One of my favorite people in the Bible is Onesimus, the runaway slave. It was a bold move to flee his master – an offense that could have cost him his life. I wonder if he heard the same teachings that brought his owner, Philemon, to faith and saw the change it made in him. Maybe he left because his heart burned to learn more of this Jesus. As I guess at the untold story, I picture Paul taking a liking to this passionate young man, who may have reminded him of a younger version of himself.
Onesimus, once a servant to Philemon, now serves Paul in prison “as a son.” He is truly useful, as his name suggests. Paul determines to make things right between Philemon and Onesimus, now brothers in Christ. Onesimus must have trusted Paul’s influence greatly to return to Philemon, an act of faith and courage. Having been humiliated, it would have been extremely gracious of Philemon to receive him back.
Evidence suggests he did receive him, and returned him back to Paul. Ancient writings mention Onesimus, pastor to Ephesus, a large and influential church. Once Onesimus was given his freedom, it is likely Paul became his rabbi. He had already demonstrated the chutzpah that marked Paul’s life and ministry.
That God would turn a slave into a pastor looks odd by the world’s standard. It would seem his past would disqualify him for such influential leadership. But God doesn’t use our criteria. Onesimus knew servanthood, and now as a servant of Christ he puts that into practice. We talk a lot today about the model of servant leadership. Onesimus could teach us a thing or two about the sacrifices a true servant makes.
God has given me unique experiences to fulfill the service He is calling me to do. Some of those experiences may look more like hindrances than qualifications, but God can use and redeem anything we lay at His feet. Whatever my role, I want to be useful, to have the heart of a servant. For I too was once in bondage, but now am set free to serve Who I love.
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