Philemon 1:4 I thank my God, making mention of you always in my prayers, I. HIS PRAYERFUL THANKSGIVING. 1. The mingling of thanks with intercession is true prayer — the discovery of a reason in blessings bestowed for craving and expecting more (Psalm 115:12). 2. Thanksgiving insures further grace by fostering a spirit of dependence. 3. Gratitude for the good in others is a spiritual grace. Disinterested love — the prime feature of heavenliness — Christ-likeness. II. THE OCCASION OF HIS GRATITUDE. Two leading characteristics of Christianity are specified as being possessed by Philemon. 1. Faith fixed on Christ. This is — (1) The absolute source of salvation. (2) The principle of the saved life. (3) The spring of beneficent activity. 2. Love of the brethren proving the faith. Such affection — (1) Impartial. (2) Discriminating. (3) Active. A grace of the heart first, the force of life afterward. III. THE OBJECT OF HIS PETITION. Twofold: Increase — 1. In practical godliness. "Be ye enlarged" is the Divine mandate in the natural and spiritual realm. Paul "prays for that very thing for which he 'gives thanks.' The most perfect need prayers for their perseverance and progress." 2. In the number of believers. The eloquence of good deeds cannot be resisted. "Everything in us that is good makes known our faith" and impels us to make "acknowledgment" of our relation to Christ. His reflected light in us will attract men to seek Him for themselves. IV. THE GREATNESS OF HIS JOY. Great heart he who could be glad for others' sakes under such conditions! 1. His triumph in adversity. Thinks little of his own troubles. Mentions them only to appeal to his friend's heart in the interests of another. 2. His unselfishness. "The hearts of the saints are refreshed." This was the fountain of his pleasure. "Singular love to feel so much joy on account of the benefit received by others."Learn: 1. To cultivate sympathy. 2. To master circumstances. 3. To commend the gospel. 4. To advance in every good. (A. W. Johnson.) Parallel Verses KJV: I thank my God, making mention of thee always in my prayers,WEB: I thank my God always, making mention of you in my prayers, |
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