Philemon

Paul (with Timothy) writes to Philemon, Apphia, Archippus, and the church in Philemon’s house. He thanks God for Philemon’s love and faith, then appeals—rather than commands—on behalf of Onesimus, a runaway slave who has become Paul’s ‘son’ in Christ while Paul is imprisoned. Paul asks Philemon to receive Onesimus back no longer as a slave but as a beloved brother, even as he would receive Paul himself, and offers to repay any debt Onesimus owes. Confident of Philemon’s obedience (and hinting that Philemon might grant more than asked), Paul also requests guest lodging in hope of release. Closing greetings come from Epaphras, Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke, with a benediction of grace.