According to my study Bible, Paul sent the little letter to Philemon together with the letter to the Colossians from prison around 60 AD. Philemon was a Christian brother and slaveholder in Colosse. His slave, Onesimus, had run away and had somehow met Paul in Rome. Through Paul’s teaching, Onesimus had become a Christian, which posed an interesting practical problem for Paul. Onesimus may have become a Christian, but he was still accountable to God for going AWOL and, perhaps, for stealing.

Salutation

1:1 From Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus, and Timothy our brother, to Philemon, our dear friend and colaborer, 1:2 to Apphia our sister, to Archippus our fellow soldier, and to the church that meets in your house. 1:3 Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ!

Thanks for Philemon’s Love and Faith

1:4 I always thank my God as I remember you in my prayers, 1:5 because I hear of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints. 1:6 I pray that the faith you share with us may deepen your understanding of every blessing that belongs to you in Christ. 1:7 I have had great joy and encouragement because of your love, for the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you, brother.

We’ll read how Paul dealt with Onesimus’s past in the next passage, but here Paul, as he usually does, prays for Philemon and thanks God for the way his faith refreshes and encourages not only Paul but many other Christians who knew Philemon. Genuine Christian love is a powerful force among believers and nonbelievers alike.

Dave

-sdg-