Philemon 1:1-25
Q.1. What kind of a man was Philemon? What was Paul’s relationship with him? – (Phm.1:1-10 & 21-25)
Philemon hosted a church gathering in his own home (see Phm.1:1-2). He was a beloved brother in Christ and a fellow-worker for the advance of the Gospel (see Phm.1:2). He had a reputation for his love and faith and had often refreshed the saints (see Phm.1:4-7). In other words, his life was worth emulating. It seems that Paul had personally led him to Christ – not to mention to you that you owe to me even your own self (Phm.1:19). He was a master of slaves, so was probably wealthy. Paul and Philemon enjoyed a good bond in Christ. Paul had confidence that Philemon would accede to his requests on behalf of Onesimus (see Phm.1:8-10 & 21). He knew Philemon well enough to ask for lodgings with him on his next visit. Philemon also knew Paul’s companions – Epaphras my fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus greets you, as do Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, Luke, my fellow workers (Phm.1:23).
Q.2. What had happened to Onesimus? What was Paul’s purpose for writing to Philemon? – (Phm.1:10-20)
Onesimus was a run-away slave. He remembered Paul’s visits and sought him out in prison. Paul then led him to Christ, and after following him up in the faith he had built him up to be a useful companion and supporter. Paul knew that Onesimus had to return. He sent Onesimus back to put things right with Philemon … except he sent him with this letter appealing for leniency and forgiveness for this formerly useless run-away slave (see Phm.1:10-13). Paul would have liked Onesimus to stay but knew that he must send the converted slave to do the right thing. His appeal was magnificent – 15 For perhaps he was for this reason separated from you for a while, that you would have him back forever, 16 no longer as a slave, but more than a slave, a beloved brother, especially to me, but how much more to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord. 17 If then you regard me a partner, accept him as you would me. 18 But if he has wronged you in any way or owes you anything, charge that to my account; 19 I, Paul, am writing this with my own hand, I will repay it (not to mention to you that you owe to me even your own self as well). 20 Yes, brother, let me benefit from you in the Lord; refresh my heart in Christ (Phm.1:15-20). Paul didn’t pull rank on Philemon but hoped beyond hope that he would release Onesimus.