1 Paul, a prisoner for Christ Jesus, and Timothy our brother, To Philemon our beloved fellow worker
2 and Apphia our sister and Archippus our fellow soldier, and the church in your house:
3 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
4 I thank my God always when I remember you in my prayers,
5 because I hear of your love and of the faith that you have toward the Lord Jesus and for all the saints,
6 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.
7 For I have derived much joy and comfort from your love, my brother, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you.
8 Accordingly, though I am bold enough in Christ to command you to do what is required,
9 yet for love’s sake I prefer to appeal to you—I, Paul, an old man and now a prisoner also for Christ Jesus—
10 I appeal to you for my child, Onesimus, whose father I became in my imprisonment.
11 Formerly he was useless to you, but now he is indeed useful to you and to me.
12 I am sending him back to you, sending my very heart.
13 I would have been glad to keep him with me, in order that he might serve me on your behalf during my imprisonment for the gospel,
14 but I preferred to do nothing without your consent in order that your goodness might not be by compulsion but of your own accord.
15 For this perhaps is why he was parted from you for a while, that you might have him back forever,
16 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.
17 So if you consider me your partner, receive him as you would receive me.
18 If he has wronged you at all, or owes you anything, charge that to my account.
19 I, Paul, write this with my own hand: I will repay it—to say nothing of your owing me even your own self.
20 Yes, brother, I want some benefit from you in the Lord. Refresh my heart in Christ.
21 Confident of your obedience, I write to you, knowing that you will do even more than I say.
22 At the same time, prepare a guest room for me, for I am hoping that through your prayers I will be graciously given to you.
23 Epaphras, my fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus, sends greetings to you,
24 and so do Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke, my fellow workers.
25 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.
The True Meaning of Philemon 1
The Epistle to Philemon was written by the Apostle Paul, a former persecutor of the early Christian church who had a dramatic conversion experience and became one of the most influential leaders and evangelists of the fledgling faith. Paul addresses a delicate situation involving a runaway slave named Onesimus and his master, a Christian named Philemon in this short letter.
The chapter sets the stage for a profound act of forgiveness and reconciliation, foreshadowing how Paul will appeal to Philemon’s Christian values to compel him to welcome Onesimus back, not as a slave, but as a beloved brother in Christ. This mirrors the message of the Gospel itself, where we are all redeemed from our sins and welcomed into God’s family through the grace and mercy of Jesus. Paul skillfully navigates the complex social dynamics of the day as we dive into this passage, drawing on his deep understanding of Scripture and the transformative power of the Christian faith. The lessons we glean here about the dignity of all people, the power of forgiveness, and the unity we share in Christ are just as relevant for us today as they were for the early church.
Philemon 1:1-3
The apostle Paul addresses Philemon, Apphia, Archippus, and the church that meets in their house in Philemon 1:1-3. This opening greeting sets the stage for the letter that follows. Philemon is the primary recipient of this letter, and it is believed he was a wealthy Christian in Colossae who hosted a church in his home. Apphia is thought to be Philemon’s wife, and Archippus may have been a leader or minister in the church. The fact that the church meets in Philemon’s house indicates his strong commitment to the Christian community.
Paul opens this letter with a message of grace and peace, which was a common salutation in his letters. Paul invokes grace and peace upon the recipients, setting a tone of goodwill and blessings for Philemon and the other mentioned individuals. This is significant as it reflects the central theme of forgiveness and reconciliation that will unfold in the rest of the letter.
The mention of grace and peace also ties into broader biblical themes. Grace is a fundamental concept in Christianity, emphasizing the unmerited favor and love of God towards humanity. The idea of peace aligns with the biblical notion of reconciliation, both between individuals and between humanity and God. Paul writes in Romans 5:1 that we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ because we have been justified through faith.” This peace that comes through faith in Christ is not only a personal experience but also a communal and relational one, as seen in the context of the interactions between Paul, Philemon, and Onesimus in this letter. Philemon 1:1-3 sets the stage for the themes of grace, peace, forgiveness, and reconciliation that will be further developed in the letter. It highlights the importance of relationships within the Christian community and the transformative power of the Gospel to bring about healing and restoration. The personal greetings to Philemon, Apphia, Archippus, and the church in their house also serve to underscore the interconnected nature of the early Christian community and the significance of hospitality and fellowship in the life of believers.
