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Since we are created in the image of God, we are like Him, made for relationships. However, we are unlike Him in that our relationships are not perfect -- they are each broken in some way. Even though this tension exists in every relationship, God desires restoration and through Christ wants us to experience relational wholeness.

God desires restoration. He wants us to experience wholeness. Through Christ, this is possible.

Philemon's Relationship Web: Paul and Philemon

1 Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus, and Timothy our brother, To Philemon our dear friend and fellow worker2 also to Apphia our sister and Archippus our fellow soldier—and to the church that meets in your home3 Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.4 I always thank my God as I remember you in my prayers5 because I hear about your love for all his holy people and your faith in the Lord Jesus.6 I pray that your partnership with us in the faith may be effective in deepening your understanding of every good thing we share for the sake of Christ.7Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the Lord’s people.

Philemon's Relationship Web: Paul and Onesimus

8 Therefore, although in Christ I could be bold and order you to do what you ought to do9 yet I prefer to appeal to you on the basis of love. It is as none other than Paul—an old man and now also a prisoner of Christ Jesus10 that I appeal to you for my son Onesimus, who became my son while I was in chains.

Philemon's Relationship Web: Philemon and Onesimus

11 Formerly he was useless to you, but now he has become useful both to you and to me.12 I am sending him—who is my very heart—back to you.13 I would have liked to keep him with me so that he could take your place in helping me while I am in chains for the gospel.14 But I did not want to do anything without your consent, so that any favor you do would not seem forced but would be voluntary.15 Perhaps the reason he was separated from you for a little while was that you might have him back forever

Charge It To My Account

16 no longer as a slave, but better than a slave, as a dear brother. He is very dear to me but even dearer to you, both as a fellow man and as a brother in the Lord.17 So if you consider me a partner, welcome him as you would welcome me.18 If he has done you any wrong or owes you anything, charge it to me.19 I, Paul, am writing this with my own hand. I will pay it back—not to mention that you owe me your very self.20 I do wish, brother, that I may have some benefit from you in the Lord; refresh my heart in Christ.