PLMN080 - What Happened After Philemon and What's the Point of This Book?

This commentary by Scot McKnight explores Paul's letter to the Galatians, emphasizing the Gospel message of the crucified Messiah and the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding Christian morality. McKnight addresses the historical context of the letter, including the conflict over Torah observance among early Christian communities, and provides contemporary applications of the biblical text. The book is part of the NIV Application Commentary series, which aims to bring ancient messages into today's context for preachers, teachers, and students of the Bible.

The Book of Colossians, attributed to the Apostle Paul, is a letter written to the church in Colossae. It emphasizes the supremacy of Christ, addressing theological issues and practical concerns of the early Christian community. Paul tackles false teachings that threatened the Colossians' faith, highlighting the fullness of Christ and the importance of living a life transformed by the Gospel. The letter offers guidance on various aspects of Christian life, including family relationships, and the importance of unity and love within the church. Colossians is a rich source of theological insights and practical advice for Christians today. It reminds us of the transformative power of faith in Christ and the importance of living a life that reflects His teachings.

The Book of Philemon is one of the shortest letters written by Paul and is part of the New Testament. It was written during Paul's first Roman imprisonment, around AD 60-62. The letter addresses Philemon, a wealthy Christian in Colossae, regarding his runaway slave, Onesimus. Onesimus had fled to Rome, where he encountered Paul and became a Christian. Paul writes to Philemon to appeal for Onesimus's return, asking him to treat Onesimus not just as a slave but as a brother in Christ. The letter emphasizes the themes of forgiveness, reconciliation, and the equal status of believers in Christ, regardless of their social positions. Paul offers to take on any debt or wrongdoing attributed to Onesimus, demonstrating the principles of Christian love and grace.

The Gospel of John is the fourth of the New Testament's canonical gospels. It presents a highly schematic account of Jesus' ministry, focusing on seven 'signs' or miracles that demonstrate Jesus' divinity, and seven 'I am' discourses that highlight his divine identity. The gospel is divided into sections: a prologue introducing Jesus as the Word of God, the 'Book of Signs' detailing Jesus' ministry, the 'Book of Glory' covering his final night, arrest, trial, crucifixion, and resurrection, and a conclusion stating the gospel's purpose. The author's intent is clear: 'that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in his name' (John 20:31).