Philemon 1:4-7
The passage in Philemon 1:4-7 reads: “I always thank my God as I remember you in my prayers, because I hear about your love for all his holy people and your faith in the Lord Jesus.” I pray that your partnership with us in the faith may be effective in deepening your understanding of every good thing we share for the sake of Christ. Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the Lord’s people.”
This passage begins with the Apostle Paul expressing his gratitude to God as he remembers Philemon in his prayers. Paul commends Philemon for his love towards all the saints and his faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Philemon is being acknowledged for his commitment to the faith and his love for fellow believers. This emphasis on love and faith serves as a reminder of the foundational values of Christianity – to love God and love others. This highlights the importance of living out one’s faith in tangible ways through acts of love and compassion towards fellow believers.
Paul’s prayer for Philemon’s partnership in the faith to be effective in deepening his understanding of the blessings shared in Christ is significant. It shows Paul’s desire for Philemon to not only believe in Christ but also to grow in his knowledge and experience of the goodness found in the Gospel. This prayer reflects the importance of spiritual growth and maturity in the life of a believer. It encourages us to seek not only to possess faith but to actively deepen our understanding of God’s Word and His ways, so that we may be more effective in our Christian walk.
The mention of Philemon refreshing the hearts of the Lord’s people is a beautiful acknowledgment of Philemon’s positive impact on the community of believers. Philemon’s actions brought joy and encouragement to Paul and others, underscoring the importance of being a source of encouragement and refreshment to fellow Christians. This serves as a reminder for us to consider the influence we have on those around us and to strive to uplift and support one another in our faith journeys. This concept is echoed in Proverbs 11:25, which states, “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed. This passage in Philemon emphasizes the importance of love, faith, spiritual growth, and encouragement within the Christian community. It sets a standard for believers to not only profess their faith but to live it out in love towards others, seek continual growth in their relationship with Christ, and be a source of refreshment and encouragement to their fellow believers.
Philemon 1:8-11
The Apostle Paul writes to Philemon about Onesimus, a slave who had run away from his master Philemon but had now become a Christian in Philemon 1:8-11. This short passage holds significant insights into themes of reconciliation, forgiveness, and the transformative power of Christian love.
Paul begins by addressing Philemon, expressing his authority as an apostle of Christ Jesus. He could have commanded Philemon to do as he wished concerning Onesimus but instead approached him with love and humility, appealing to him “on the basis of love.” This demonstrates Paul’s understanding of the importance of relational dynamics, urging Philemon to act out of love rather than obligation. Paul sets an example for Christians today on how to navigate delicate and potentially contentious situations with compassion and grace.
Paul then introduces Onesimus, describing him as his “son” who had become a son of Paul during his imprisonment. This highlights the transformative power of the Gospel; Onesimus, once a runaway slave, had not only become a believer but had also formed a close bond with Paul, who now vouched for him. The imagery of familial relationships underscores the unity and love that is to characterize the Christian community. It also serves as a reminder that in Christ, social statuses and past wrongdoings are transcended, and all are equal in the eyes of God. Onesimus was “useless” to Philemon before but now is “useful” not only to Philemon but also to Paul, indicating a complete transformation in Onesimus’s character and behavior, as mentioned by Paul. This transformation is a powerful example of the redemptive work of Christ in a person’s life. This transformation serves as a reminder in a broader sense that no one is beyond the reach of God’s grace and that true change is possible through faith in Christ. This episode echoes the overarching theme of forgiveness and reconciliation in the larger context of the Bible. Just as Paul intercedes on behalf of Onesimus to Philemon, Christ intercedes for us before the Father, bridging the gap caused by sin. The story of Onesimus and Philemon serves as a practical application of Jesus’ teachings on forgiveness and restoration. It challenges believers to extend forgiveness and love even in the face of past wrongs, reflecting the mercy and grace they have received from God. Philemon 1:8-11 presents a rich tapestry of themes that resonate throughout the Bible. It emphasizes the power of love, the importance of reconciliation, and the transformative nature of Christian faith. This passage challenges believers to embody these principles in their relationships, fostering unity, forgiveness, and grace in the body of Christ.
