Unexpected Legacies: Onesimus, The Resilient Slave

 Matthew J. Elliott

Catholic Image of Onesimus

One of my favorite stories in the New Testament has become the story of Onesimus and Philemon. As a young minister to families serving at a church in Arizona, I wanted to teach some of the lesser-known stories in scripture. My goal was to give them an introduction to all the Pauline letters and to teach them about the life lessons we can learn from each letter. With the letter to Philemon, I honestly struggled a great deal. The lesson in the story was about a slave who ran away from his master, and I did not know how I was going to teach that lesson to a bunch of children.

An interesting thing happened as I read the letter with the mindset that I had to find some type of lesson to teach the children for the next few weeks. I saw beyond the message of the runaway slave who found himself with Paul in Rome. The message that revealed itself to me was a message of love and forgiveness. It was a message of finding freedom in Christ and freedom from our past mistakes. That was a message I could run with and it turned out beautifully. Along the way, I became more and more curious about who Onesimus was and what the purpose of his story truly was. 

With that in mind, I wrote a devotional study and released it to the world. The message I saw in this short, 25-word letter was becoming something more than I ever thought it would be. In order to get down to the root of this study, I needed to figure out who Onesimus was, so I began my research. For many days, I continued researching and eventually wrote a short story about the man. He had become somewhat of an obsession and when the study failed out with a publisher; I put it on a shelf and forgot about it for several years. 

Early Painting of Colossae - Biblical History

Something in 2023 jogged my memory, prompting me to reread and continue my story. Amid a lot of changing avenues in my heart and mind, the story rewrote itself. By the end of the year, the story I had written in 2015 had become a full-fledged novel I named Finding Philemon. People asked why not Finding Onesimus, but it wasn’t really about who he was. The story was a message of hope and faith, forgiveness and grace. It was a story that I believed would help people see the Love of God during any situation. 

There is still so much we can learn about Onesimus. The transition of this runaway slave into a prominent early Christian leader offers both inspiration and food for thought. Seeking freedom from enslavement, Onesimus, a slave of Philemon in Colossae, fled his life. Within the Colossian church, Philemon was a highly regarded leader. Many believe that Onesimus stole something of great value from Philemon and ran to avoid dealing with the law. While on the run, he ran into Paul in Rome. Whether his Roman arrest resulted in imprisonment at Paul’s location is uncertain. 

All that we know about this time for both of them is that Paul and his companions ministered to Onesimus and at some point, he became a believer. This unexpected meeting would prove to be a turning point in Onesimus’ life. It became a transformative experience that would show Onesimus his identity and purpose in life. Encouraging and teaching Onesimus, Paul saw potential, yet realized his student’s past prevented advancement. With this mindset, Paul wrote a letter to Philemon explaining all the changes that had taken place within Onesimus and that he had become a brother in Christ. Knowing who Paul was, Philemon accepted Onesimus with open arms and their relationship turned into a ministry partnership. 

Depiction of Onesimus and Paul - Prison

The story of Onesimus does not end with his return to Philemon either. Various traditions offer a deeper story regarding his later life. Many of them suggest he became a leader in his own right and that his impact on the early Christian community was quite significant. He became the bishop of the church in Ephesus and there is support for this in some of the early Christian writings of Ignatius. This not only verifies that he lived on serving the early church, but it also shows how much of a crucial role he must have had. As a bishop, Onesimus would have been responsible for guiding and nurturing the entire Christian community at Ephesus. This is a testament to his growth and transformation.  

With his martyrdom reported in Rome between 105 and 109 AD, this would mean he was the bishop at Ephesus around the time that history places the Apostle John in Ephesus after his imprisonment on the island of Patmos. This shows that Onesimus lived longer than many other leaders of the early church and that he had served alongside many of them, too. The idea of Onesimus as a martyr speaks to his unwavering commitment to faith and a willingness to sacrifice everything for it. I believe his legacy is more about the transformation that took place in his heart along the way. We too can have that same legacy if we will embrace it. What do you believe his unexpected legacy is?

