Philemon
Paul appeals for the reconciliation of a runaway slave as a brother.
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The Epistle to Philemon is a personal letter from Paul, identified as a prisoner of Jesus Christ (Philemon 1:1), and co-sender Timothy (Philemon 1:1), addressed to Philemon, a beloved fellow laborer (Philemon 1:1), as well as to Apphia, Archippus, and the church meeting in Philemon's house (Philemon 1:2). The letter opens with a greeting of grace and peace (Philemon 1:3) and expresses thanksgiving for Philemon's love and faith toward the Lord Jesus and all saints (Philemon 1:4-5).
- sender
- Paul, a prisoner of Jesus Christ, and Timothy (Philemon 1:1)
- primary recipient
- Philemon, a beloved fellow laborer (Philemon 1:1)
- other recipients
- Apphia, Archippus, and the church in Philemon's house (Philemon 1:2)
- subject of appeal
- Onesimus, whom Paul calls his son begotten in his bonds (Philemon 1:10)
- companions mentioned
- Epaphras, Marcus, Aristarchus, Demas, Lucas (Philemon 1:23-24)
- closing
- Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit (Philemon 1:25)
Lore & Background
Paul writes from imprisonment (Philemon 1:1, 9) to Philemon, a Christian whose love has refreshed the saints (Philemon 1:7). The central figure of the appeal is Onesimus, whom Paul describes as his spiritual son, having been converted during Paul's imprisonment (Philemon 1:10). Onesimus had previously been unprofitable to Philemon but is now profitable to both Paul and Philemon (Philemon 1:11). Paul sends Onesimus back to Philemon, calling him his own heart (Philemon 1:12).
Reader's Guide
The passages portray Paul as a prisoner (Philemon 1:1, 9) who exercises pastoral authority not by commanding but by beseeching out of love (Philemon 1:8-9). He intercedes for Onesimus, whom he calls his son (Philemon 1:10), and asks Philemon to receive him not as a slave but as a beloved brother (Philemon 1:16). Paul offers to personally repay any debt Onesimus owes (Philemon 1:18-19), while reminding Philemon of his own spiritual debt to Paul (Philemon 1:19). The letter emphasizes voluntary, willing action (Philemon 1:14) and confidence in Philemon's obedience (Philemon 1:21). Paul also requests lodging, expressing hope to be released through prayers (Philemon 1:22). The closing greetings include several fellow workers (Philemon 1:23-24).
Did You Know?
- Paul writes as a prisoner of Jesus Christ, not as a free apostle (Philemon 1:1, 9).
- Onesimus is described as Paul's son begotten in his bonds, indicating conversion during imprisonment (Philemon 1:10).
- Paul offers to personally repay any debt Onesimus owes, writing with his own hand (Philemon 1:18-19).
- The letter is addressed not only to Philemon but also to Apphia, Archippus, and the church in Philemon's house (Philemon 1:2).
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