An Appeal That Heals

In his letter to Philemon, the Apostle Paul crafts a masterful appeal rooted in the love and forgiveness found in Christ. At its core, Paul’s plea is not based on human logic or personal gain but on the transformative power of the gospel. He writes, “Though I am bold enough in Christ to command you to do what is required, yet for love’s sake I prefer to appeal to you” (Philemon 8-9, ESV). This appeal was not merely to forgive Onesimus, a runaway slave, but to receive him as a brother in Christ. What would happen if today’s churches listened to such an appeal? How many fractured relationships could be restored? How many souls could be reconciled to one another—and to God?

The Power of Reconciliation in Christ

Too often, disputes within congregations escalate because believers focus on the offenses rather than on Christ’s call to unity. Paul reminded Philemon that forgiveness and fellowship were not dependent on the gravity of Onesimus’ wrongdoing but on their shared identity in Christ. “If he has wronged you at all, or owes you anything, charge that to my account” (Philemon 18). Can we not hear echoes of Jesus’ words, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34)?

The gospel calls us to a radical reorientation: to view others not through the lens of their offenses but through the redeeming work of Christ. How often do we forget that we were once alienated from God, yet He reconciled us to Himself through the cross (Colossians 1:21-22)? If Jesus could forgive us, what right do we have to withhold forgiveness from our brothers and sisters?

When Hurt Goes Unhealed

Consider the story of Ashley, who grew up attending the church. After years of faithful service, she left, citing unresolved tensions with fellow members. “I felt betrayed,” she explained. “I brought up my concerns, but they were dismissed. Instead of finding healing, I found judgment.” Sadly, Ashley’s experience is not unique. Many believers leave congregations, not because of doctrinal disagreements, but because personal wounds are left unaddressed.

What if Ashley’s church had followed Paul’s example? What if they had appealed to her in love, seeking reconciliation for Christ’s sake rather than justifying their actions? Would Ashley still be sitting in the pews today, actively contributing to the body of Christ?

Listening to the Appeal That Heals

Paul’s letter to Philemon is a powerful example of how appeals grounded in Christ can heal even the deepest rifts. But this appeal requires humility. Are we willing to set aside our pride and acknowledge our part in relational conflicts? Are we ready to forgive as we have been forgiven (Ephesians 4:32)?

Churches must foster a culture where such appeals are not only heard but embraced. Imagine a congregation where members, instead of harboring grudges, actively seek reconciliation. What testimony would that be to the world? Jesus prayed for His followers to be one so that “the world may believe that you have sent me” (John 17:21). Our unity is not just for our benefit but for the sake of the gospel.

Moving Toward Healing

For those who have left the church, the journey back can be daunting. Churches must be intentional in reaching out, offering not platitudes but genuine love and a willingness to listen. Consider the story of Mark, who left his congregation after a bitter dispute. Years later, an elder from the church reached out, not to debate or defend but to apologize and invite Mark to reconcile. “That conversation changed everything,” Mark said. “It wasn’t about who was right or wrong. It was about restoring our relationship in Christ.”

A Call to Action

What steps can we take to heed the appeal that heals? First, we must examine our hearts. Are there unresolved conflicts in our lives? Have we neglected opportunities to seek reconciliation? Second, we must act. Whether through a phone call, a letter, or a face-to-face conversation, we must initiate the process of healing. Lastly, we must commit to fostering a culture of forgiveness and unity within our congregations.

Paul’s letter to Philemon offers a blueprint for healing broken relationships. If we listen and respond, we can transform our churches into communities of grace, where the love of Christ binds us together in perfect harmony (Colossians 3:14). Will we answer the appeal that heals? The choice is ours.