Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus, and Timothy our brother, To Philemon our dear friend and fellow worker— Philemon 1:1 (NKJV)
Partnership Synergy
The letter to Philemon gives us some very exciting insights into Paul’s understanding of partnership. Although Paul was in chains at this time, he considered Philemon a fellow-worker. The word used here for fellow-worker has as its root the word “synergy” which reveals much about Paul and Philemon’s relationship.
Synergy is the energy or force that is generated through the working together of various parts or processes. It is the interaction of elements that, when combined, produce an effect that is greater than the sum of the individual parts, thus a team is more effective than the sum of the individual members. To function well, a team must be committed to a common vision and purpose, and must be willing to work in unity for the improvement of the whole rather than the advancement of any one member.
A team is capable of accomplishing things that no individual, no matter how multi-talented, could do alone. Let’s take a seemingly simple question: If two horses can pull 9,000 pounds, how many pounds can four horses pull?
It has been reported that the answer is not 9,000 or even 18,000 pounds. Four horses can actually pull more than 30,000 pounds! It doesn’t seem to add up but it is a powerful illustration of the synergistic effect of team work.
Paul uses the word “synergy” (synergos) to describe a special relationship he had with Philemon and other individuals. The word conveys being part of a team which generates synergy when they are working together.
- 1 Thessalonians 3:2 (KJV)
And sent Timotheus, our brother, and minister of God, and our fellowlabourer in the gospel of Christ, to establish you, and to comfort you concerning your faith. - Philemon 1:1 (KJV)
Paul, a prisoner of Jesus Christ, and Timothy our brother, unto Philemon our dearly beloved, and fellowlabourer, - Romans 16:9 (KJV)
Salute Urbane, our helper in Christ, and Stachys my beloved. - 2 Corinthians 8:23 (KJV)
Whether any do enquire of Titus, he is my partner and fellowhelper concerning you: or our brethren be enquired of, they are the messengers of the churches, and the glory of Christ. - Colossians 4:11 (KJV)
And Jesus, which is called Justus, who are of the circumcision. These only are my fellowworkers unto the kingdom of God, which have been a comfort unto me. - Romans 16:21 (KJV)
Timotheus my workfellow, and Lucius, and Jason, and Sosipater, my kinsmen, salute you. - Philippians 2:25 (KJV)
Yet I supposed it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, and companion in labour, and fellowsoldier, but your messenger, and he that ministered to my wants
Partnership in the Gospel
I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now. Philippians 1:3-5 (KJV).
Paul expressed his joy and thanksgiving every time he thought of the Philippians because of their fellowship in the gospel. The word “fellowship” was translated from the Greek word “koinonia” which means partnership or participation. How had the Philippians participated or partnered with Paul? It was through their giving – they were the only church that supported him in the beginning of his ministry (Phil 1:5). Giving of their finances was one of the ways the Philippians showed their love and support for Paul and his ministry.
In Philemon 1:20, Paul indicates that partnership brings both joy and refreshing in the Lord.
When you give in financial partnership you become a “fellow labourer” in the work and it is a though you’re doing the work yourself. As you sow, you reap the benefits and rewards.
Partnership in Prayer
In Philemon 1:22, Paul tells Philemon to prepare a room for him to come and lodge. Paul is convinced that he will be released from his chains through Philemon’s prayers. Joining together in prayer is a powerful concept with more synergy than most of us realise.
So, please consider being part of the synergy of God through all that is happening in DtN, whether it is starting up a centre to disciple believers in your local church with a DtN course, or supporting the work financially or in prayer as Philemon and the Philippians supported Paul.
If you would like to support DtN financially our bank details are:
Sort code 20-77-85, Account Number 83860280.
If you would like a receipt please include your name, house number and postcode in the reference. If you would like to gift aid your donation, please email hellp@dtn.academy.
Donations can be directed towards either General administration & development costs or Bursary funding where you specifically invest in students’ training.
Unless specified, funds will be directed to General costs.
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