When God’s Grace Works to Repair a Life (Philemon 1-7)

 In the first message of the new series God’s Amazing Grace in Action, Pastor Chris Teien shares When God’s Grace Works to Change a Life from Philemon 1:1–7. Through this powerful introduction to the story of Philemon and Onesimus, we discover how God's grace reshapes our identity, deepens our love and trust, draws us into His purpose, and refreshes others around us. Join us as we explore how real, life-changing grace can transform not only our own hearts but also our relationships and communities. 

Key Points:

1. When Grace Changes You, It Redefines Your Identity
    – God's grace creates a new identity, not just a better version of ourselves (Philemon 1:1–3; 2 Corinthians 5:14–17).
2. When Grace Changes You, It Shapes How You Love and Trust
    – Grace produces deep love for God's people and growing trust in Jesus (Philemon 1:4–5; Romans 5:8).
3. When Grace Changes You, It Draws You Into God’s Purpose
    – Grace pulls believers into God's mission and into partnership with other believers (Philemon 1:6; 2 Corinthians 5:18–20).
4. When Grace Changes You, It Refreshes Others
    – A life touched by grace brings encouragement, strength, and joy to the people of God (Philemon 1:7; Proverbs 11:25).

Personal Stories from Pastor Chris:

• A Fresh Look at Philemon
   Pastor Chris shares that after nearly 30 years of preaching, this is his first time preaching a full series through the book of Philemon—and how studying this short letter revealed the beauty and relevance of grace in real life.
• The Power of Christian Community
   Reflecting on the importance of in-person church community versus only attending online, Pastor Chris encourages believers to experience partnership in faith firsthand.

Notable Quotes:

• "Grace doesn't just patch things up. It creates something brand new."
• "Grace reshapes not only what we do but who we are."
• "Real grace builds bridges, not walls."

Actionable Takeaways:

1. Reflect on how God's grace has redefined your identity as a new creation in Christ.
2. Ask God to grow your love for His people and strengthen your trust in Him.
3. Step into partnership with other believers by engaging fully in your local church.
4. Find someone this week to encourage and refresh through your words, presence, or prayer.

Scripture References:

• Philemon 1:1–7 – Paul’s heartfelt letter urging grace, love, and restoration.
• 2 Corinthians 5:14–21 – God's work of making us new creations and ambassadors of reconciliation.
• Proverbs 11:25 – “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.”
• Romans 5:8 – God's love demonstrated while we were still sinners.

Keywords:

Philemon, Christian grace, identity in Christ, forgiveness, reconciliation, loving others, trusting Jesus, Christian community, biblical transformation, God's purpose

This episode encourages listeners to live out the power of God's grace by becoming new creations who refresh others and actively join God's wo

Well Faith shares recent sermons from Pastor Chris Teien and occasional Rockwell Church guest speakers, along with highlighting timeless replay messages from his earlier years (marked with *). These Biblical messages apply timeless truth to everyday life, offering practical guidance, encouragement, and hope for living out WELL Faith: Worshiping, Encouraging, Learning, and Loving. Get more resources ChrisTeien.com and Find sermons by topic, series, and year at WELL.faith Come worship with us Sundays at 10:15 AM at Rockwell.church 93 Midway Drive, Virginia, MN. If this message encouraged you, subscribe on your favorite podcast platform, leave a review, and let us know what you think at [email protected]