Book introduction
The book of Philemon
Philemon is a one-page letter from Paul about Onesimus, a slave who ran away from Philemon and became a Christian through Paul. Paul sends him back and asks Philemon to receive him as a brother.
Who wrote Philemon?
Paul, with Timothy. Scholars agree it is his.
When was it written?
About AD 60–62, from prison.
Main themes
- A brother, not a slave
- The gospel changes how Philemon must see Onesimus.
- Reconciliation
- Paul offers to pay any debt himself.
- Love that asks, not orders
- Paul appeals rather than commands.
Outline of Philemon
Key verses
I pray that your partnership in the faith may become effective as you come to know fully every good thing that is in us for Christ.
For perhaps this is why he was separated from you for a short time, so that you might have him back forever, no longer as a slave but more than a slave, as a dear brother. He is especially dear to me, but how much more to you, both as a man and in the Lord.
Quoted from the Lumin Translation.
Where to start
25 verses. Read it in one go.
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