Description
While a prisoner in Rome, Apostle Paul meets a runaway slave named Onesimus. Onesimus had stolen possessions from his master, Philemon of Colossae. Philemon is a good friend of Paul’s who he recently converted through the gospel of Jesus Christ. He converts Onesimus as well, later proving effective for Paul’s ministry work in Rome. Paul writes this short letter to Philemon, returning Onesimus to him as well. Paul conveys through this letter a hope that Philemon will demonstrate the Christian Walk genuinely, forgiving his bondservant and freeing him of his slave status. The two have now become equal in Christ Jesus, may Philemon choose grace over being persuaded culturally.
NOTE: Study references include the “Holman Everyday Study Bible, KJV (King James Version) as well as the “Crossway Illuminated Scripture Journals, ESV (English Standard Version), New Testament Set. All KEY VERSES included in each chapter summary will be translated in the English Standard Version.
Chapter 1
Paul sends greetings to his trusted brother in Christ, Philemon, and to Apphia (possibly his wife) and to Archippus (their son). He then shares his hopeful prayers for Philemon, that he may grow in effective ministry and wisdom. Before Paul reveals the purpose for this letter, he commands Philemon, in love, to do what is right according to the wisdom he has obtained. Onesimus, a slave to Philemon, has escaped to Rome. While in Rome, he met Paul (as a prisoner) and was converted by the gospel of Christ. After some time with Paul, effectively partaking in gospel work, Onesimus is being returned to Philemon as a new vessel. Rather than as a slave, Paul hopes Onesimus will be welcomed back as a partner in ministry, forgiven for stealing and running. Paul asks Philemon to consider Paul in this matter, how their bond has developed out of the beautiful work and will of God. Though the civil law empowers Philemon to punish his slave, Paul trusts him to make the wise decision as he hopes to see him soon. No matter the result, Paul will take full responsibility for “his new child” of the faith. It is with great hope that Philemon chose to refresh Paul’s heart in Christ and forgive his former bondservant. For it was the will of our Heavenly Father that this thief would crucify the old life and break free of all chains.
KEY VERSES: Philemon 6-7 ~ “and I pray that the sharing of your faith may become effective for the full knowledge of every good thing that is in us for the sake of Christ. For I have derived much joy and comfort from your love, my brother, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you.” Philemon 11 ~ “(Formerly he was useless to you, but now he is indeed useful to you and to me.)” Philemon 15-16 ~ For this perhaps is why he was parted from you for a while, that you might have him back forever, no longer as a bondservant but more than a bondservant, as a beloved brother – especially to me, but how much more to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord.” Philemon 21 ~ “Confident of your obedience, I write to you, knowing that you will do even more than I say.”