Reconciliation
Receive him as myself — the pattern of reconciliation modelled in one apostolic request.
New Testament · Book 57 of 66
Philemon
The shortest Pauline letter. Paul appeals for Onesimus — runaway slave now a brother in Christ — on grounds of reconciliation, not coercion.
1
Chapter
Reconciliation
Diplomacy
Brotherhood
In Christ
“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?”
One Diplomatic Appeal
The shortest Pauline letter. One chapter. One extended request — for reconciliation, not coercion. Courtesy, petition, closing.
- Opening courtesyvv. 1–7
Greeting. Thanksgiving for Philemon's love and faith — the hearts of the saints refreshed.
- The appeal for Onesimusvv. 8–20
Though bold enough to command, Paul appeals. The runaway slave, now a brother beloved. ‘Put it on my account.’
- Personal closingvv. 21–25
Confidence in Philemon's obedience; prepare a lodging; final greetings and benediction.
Not now as a servant, but above a servant, a brother beloved (v. 16).
- Author
- Paul, with Timothy (v. 1)
- Date
- c. AD 60–62, from Roman imprisonment — companion letter to Colossians
- Audience
- Philemon, with Apphia, Archippus, and the church in his house
- Position
- New Testament · Book 57 of 66
Structure
- Opening courtesy1:1–7
Greeting; thanksgiving for Philemon's love and faith; joy in the refreshing of saints.
- The appeal for Onesimus1:8–20
Though bold enough to command, Paul appeals; the runaway now a brother; put it on my account.
- Personal closing1:21–25
Confidence in Philemon's obedience; prepare a lodging; greetings; benediction.
Section pages
Each section is one focused part of Philemon — purpose, key movements, key verses, Christ-in-this-section. Roughly five minutes each.
Themes
Christian brotherhood
Not now as a servant, but above a servant, a brother beloved (v. 16).
Diplomatic authority
Though Paul could command (v. 8), he appeals for love's sake — authority used sparingly for the sake of the gospel.