Philemon

Title English – Philemon Greek – Pro.j Filh,mona

Author Paul

Date of Writing AD

Theme From Bondage to Brotherhood Philemon 17 If then you regard me a partner, accept him as you would me.

Purpose of Writing This letter serves as Paul’s instructions to Philemon on how to receive Onesimus. Paul has often been criticized for his lack of radicalism in opposition to the institution of slavery. But this criticism ignores Paul’s more subtle teaching concerning slavery– that masters and slaves are equals, no matter their earthly situation. Philemon For perhaps he was for this reason separated from you for a while, that you would have him back forever, 16 no longer as a slave, but more than a slave, a beloved brother, especially to me, but how much more to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord.

Survey of Philemon Christ in Philemon Conflict Resolution in Philemon Slavery in the Pauline Epistles Place in the Canon

Christ in Philemon 1. Source of Our Effectiveness 2. Paul as a Type of Christ

The Source of Our Effectiveness Philemon 6 and I pray that the fellowship of your faith may become effective through the knowledge of every good thing which is in you for Christ's sake.

Paul as a Type of Christ Philemon But if he has wronged you in any way or owes you anything, charge that to my account; 19 I, Paul, am writing this with my own hand, I will repay it

Conflict Resolution in Philemon 1. Regardless of personal feelings, we must follow the Scriptures. 2. Sometimes, mediation between 2 parties is helpful. 3. True resolution will only be affected with Christlikeness.

Slavery in the Pauline Epistles It is easy to criticize Paul for not condemning slavery in harsher terms. However, we must be careful not to judge a writer in the first century by the standards of the 21 st. Paul actually did more to undermine slavery in the Roman Empire through his non-violent teaching than he could have done if he had condemned the practice outright. 1 Corinthians 12:13 For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body, whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free, and we were all made to drink of one Spirit. Colossians 4:1 Masters, grant to your slaves justice and fairness, knowing that you too have a Master in heaven. Philemon For perhaps he was for this reason separated from you for a while, that you would have him back forever, 16 no longer as a slave, but more than a slave, a beloved brother, especially to me, but how much more to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord.

Place in the Canon Historically, Philemon shows us Paul’s love for fellow believers of all social stations. Theologically, we learn that Christ transforms all of our relationships. Devotionally, we should be motivated to bring every aspect of our life into submission to him.