Philemon
Paul
Philemon is Paul's personal appeal to a slave owner to receive back his runaway slave Onesimus, now a Christian. Paul asks Philemon to welcome Onesimus as a brother, not just a slave. The letter demonstrates how the gospel transforms social relationships.
Chapters
Book Outline
1-7Greeting and Thanksgiving
Paul commends Philemon's love and faith.
8-21Appeal for Onesimus
Receive Onesimus as a brother; charge any debt to Paul.
22-25Closing
Request for lodging, greetings.
Key Themes
Brotherhood in Christ
The gospel makes slaves and masters brothers.
Forgiveness
Christian love extends forgiveness to those who wronged us.
Substitution
Paul offers to pay Onesimus's debt, picturing Christ's work.
Key Verses
PHM 1:16
No longer as a slave, but better than a slave, as a dear brother. He is very dear to me but even dearer to you, both as a fellow man and as a brother in the Lord.
The gospel transforms social status.
PHM 1:18
If he has done you any wrong or owes you anything, charge it to me.
Paul's substitutionary offer pictures Christ.
