Philemon

Author: the apostle Paul
Place of writing: Rome
Time of Writing: 60 or 61 A.D.

Philemon, the recipient of this letter, was a Colossian believer in Christ, as well as a slave-owner. When Onesimus, one of his slaves, ran away to Rome, he encountered Paul in prison, and there became a believer. Paul sent him back to Philemon carrying the letter to the Colossian church (cf. Colossians 4:9), as well as this letter, in which Paul pleads for Onesimus’ freedom.

Paul first gives thanks for Philemon’s genuine faith and love, and then, forbearing to use his apostolic authority, he pleads with Philemon to take Onesimus back, not as a slave, but as a brother in Christ, reminding him through a play on words (Onesimus’ name means “profitable”) that he is far more profitable as a fellow-believer than a mere slave. Although this letter is brief, it has a very practical application for us today: the gospel breaks down all barriers and divisions. Jesus’ love is not bound to any one class of society, but calls out believers from all circumstances. And when they have been united in Christ, all are equal in him, regardless of their outward station in life.

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