Christians That Refresh

Introduction:

We are introduced to Philemon in small letter penned by Paul. He is called a beloved brother & fellow worker of the Lord.  He and his wife had a congregation of the Lord’s people meeting in their house. While we do not have every detail of his life, we have what is important & necessary: we know Philemon was a godly man who loved the Lord. Reading through Philemon, we have no doubt that Philemon had ministered to needs of Christians around him. This is the meaning behind “refresh.” Today we will talk about how we can refresh one another spiritually & physically.

I.  Christians that refresh pray for one another.

A.    Paul specifically solicited prayers from other Christians.

1.        Rom. 15:30-31 – urged them to pray for his work in the gospel!

2.        Note also Col. 4:2-4.  Devote yourselves to prayer…

B.    Interesting to look at these two passages:  in that we find great confidence!

C.   Js. 5:16 – James tells us to pray for each other.

1.        Note end of 5:16.  Think of how the prayer of those around you has helped you deal w/problems you face. Wonderful to know others pray for you.

II. Christians that refresh are optimistic.

A.    Think of two contrasting attitudes within the church today.

B.    Num. 13:30 - people of Israel faced w/great problem – taking land of Canaan.

1.      Caleb’s optimism was fueled by his trust in God!

2.      Contrast 13:31.

C.   Faith produces optimism!

1.      2 Cor. 5:7 – we walk by faith not by sight.

2.      Numbers 13:  SIGHT said…impossible!  FAITH said…we’ll overcome w/help of God!

D.   Phil. 2:12-15 - Let’s get busy serving God in faith!

III. Christians that refresh are sympathetic.

A.      Rom. 12:15.  We literally to share w/one another our very lives!

1.      The comfort and support of brethren can really help!

B.       2 Tim. 1:15-18. How important was Onesiphorus to Paul?

1.      We need to be mindful of others! Are you willing to go out of your way? 

IV. Christians that refresh cheerfully obey God.

A.    Nothing more discouraging than to hear Christians begrudge service to God.

B.    Contrast this to those who attend as much as possible; volunteer for everything; freely give as much as possible!

C.   This exemplifies the spirit we are to have.

1.     2 Cor. 9:6-7 – This

2.     Principle applicable in all aspects of service.

3.     Col. 3:22-25 – as I work for Christ so I am to work for master/employer.

Conclusion:

A.    Let us do our best to possess these refreshing qualities!

B.    Do you need to obey the gospel?  Can we help?  Obey today!