~ Biography ~

Matthew James Elliott (M.J. Elliott) is a passionate writer who loves to encourage and inspire others. He served in various ministry roles for over 15 years, which gave him a unique perspective on people and Biblical History. Matthew holds a degree in Biblical Studies from Oklahoma Wesleyan University, with a focus on Pastoral Care, Christian Education, and Worship.

Matthew and his wife, Traci, have three children named Leyla, Caleb, and Hannah, who bring them immense joy and inspiration. As a writer, his goal is to share love, equip others, and edify them for the greater good. He loves connecting any amount of scripture to his stories and uses his knowledge of Biblical History to do so often.

You can find Matthew's works on Amazon, Goodreads, Facebook, and His Website. He has written Devotionals, An Episodic Series, Novellas, and even Commentaries for The Gospel Daily.

~ Highlighted Release ~

Finding Philemon, The Complete Limited Series is available this week for $9.99.

A Former Slave. His Emotional Journey. Searching For The Way Home.

Are you ready to dive into a captivating series that delves into the journey of a young runaway slave who discovers God in his quest for redemption? Finding Philemon is exactly that kind of series. Follow along on the unexpected journey as Onesimus embarks upon his path of faith and new beginnings.

Sergeant Reckless: Animal Hero of World War II by Candace West

In January, I shared the story of Cher Ami, one of many pigeon heroes of World War II. During that time, many other animals served and saved lives. Sergeant Reckless was one of these. 

Sergeant Reckless was posthumously awarded the Dickin Medal for valor on July 28, 2016. She was quite a soldier in her own right.

A Mongolian Chestnut mare, she served in the Korean War from 1950-1953. Her job was to carry ammunition for an anti-tank division.

She distinguished herself during The Battle of Outpost Vegas. Throughout the day, she made 51 trips between the supply point and the firing lines, keeping the soldiers supplied with ammunition.

Sergeant Reckless in Battle

Not only did she keep the soldiers supplied, she also carried the wounded down the mountain before returning to the battle lines.

Even though she sustained wounds twice, she continued to carry out her job without faltering.

Her bravery earned the respect of all the soldiers. She even was awarded two Purple Hearts and the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal among other awards.

Sergeant Reckless Receiving Her Rank

After coming to the United States, she lived at Camp Pendleton and even became the mother of four foals. On November 10th, 1960, she retired with full military honors including her own documents!

Today, there is a lock of her tail hair in the base of a monument of Sergeant Reckless that was unveiled in 2013 at the National Museum of the Marine Corps.

Who is your favorite animal hero? Maybe you have one in your life?

Research and Photo Credit: National Archives

About Candace West:

A homeschooling mama by day and a historical romance writer whenever she can steal the time, Candace West writes hope-filled, redemptive stories that snag her characters from disaster to victory. In 2018, she published her debut novel Lane Steen. Since then, she has authored the Valley Creek Redemption and Windy Hollow series. She also belongs to The Mosaic Collection of authors. When she isn't crafting her next story, she divides her time between family and three bossy cats.

Connect with Candace:

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Not all wars are fought on a battlefield. Some are fought in the heart.

Aynsley O’Brien faces a choice—follow her deceased uncle’s demands or fall prey to a ruthless band of brothers whose sights are set on Windy Hollow Farm. Without protection, she will lose it all.

Union Cavalry officer, Nolan Scottsdale arrives in the Ozarks to find his family ravaged by the war. Unwelcome at home, he turns to Windy Hollow needing work but finds Aynsley cornered. If he offers his hand in marriage, she may break his heart again.

The entire valley will be embroiled in yet another conflict if Nolan and Aynsley lose the farm. And it won’t be the North and the South – It will be neighbor against neighbor.

While dangers erupt on every front, another war rages in their hearts. If they win the peace, how will they mend the breach between their families? Between themselves?

The truth lies in three letters. If only Aynsley could read them.

