Philemon's Postcard with a Punch

This Sunday, at 9:30am, as we continue our series, Postcards with a Punch, we will be moving away from the judgemental tone of Jude and looking at a heartfelt letter sent by Paul to his friend and ministry co-worker, Philemon.  Between the lines of this picture postcard of forgiveness is a message for all of us--a message about second chances and showing mercy.  Philemon is a message about grace.

Of the thirteen letters Paul wrote in the New Testament, Philemon is the shortest, and like Jude, only 25 verses.  Writing from Rome, Paul addresses a slave owner named Philemon.  Paul's purpose isn't to confront a heresy or straighten out a doctrinal confusion.  Instead, with a personal tone that can only come from a true friend, he writes to restore a broken relationship.  He appeals to Philemon to welcome back Onesimus, a runaway slave who most likely stole from Philemon, fled to Rome, but who has become a Christian through Paul's ministry.

Take time this weekend to read the book of Philemon and, as you do, ask yourself these questions:  Christ forgives the runaway, but am I willing to forgive myself and those who have hurt me?  Can I open my arms to His grace?

Join us after the service at 10:45am for one of our new Adult Bible Studies.  Below are the details for each:

Study #1:  Prayer that Moves Heaven
Facilitator:  Martha Bailey
Time:  Sundays at 10:45am

Study #2:  Psalm and Proverbs
Facilitator(s):  Mark Hester and Jonella Malinowski
Time:  Sundays at 10:45am

Special Note:  As many of you are aware, Kent Johnson, passed away on May 31st.  On behalf of Susan and the family, I would like to extend an invitation to attend the Celebration of Life service for Kent.  The service will be on Thursday, June 23rd.  Below are the details:

June 23rd (Thursday)
Finley-Sunset Hills Memorial Park
6801 SW Sunset Hwy
Portland

Viewing:  12:30pm
Service:  1:00pm
Reception:  2:00pm
Graveside:  3:00pm

If you are unable to attend the service, but would like to send Susan a note of encouragement, please send them to the following address:

Susan Johnson
10790 NW 285th Drive
North Plains, OR. 97133

Please pray for Susan Johnson, Tim Law, Margaret Morton, Jeanette Moore and others in our church family who grieving from the loss of a loved one.

See you Sunday

Pastor Doug