GREETINGS Though Paul was a prisoner of Rome, he considered his bonds to be a means of furthering Christ's cause (Philemon 1:1; Philemon 1:9-10; Philemon 1:22-23; 1 Peter 1:12-14). Timothy was with Paul at the time of writing. He may have written down the apostle's words as he dictated them to him.... [ Continue Reading ]
PHILEMON'S LOVE AND FAITH Paul regularly thanked God for Philemon as he approached the throne of grace in prayer (Philemon 1:4). Here again we have an indication of the prayerfulness of the apostle Paul. Not only that, but we are reminded that he prayed for his friends. Paul was definite and speci... [ Continue Reading ]
A SPECIAL REQUEST FOR ONESIMUS Knowing Philemon shared out of love for the brethren, Paul made a request. As an apostle, he could have commanded but he set it forth as a plea based upon the love found in the family of God. Philemon had been especially good at demonstrating love for the other member... [ Continue Reading ]
PHILEMON ENCOURAGED Remember, Paul considered Philemon to be a fellow worker, or partner, in the spreading of the gospel (verse 1). On the basis of such a partnership, Philemon should have been ready to receive one of Paul's converts as he would receive Paul himself (Philemon 1:17). Paul realized t... [ Continue Reading ]
CLOSING REMARKS In the Colossian letter (Colossians 1:7; Colossians 4:12), Epaphras is portrayed as one of the Colossians and a minister among them. He, like Paul, was imprisoned. He joined Paul in sending greetings to this good family and the church meeting in their house. John Mark and Aristarchus... [ Continue Reading ]