The Letter of the Apostle Paul to
PHILEMON
Author:
Paul an apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Date:
Sometime about 60 AD.
Theme:
Paul wrote this letter while he was in prison, being persecuted for preaching the gospel. Onesimus, a slave belonging to Philemon, had run away from his master and come to the place where Paul was. He heard the gospel through Paul and believed in Christ. Now Paul is sending him back to Philemon. The name Onesimus means “profitable”, “useful”. Though he may have been useless to Philemon in time past, now being changed by God’s grace he was useful to Philemon, to Paul, and above all, to Christ Himself. This is one thing the gospel of Christ accomplishes in those who believe it: It makes useless people useful. An important theme in this little letter is the love that believers should show toward God’s children no matter how low their station in life may be.
Contents:
Introductory remarks 1-3
Prayer and thanksgiving for Philemon 4-6
Philemon’s loving behavior was an
encouragement to Paul 7
Paul’s request concerning Onesimus 8-21
Paul’s request concerning himself 22
Closing remarks 23-25