Find out more

 

March 2025 BOOK DAY

 

SPRING INTO A NEW BOOK

 

 

 

UNPUZZLING THE PAST

1990s Cozy Mystery

Edited By Mary Davis, Written by Mary L. Chase

When secrets and lies are uncovered, will Mar be able to put the pieces together to learn the truth? A year after her mom’s death, Margaret “Mar” Ross discovers the proverbial skeleton in the closet. Most families have a secret or two. Some are best left in the dark. Others need to be brought into the light of day to heal old wounds. With the help of her best friend, a lawyer, and a handsome doctor, Mar is determined to hunt down all the facts. When she does, will she find what she’s searching for? Or should she let this puzzle R.I.P.?

 

 

SWORD OF FORGIVENESS

By Debbie Lynne Costello

When her father died, she had promised herself no man would own her again, yet who could defy an edict of the king? After the death of her cruel father, Brithwin is determined never again to live under the harsh rule of any man. Independent and resourceful, she longs to be left alone to manage her father’s estate. But she soon discovers a woman has few choices when the king decrees she is to marry Royce, the Lord of Rosencraig. As if the unwelcome marriage isn’t enough, her new husband accuses her of murdering his family, and she is faced with a challenge of either proving her innocence or facing possible execution.

 

THE DRIFTWOOD COVE COLLECTION ONE

By Nancy J. Farrier

"From the charming town of Driftwood Cove comes three heartwarming novellas that will capture your heart and leave you wanting more. Get ready to experience the beauty of romance with these tales of love, faith, and second chances."

 

 

 

EL JIREH - THE GOD WHO PROVIDES

Compiled by Living Parables of Central Florida

Mary Dodge Allen, contributor

In A Mother’s Desperate Prayer, Mary Dodge Allen shares her struggle with guilt and despair after her son is badly burned in a kitchen accident. When we are at the end of all we have, El Jireh shows His hand. God doesn’t always give us what we want or when we want it, but He perfectly provides all we need at the right time. The stories, poems, devotions, and essays in this collection demonstrate the various and mysterious ways God is El Jireh—the God who provides—to His children.

 

 

 

LAST LIGHT OVER GALVESTON

By Jennifer L. Wright

Amid the 1900 Galveston hurricane, one woman’s perseverance is tested in this story that Lisa Wingate calls 'beautifully written' and Donna Everhart describes as a 'lyrical, uplifting novel.' As troubling news about a storm crossing the Gulf from Cuba swirls in the Weather Bureau offices, nineteen year-old Kathleen McDaniel, on the run from her horrific past, must gather her courage and reach for a strength beyond her own if she―and those she loves―are to survive.

 

 

 

EVEN IF WE CRY

By Terrie Todd

 “This was a part of WWII history I was not aware of. I didn't know anything of Canada's crucial role in the war effort or of the many families who hosted these evacuee children in their homes and treated them as one of their own. I hesitated reading this book because, well . . . war, but once I started I could hardly put it down. A fantastic story of ultimate self-sacrifice, love, and forgiveness—Terrie Todd has a new reader fan in me . . . even if I cried." (from an Amazon Reviewer)

 

 

 

WHEN MEMORY WHISPERS

By Johnnie Alexander

Marie Wyatt longed for fame and fortune and found herself in wartime London working as an Allied courier. But when a routine mission turns deadly, a mysterious German agent becomes her unlikely savior. Yet the line between duty and loyalty blurs when the German agent is imprisoned in a Florida POW camp with Axis soldiers who consider him a traitor. Marie embarks on a desperate mission to save him before he’s fatally injured. Plummet into a heart-wrenching tale of courage, treachery, and a love that defies all odds.

 

 

 

TITANIC: LEGACY OF BETRAYAL

A Time-Slip Novel

By Kathleen E. Kovach, et al.

A secret. A key. Much was buried on the Titanic, but now it's time for resurrection. Follow two intertwining stories a century apart. 1912 - Matriarch Olive Stanford protects a secret after boarding the Titanic that must go to her grave. 2012 - Portland real estate agent Ember Keaton-Jones receives the key that will unlock the mystery of her past... and her distrusting heart. Review: “I told my wife to move this book to the top of her reading list... This titanic story is more interesting than the one told in the Titanic movie... She will absolutely love it.”

