“Philemon”

Monday, August 14, 2017

The first seven verses focus on Philemon himself. Although this is one of the shortest books in the New Testament, we do have quite a bit of information about the man for whom this book is named.

He was a family man from the city of Colosse. His wife’s name was Apphia. Their son was Archippus, whom many Bible students think was the preacher for the Colossian church.

Philemon was a wealthy man. The book tells us that the church met in his house and that would imply a house of considerable size, which would also indicate substantial wealth. Most homes of the first century were small and could not accommodate a congregation of any size at all. Philemon’s home was likely large and, therefore, expensive.

Paul describes Philemon as a beloved friend, fellow laborer and brother in Christ. Philemon was also a disciple of the Savior who shared his faith with the lost. Paul prayed for Philemon in his work, which we commonly refer to a personal evangelism. He wanted Philemon to be “active in sharing your faith” (NIV).

Paul was a good friend of Philemon and referred to his companion in the gospel as a man of “love and faith.” What an honor it would be for all of us to be so considered.

Verses 8-25 introduce us to Onesimus and tell us why this letter was written.

What are the chances?

A slave named Onesimus runs away from his master, Philemon, and finds himself in the city of Rome. While he is there, he meets the apostle Paul, a long-time friend of Philemon, who is under house arrest in Rome (Acts 28:30-31)?

Paul, even while in prison, preaches the gospel to anyone who will listen and Onesimus hears the truth and obeys it. Paul says, in Philemon 10, of Onesimus, “whom I have begotten while in my chains.”

The apostle is now sending Onesimus back to his master. Onesimus is probably the one who carried the epistle to the Colossians, along with Tychicus (Colossians 4:7-9).

Paul asks Philemon to receive his former slave back as a brother in Christ. He tells his friend that, if Onesimus owes him any money, to charge that to his own (Paul’s) account and he will repay the full amount. Perhaps this indicates that Onesimus stole something from Philemon before he ran away?

Was this all just a big coincidence? Or does it show us that there is no such thing when it comes to God? He controls all things and we would do well to realize what great changes in our world can be wrought by sincere, fervent trust in God.

--Roger Hillis

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