Philemon - Chapter 1

Philemon 1.1 Paul, a prisoner of Jesus Christ, and Timothy our brother, unto Philemon our dearly beloved, and fellowlabourer, Philemon 1.2 And to our beloved Apphia, and Archippus our fellowsoldier, and to the church in thy house: Philemon 1.3 Grace to you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Philemon 1.4 I thank my God, making mention of thee always in my prayers, Philemon 1.5 Hearing of thy love and faith, which thou hast toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all saints; Philemon 1.6 That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus. Philemon 1.7 For we have great joy and consolation in thy love, because the bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee, brother. Philemon 1.8 Wherefore, though I might be much bold in Christ to enjoin thee that which is convenient, Philemon 1.9 Yet for love’s sake I rather beseech thee, being such an one as Paul the aged, and now also a prisoner of Jesus Christ. Philemon 1.10 I beseech thee for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten in my bonds: Philemon 1.11 Which in time past was to thee unprofitable, but now profitable to thee and to me: Philemon 1.12 Whom I have sent again: thou therefore receive him, that is, mine own bowels: Philemon 1.13 Whom I would have retained with me, that in thy stead he might have ministered unto me in the bonds of the gospel: Philemon 1.14 But without thy mind would I do nothing; that thy benefit should not be as it were of necessity, but willingly. Philemon 1.15 For perhaps he therefore departed for a season, that thou shouldest receive him for ever; Philemon 1.16 Not now as a servant, but above a servant, a brother beloved, specially to me, but how much more unto thee, both in the flesh, and in the Lord? Philemon 1.17 If thou count me therefore a partner, receive him as myself. Philemon 1.18 If he hath wronged thee, or oweth thee ought, put that on mine account; Philemon 1.19 I Paul have written it with mine own hand, I will repay it: albeit I do not say to thee how thou owest unto me even thine own self besides. Philemon 1.20 Yea, brother, let me have joy of thee in the Lord: refresh my bowels in the Lord. Philemon 1.21 Having confidence in thy obedience I wrote unto thee, knowing that thou wilt also do more than I say. Philemon 1.22 But withal prepare me also a lodging: for I trust that through your prayers I shall be given unto you. Philemon 1.23 There salute thee Epaphras, my fellowprisoner in Christ Jesus; Philemon 1.24 Marcus, Aristarchus, Demas, Lucas, my fellowlabourers. Philemon 1.25 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.

Philemon : Chapter 1

The Letter of Philemon: A Call to Reconciliation

Chapter 1 of Philemon's letter presents us with a personal call from the apostle Paul, highlighting how the gospel can transform our relationships. This unique letter addresses the reconciliation between Philemon and his runaway slave, Onesimus, who is now a brother in Christ. Through this text, we discover profound themes such as forgiveness, equality in Christ, and the transformation that the gospel brings about in social relationships.

Paul, with loving wisdom, uses his apostolic influence to touch Philemon's heart. This is not simply a request, but an invitation to embrace a new reality in human relationships. Let's explore together five biblical passages that shed light on the revolutionary principles of this moving chapter.

Colossians 4:9

"He is accompanying Onesimus, our faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They will tell you everything that is happening here."

This passage mentions Onesimus, the runaway slave referred to in Philemon's letter, thus showing the connection between these two epistles and the continuity of the message of reconciliation.

2 Corinthians 5:17

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. Old things have passed away; behold, new things have appeared!"

This verse reflects the theme of transformation in Christ that Paul applies to Onesimus in the letter to Philemon, emphasizing that faith engenders a new identity.

Galatians 3:28

"There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for all are one in Christ Jesus."

This passage echoes Paul's call to Philemon to welcome Onesimus as a brother in Christ, thus transcending social distinctions and human barriers.

Ephesians 4:32

"Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving one another, just as God in Christ has forgiven you."

This verse reflects Paul's call to Philemon to forgive and welcome Onesimus with kindness, illustrating the heart of the gospel.

1 Peter 2:18

"Slaves, submit yourselves to your masters with all respect, not only to the good and beautiful, but also to the evil."

Although Paul does not explicitly command Onesimus to return, this passage highlights the Christian ethic regarding slave-master relationships at the time, providing a framework of respect and dignity.

In As we meditate on these passages, we are invited to consider how the Gospel calls us to transform our relationships, practice forgiveness, and recognize the equality of all in Christ. May this message resonate in our hearts and guide our daily actions.