Philemon

Philemon is a Pauline prison epistle (along with Ephesians, Philippians, and Colossians). They were all written from a Roman prison about 60-62 A.D. Philemon was a wealthy believer in the Colossae church (which met in his home), and a master of Onesimus. Onesimus ran away, perhaps after stealing from his master, and eventually crossed paths with Paul and became a believer. There was a Hebrew fugitive law in Deuteronomy 23:15-16. Paul is now sending Onesimus back to his master, asking Philemon to settle the debt, forgive him, and to treat him like a brother.

Though the letter is written to the church, Philemon is the main recipient (listed first). Throughout the body of the letter, you is singular, pointing to one person. In the prayer/thanksgiving section, Paul mentions the love and faith of Philemon, and that he refreshed the hearts of the saints. Paul is going to ask him to refresh his heart also.

Paul tactfully asks Philemon to respond to his plea regarding Onesimus. He appeals to him on the basis of love (v.9). Onesimus, a runaway slave, had become a Christian and had been discipled by Paul. His name means useful, and now he has become useful as a believer, and he is no longer useless (v.11). Though he had run away from Philemon, Paul is sending him back to reconcile and to be restored.

Paul recognized God’s sovereignty in allowing Onesimus to come to faith. Now, as a brother, he will be even more dear to Philemon, as he has become dear to Paul (vv. 15-17). Paul is willing to pay for any outstanding debt. He asks Philemon to treat his slave as he would treat Paul. He reminded Philemon that he owed Paul his very self (he had become a believer under Paul’s ministry also). Paul is confident that Philemon will do even more than he asked. He also planned on visiting Philemon when released from prison (v.22).