Philemon
About this date: Dates are broad scholarly estimates of composition or final editing, not dates of the events narrated. Traditional attributions and scholarly assessments can differ.
Paul appeals to Philemon concerning Onesimus, a person enslaved in the Roman world whom Paul calls his child and brother in Christ. The brief letter leaves the recipient's response unstated. Readers should face the reality of slavery in its setting rather than turning the appeal into a simple modern legal declaration.
Key points
- The letter is addressed to a household church as well as Philemon.
- Paul's request joins personal affection, social status, and kinship in Christ.
- The text does not narrate what Philemon did afterward.
Scripture
- Philemon 1:1-7 — The greeting names Philemon, coworkers, and the church in his house.
- Philemon 1:8-16 — Paul appeals on behalf of Onesimus and calls him a beloved brother.
- Philemon 1:17-25 — Paul asks Philemon to receive Onesimus and closes without a reported outcome.
Primary sources
Philemon 1:16 states:
Paul asks that Onesimus be received as a beloved brother, beyond his status as a slave; the request does not report Philemon's response or enact a modern abolition statute.
no longer as a slave, but more than a slave, a beloved brother—especially to me, but how much rather to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord.
Passage context and translation
Paul appeals on behalf of Onesimus and calls him a beloved brother.
Before the excerpt
For perhaps he was therefore separated from you for a while that you would have him forever,
After the excerpt
If then you count me a partner, receive him as you would receive me.