Music For Our Souls - George Matheson - "O Love That Will Not Let Me Go"

 

When I recently uploaded my novel The Softest Breath to audiobook, I was reminded of a beautiful hymn in the climax of the story. I can't tell you it's significance to the story without a huge spoiler, but in the process, I was called back again to the beautiful lyrics based upon Jeremiah 31:3; 2 Corinthians 5:14; and Romans 8:35.

That hymn is titled "O Love That Will Not Let Me Go", and it is the most famous piece written by George Matheson (1842-1906), a Scottish minister who had gone blind at age twenty, but went on to become a brilliant scholar at Edinburgh University. In 1870 was awarded a Doctor of Divinity degree.

He was also a prolific writer and was said to have an astonishing ability to memorize lengthy passages. Some who heard him preach remarked that they had not realized he was blind. 

Reverend Matheson published one volume of verse called Sacred Songs. But of all his written works, he said that none came to him like the famous hymn he wrote on June 6th, 1882, the night of his sister's wedding. It was late in the evening, while he was alone in the manse at Innelan, Argyleshire, Scotland, and the rest of his family had stayed the night in Glasgow. He tells that some grave suffering had happened to him, which was known to him alone, but caused mental anguish. It was then the verses flowed. He said:

"I have no natural gift of rhythm. All the other verses I have ever written are manufactured articles; this came like a dayspring from on high."

Rev. George Matheson, Church of Scotland
Photo: Wikipedia Commons

Truly, Matheson's hymn speaks well to the brokenhearted who are yearning after hope and clinging to God's promises. The opening word of each stanza point to the faithfulness and provision of our great God: Love--for He holds tightly to us and nothing can snatch us from His hand, Light--for He forever promises guidance to our paths, Joy--that runs deep, and no one can take away, and Cross--reminding us of the One Who suffered for us, that we might have hope eternal, even amid our own sufferings.

Here are the lyrics to that worshipful hymn:

O Love that will not let me go,

I rest my weary soul in thee;

I give thee back the life I owe,

That in thine ocean depths its flow

May richer, fuller be.

O Light that foll’west all my way,

I yield my flick’ring torch to thee;

My heart restores its borrowed ray,

That in thy sunshine’s blaze its day

May brighter, fairer be.

O Joy that seekest me through pain,

I cannot close my heart to thee;

I trace the rainbow through the rain,

And feel the promise is not vain,

That morn shall tearless be.

O Cross that liftest up my head,

I dare not ask to fly from thee;

I lay in dust life’s glory dead,

And from the ground there blossoms red

Life that shall endless be.

The music was written in 1884 by Albert L. Peace, a gifted musician. His tune was titled St. Margaret (Peace).

Gaither Vocal Band - O Love That Will Not Let Me Go (Live)

.

If you enjoyed this post, you might also enjoy my previous "Music for Our Souls" posts, as well as a recent post by Cindy Ervin Huff: Jesus Love Me-A Simple Hymn with Global Appeal and a Grammy Winner.

__________________________________

Echoes of the Heart is now on AUDIO!

If you're curious about how Reverend Matheson's hymn found its way into the climax of The Softest Breath, you can find it along with the entire Echoes of the Heart series here.

If you've already read these books, write to me and let me know if you remember what happened. naomimusch (AT) naomimusch.com

On this Day…March 28, 1760…Thomas Clarkson – by Donna Schlachter – with Giveaway

Courtesy Wikipedia Thomas Clarkson 330px-Thomas_Clarkson_by_Carl_Frederik_von_Breda.jpg

Just over 250 years ago, a man was born who would change the face of slavery in America. While perhaps not as well known as his British counterpart William Wilberforce, Thomas Clarkson was—no pun intended—a force to be reckoned with when it came to ending the importation and sale of slaves.

Clarkson, as the eldest son, was expected to follow in his father’s footsteps. Perhaps his father’s passing when Clarkson was around six changed his mind. Although he was ordained a deacon in 1783, he never continued through his studies to become an Anglican priest.