Philemon 1:12-16
The apostle Paul is writing to Philemon on behalf of Onesimus, a runaway slave who had encountered Paul while he was imprisoned in Philemon 1:12-16. This passage serves as a crucial moment where Paul intercedes on behalf of Onesimus, urging Philemon to view him not just as a slave but as a brother in Christ. This section can be broken down into several important parts.
Starting with verse 12, Paul expresses his deep affection for Onesimus, calling him his “own heart.” This highlights the personal connection Paul has formed with Onesimus during their time together. Despite Onesimus being a runaway slave, Paul has grown to care deeply for him, embodying the Christian value of love and compassion for others, regardless of their social status.
Moving on to verse 13, Paul mentions his initial intention to keep Onesimus with him to help in Philemon’s absence. Here, we see Paul’s desire to support Onesimus and potentially shield him from any harsh consequences he might face for his actions. This act of kindness and protection reflects Paul’s selflessness and willingness to stand up for what is right, even if it means going against the societal norms of the time. Paul lays out a heartfelt plea to Philemon in verses 14-16 to welcome Onesimus back, not as a mere slave, but as a beloved brother in Christ. Paul goes as far as to say that perhaps Onesimus ran away “for a little while” so that he could return not just as a slave, but as a changed man, both in character and in faith. This transformation speaks to the transformative power of the Gospel and the ability of individuals to find redemption and reconciliation through Christ.
This section of Philemon echoes themes of forgiveness, reconciliation, and the inherent worth of every individual in the eyes of God. It challenges conventional attitudes towards slavery and emphasizes the importance of treating all individuals with dignity and respect, regardless of their social standing. Paul’s actions in advocating for Onesimus exemplify Christ-like behavior, demonstrating the call to love our neighbors as ourselves and to seek reconciliation in all relationships. This passage serves as a powerful reminder of the Christian virtues of love, forgiveness, and reconciliation, showing that in the eyes of God, all are equal and worthy of redemption. It encourages readers to reflect on how they treat others and to strive towards unity and harmony in all relationships, following the example set by Paul in his interactions with Philemon and Onesimus.
Philemon 1:17-21
The verses in Philemon 1:17-21 focus on the reconciliation between Philemon and his runaway slave, Onesimus. The breakdown of these verses is crucial to understanding the powerful message of forgiveness and grace that are woven throughout the Bible.
Starting with verse 17, the Apostle Paul, who is writing to Philemon, appeals to him on behalf of Onesimus, asking him to treat Onesimus not as a slave but as a beloved brother. This plea for equality between master and slave was radical in a society where slaves were often viewed as property rather than as fellow human beings. Paul’s words here challenge the norms of the time and emphasize the importance of treating others with respect and love, regardless of their social status. This message of equality and unity among believers is consistent with other teachings in the Bible, such as Galatians 3:28, which states, “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”
Moving to verse 18, where Paul offers to pay back any debt that Onesimus owes Philemon, we see a gesture of reconciliation and restoration. Paul demonstrates his willingness to make amends and facilitate healing between Philemon and Onesimus by offering to personally cover any financial loss. This act reflects the biblical principles of restitution and forgiveness, as seen in Leviticus 6:4-5, where it states, “And he shall make restitution for what he has done amiss in the holy thing and shall add a fifth to it and give it to the priest. And the priest shall make atonement for him with the ram of the guilt offering, and he shall be forgiven. Paul expresses his confidence in Philemon’s obedience in verse 19, affirming that he will do even more than what Paul is asking of him. This statement not only shows Paul’s trust in Philemon but also hints at the transformative power of grace in their relationship. This transformation is reminiscent of the biblical theme of reconciliation, where broken relationships are restored through forgiveness and love. Romans 5:11 further supports this idea by stating, “More than that, we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.”
