Grace and Peace

Philemon 1:1-3
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Grace and Peace
Opening his epistle, Paul greets his friend and brother in Christ, Philemon. Within the greeting, it is clear that Paul has great love for his friend and those who are a part of the Church which met at Philemon’s home. We know this because Paul sends grace and peace to these believers.

Grace
Grace is favor. It is extended from one person to another out of love. God gives His grace to mankind in many varied ways. God’s grace is the physical life He gives to us, provision for our needs. His favor can be seen in health, good friends, and simple pleasures.

The greatest act of grace God sheds upon people was the redemption provided through Christ. Jesus lived a sinless life for us, died to pay the penalty for our sin, and rose again to give new life to those who believe in Him. God promised that anyone who came to Jesus requesting salvation would receive the gracious gift of eternal life.

Peace
Peace is rest. God establishes that His creation take periodic rest. Daytime ceases and nighttime begins. Man, animals, and plants have seasons of sleep or dormancy. The seasons cycle, allowing each time of year to cease for a time.

God offers a greater rest for mankind. He calls each person to rest from their weariness of sin’s burden and take respite on His mercy which comes through His Son, Jesus. This  is a ceasing of trying to be good on our own and depending upon Jesus for our righteousness. This great rest comes the moment a person calls upon Christ for salvation.

In his letter to Philemon, Paul does not wish that Philemon and people of His church take rest. This is because they have already found grace and rest which comes through Jesus Christ. Since they presently have God’s grace and peace, Paul greets them with the desire that they enjoy these wonderful gifts from God. The apostle wants his readers to grow in their understanding of the salvation they have in Christ and to just keep resting in the Lord.

Implication
Those who call upon Christ for rest from sin receive forgiveness. Those who have called upon Christ only now need to stay at rest in Him. They can keep resting because Christ has finished all the work to secure their place in heaven.

Questions to Ask Yourself.
1. Have I received God’s grace and peace?
2. If I have God’s grace and peace, am I enjoying them?