Perhaps the reason was an essay competition he entered in 1785 about the legitimacy of slave trade. Maybe his hesitancy was due to his growing admiration for a Quaker abolitionist, Anthony Benezet. Whatever the cause, he won the contest, then read his essay in Cambridge. On the way home, he had a “Damascus Road” experience: if what he’d written was true—and he believed it to be so—then somebody—namely he—needed to publicize this truth.

He wrote an essay the following year decrying slavery and referring to first-hand accounts of victims and supporters on the treatment, transport, and lack of regard for the African person as a human being. Many applauded his attempts, and in 1783, Quakers from London presented a petition to the British Parliament against the slave trade.

Slave ship https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thomas_Clarkson

 

 

 

 

Clarkson soon chaired a committee that gathered more evidence of the inhumane treatment of slaves, and he spent two years traveling around England, promoting the cause. During this time, he interviewed 20,000 sailors, obtained examples of equipment used on the transport ships, including handcuffs, leg shackles, and branding irons.

He realized quickly that pictures and artefacts influenced opinion more that words alone, and amassed a collection to demonstrated that Africans were skilled artisans who could be employed on a fair trading basis. Riding more than 35,000 miles during that time, he enlisted the help of two ship’s surgeons who had sailed on slave ships and could recount their experiences, lending credibility to his cause.

During the years Wilberforce carried the fight to abolish slavery in Britain, Clarkson traveled and wrote anti-slavery works.

By 1794, at the age of 34, Clarkson retired from his travels due to exhaustion. He married in 1796, welcoming a son later that year.

Playford Hall https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thomas_Clarkson

 

In 1804, once the war with France appeared to be at an end, he ended his retirement and traveled the country again, building support for abolition.

In 1807, the Slave Trade Act ended the importation and trade of slaves. Clarkson then turned his attention to enforcing the law and expanding the campaign to the rest of Europe and America. While the United States prohibited the international trade of slaves in that same year, the owning of slaves within the country was still allowed.

He continued traveling, and in 1833, the Slavery Abolition Act was passed in England. Now Clarkson turned his attention to the United States. Following the Revolutionary War, 3,000 former US slaves freed by the British and granted land in Nova Scotia, Canada. Later, this group moved to Sierra Leone and established Freetown. Thomas Clarkson’s younger brother John was its first governor.

From Wikipedia Clarkson Memorial 225px-Clarkson_Memorial_cropped.jpg

 

 

Thomas Clarkson died in 1846 in Playford, Suffolk, at the age of 86, and is buried at St. Mary’s Church in that village.

From Wikipedia Clarkson Memorial in church Memorial_To_Thomas_Clarkson_-_geograph.org.uk_-_2846475.jpg

 

Leave a comment to enter a random drawing: one lucky person will receive an ebook version of Theresa’s Talent, about a freed black woman who encounters resistance when she tries to set up her own business in Colorado in 1896. Include your cleverly disguised email address so we can contact you. For example: donna AT livebytheword DOT com

About Theresa’s Talent: Theresa, a former slave, wants two things: to own a business, and to vote. She excels at cooking and baking, so the first should be easy. The second? Already suffragettes had been working for twenty years—while it was the law in Colorado, would she see it the law of the land for every woman in the union in her lifetime?

Toby, a freeman now working for the Pinkerton Detective Agency, loves the sense of adventure and justice that being a private investigator brings. But when he sees justice failing for a white man, he can’t stand idly by and do nothing. Even if it means putting himself in danger.

But, is he willing to put another in the same position?

https://www.amazon.com/Theresas-Talent-Suffrage-Spinsters-Book-ebook/dp/B0C7DPQF89

And the rest of the Series: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B9YF8CC5

About Donna:

A hybrid author, Donna writes squeaky clean historical and contemporary suspense. She has been published more than 60 times in books; is a member of several writers' groups; facilitates a critique group; teaches writing classes; and judges in writing contests. She loves history and research, traveling extensively for both, and is an avid oil painter. She is taking all the information she’s learned along the way about the writing and publishing process, and is coaching committed writers.

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Resources:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thomas_Clarkson

https://www.quakersintheworld.org/quakers-in-action/167/Thomas-Clarkson

https://www.britannica.com/biography/Thomas-Clarkson