Philemon

Philemon is Paul's personal letter appealing for reconciliation between a Christian slaveholder and his runaway slave Onesimus who became a believer through Paul's ministry. Paul, a prisoner for Christ Jesus, and Timothy write to Philemon their beloved fellow worker, to Apphia, to Archippus their fellow soldier, and to the church in Philemon's house. Paul always thanks God when remembering Philemon in prayers, hearing of his love and faith toward the Lord Jesus and all the saints. Paul prays that the sharing of Philemon's faith may become effective for the full knowledge of every good thing that is in believers for Christ.

Paul has great joy and comfort from Philemon's love because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through him. Accordingly, though Paul is bold enough in Christ to command what is required, yet for love's sake he prefers to appeal. Paul appeals for his child Onesimus whose father he became in his imprisonment. Formerly Onesimus was useless to Philemon, but now he is indeed useful both to Philemon and Paul.

Paul is sending Onesimus back to Philemon, sending his very heart. Paul would have been glad to keep Onesimus with him in order that he might serve Paul on Philemon's behalf during Paul's imprisonment for the gospel, but Paul preferred to do nothing without Philemon's consent in order that his goodness might not be by compulsion but of his own accord. Perhaps this is why Onesimus was parted from Philemon for a while, that Philemon might have him back forever, no longer as a bondservant but more than a bondservant—as a beloved brother, especially to Paul but how much more to Philemon, both in the flesh and in the Lord. So if Philemon considers Paul his partner, receive Onesimus as he would receive Paul.

If Onesimus has wronged Philemon at all or owes him anything, charge that to Paul's account. Paul writes with his own hand: I will repay it—to say nothing of Philemon owing Paul even his own self. Yes, brother, Paul wants some benefit from Philemon in the Lord. Refresh Paul's heart in Christ.

Confident of Philemon's obedience, Paul writes knowing that Philemon will do even more than Paul says. At the same time, prepare a guest room for Paul, for he is hoping that through the prayers of Philemon and others, Paul will be graciously given to them. Epaphras, Paul's fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus, sends greetings, as do Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke, Paul's fellow workers. This brief letter demonstrates Christian love transcending social barriers, showing Paul's tactful appeal for grace and reconciliation, trusting Philemon to do what is right voluntarily rather than by command, embodying the transforming power of the gospel in human relationships.