This book is a very personal plea to Philemon to accept and forgive Onesimus, his runaway slave who wronged him. This book shows us how to practice our faith with love.
Philemon 1-3 Greeting
4-7 Philemon was a wonderful believer who demonstrated great love and faith.
Verses 8-21 Paul’s plea for Onesimus
8 Paul could have commanded obedience, but for “love’s sake” (the benefit of love), I beseech you.
10 Onesimus was a runaway slave who Paul won to the Lord when he was in prison.
11-14 He sent Onesimus back, so things could be set right.
15 All this may have been for a reason.
16 Onesimus was not just a slave but now a brother. You will be together for eternity.
17-19 Whatever he owes you, I will repay.
20, 21 Refresh my life as you have refreshed the others around you. I know you will do this with your whole heart.
22 Pray I am released from prison so I can be with you.
This book is a real example of how we practice our faith.
You can view this book as a metaphor:
Philemon is cast in the role of God – one being wronged – judge;
Paul is cast in the role of Jesus Christ – paid for our sins, our substitute;
Onesimus is cast in the role as man – sinners, slaves to the flesh.
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