Finally, in verses 20-21, Paul encourages Philemon to prepare a guest room for him, as he hopes to visit him soon. This closing remark serves as a reminder of the personal connection between Paul and Philemon, reinforcing the idea that Christian relationships are built on mutual support and fellowship. The mention of Paul’s visit also suggests a physical presence that goes beyond mere words, underscoring the importance of tangible actions in fostering reconciliation and unity among believers. This emphasis on personal interaction aligns with the biblical principle found in Hebrews 10:24-25, which urges believers to “consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another. Philemon 1:17-21 showcases profound themes of reconciliation, forgiveness, and love that resonate throughout the Bible. Unpacking each section of these verses gives us a deeper understanding of the transformative power of grace in relationships and the importance of living out these principles in our own lives as followers of Christ.
Philemon 1:22-25
Paul requests in Philemon 1:22-25 to prepare a guest room for him, as he hopes to be restored to them in answer to their prayers. Epaphras, my fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus, sends you greetings. And so do Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke, my fellow workers. The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.”
This section of the letter of Philemon contains the closing remarks by the apostle Paul. Here, Paul requests Philemon to prepare a guest room for him, indicating his intention to visit soon. This request carries within it the idea of fellowship, hospitality, and community, as Paul and Philemon are part of the same Christian family. The act of preparing a guest room symbolizes openness and readiness to welcome Paul’s visit, reflecting the biblical value of hospitality and unity among believers.
Paul also mentions Epaphras, a fellow prisoner for the sake of Christ, who sends greetings to Philemon. Epaphras is believed to be a pastor or church leader from Colossae. He is mentioned as a faithful minister and a fellow servant of Christ who labored fervently in prayer for the Colossian believers in the book of Colossians. This mention of Epaphras in Philemon serves to reinforce the idea of solidarity and connection among Christians, even in difficult circumstances.
Furthermore, Paul sends greetings from Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke, his fellow workers. Mark, also known as John Mark, had a complex journey in the early church. Initially, he accompanied Paul and Barnabas on their missionary journey but later left them, causing a disagreement between Paul and Barnabas. However, Mark would be later reconciled with Paul, as seen in 2 Timothy 4:11, where Paul speaks positively about him. This demonstrates the theme of forgiveness, growth, and restoration present in the Christian community.
Aristarchus was a faithful companion of Paul, mentioned in Acts and the epistles, enduring hardships alongside Paul in his ministry. Demas, on the other hand, is a more tragic figure, as he is later mentioned in 2 Timothy 4:10 as having deserted Paul because he loved the world. This serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of falling away from faith due to worldly attractions.
Lastly, Luke, the beloved physician and writer of the Gospel of Luke and Acts, is also included in the greetings. Luke’s presence among Paul’s companions highlights the importance of diverse gifts and talents within the body of Christ, showing that each person has a role to play in the kingdom work. Paul invokes the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ upon Philemon’s spirit in closing, emphasizing the foundational truth of Christian faith that we are sustained and empowered by God’s grace. Themes of fellowship, forgiveness, unity, hospitality, perseverance in faith, and the transformative power of grace encapsulate this section of Philemon, resonating in the lives of believers today.
After Philemon 1
The apostle Paul had written this letter to Philemon, a fellow believer, regarding a runaway slave named Onesimus. Paul had encountered Onesimus and led him to faith in Christ. Now, Paul was sending Onesimus back to Philemon, urging him to welcome the once-wayward slave as a brother in the Lord. Paul made a final appeal to Philemon as the chapter drew to a close. He reminded him of the transformative power of the gospel and the new life it brings. Paul knew that Philemon’s response would not only impact Onesimus, but also serve as a powerful testimony to the watching world. The reverend paused, considering the weight of these words. What would Philemon’s decision reveal about the true nature of Christian fellowship?
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.