that Paul wrote to Philemon is a phrase that might startle a follower of Jesus in our culture. When I read it and reflect upon it, I believe it is something that is missing in today’s church.

Many churches, especially protestant and western churches, do not operate in a strictly biblical way. That is not to say they are sinning or are necessarily wrong but that they are missing something that could make them much stronger. We like a democratic model to be present in our churches. We often elect board members or elders and even pastors and other leaders. But we do not see that example in the New Testament at all.

What about Philemon?

Philemon was a slave owner and a Christian. Of course, to our modern sensitivities that sounds absurd but in the first century Roman Empire slavery was the backbone of commercial enterprise. While this letter acknowledges the reality of the slave culture, it certainly does not condone slavery. In fact, Paul acts as more of a defense counsel for one specific slave.

Paul wrote a letter to Philemon about his runaway slave, Onesimus. After giving a greeting, he broaches the subject of his slave. Listen to his words:

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.

Philemon 8–10 (ESV)

Did you catch that phrase: command you to do what is required?

Can you imagine a pastor today commanding someone to do what is required? Surely, we expect to be asked to do the right thing but not commanded. In fact, if the pastor began to demand people’s obedience, he would be unpopular and eventually run out of town!

And even though Paul does take a softer tone with Philemon, he very forcefully expressed his authority to command those under his responsibility to do the right thing.

Some History

With the reformation came a movement where everyone had a right to read and understand the Bible in their own way and to their own satisfaction. Sadly, we removed too much authority from the church. I believe reformers got a lot of things right. The unintentional undermining of the authority of the church was probably not one of them.

I will share a little more about authority in my next blog post, but I assert that we are undermining authority in the church. Pastors are regularly scolded and criticized by their parishioners, especially when they are offended by any bold declaration of the word of God.

What should we do?

I recommend three things we can do for our pastors, teachers and leaders.

First, recognize their authority and act accordingly. Their authority is given to them by God. They are accountable to him for their actions and words. They will answer for any abuse or false teaching. It is reasonable to expect them to speak and act in ways consistent with scripture, however, if your feelings are hurt because you have been reproved or convicted by a sermon or teaching, the first thing you must do is pray and ask God to search your heart. The first thing you do not do is criticize the pastor for his message! You are not the one to judge what the pastor says or does. That is God’s work!

Second, pray for them. Those who have the call of God on their lives carry an incredible burden. It is truly indescribable. They need encouragement, strength, power and love. These things bring joy and fulfilment to their labor. Pray in that direction.

Third, support them in their work. Prayer is essential but so is support. Moses went up on the mountain to watch Israel as they battled the Amalekites. When he raised his hands, the Israelites prevailed. When he grew weary and his hands dropped, the Amalekites gained ground. Aaron and Hur were with him on the mountain. They didn’t pray that God would strengthen Moses. They took practical action by giving him a place to sit and helping hold his hands up. See the story in Exodus 17:8-13. There is a time to pray for your pastor and there is a time to help him hold his hands up! Be willing to take an active part in supporting the work of your pastor. Your help is far more appreciated than any criticism he would ever receive!

The Last Word

When we recover the authority of our pastors, teachers and leaders we become a healthier church, better equipped to be the church God has called us to be. And when the church advances, so does every part of it, including you!

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