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 (Phm.1:1-2). He was a beloved brother in Christ and a fellow-worker for the advance of the Gospel (Phm.1:2). He had a reputation for his love and faith and had often refreshed the saints (Phm.1:4-7). 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 his requests on behalf of Onesimus (Phm.1:8-10 & 21). He knew Philemon well enough to ask for lodgings with him. 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 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 … only with this letter appealing for leniency and forgiveness for this formerly useless run-away slave (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.