Philemon is one of Paul’s letters written from prison, addressed to a faithful and loving brother, seeking forgiveness for Onesimus. Based on the similarities between letter to Colossians and this letter, Philemon probably lived in Colossae.
Paul sends Onesimus back to Philemon along with the letter, indicating that Onesimus is not a prisoner, but visiting Paul voluntarily. It was a Roman custom that a slave could seek out a friend of their master to intercede on their behalf, if they got into trouble. Paul appeals to Philemon’s sense of love in Christ rather than commanding him to take back Onesimus, reminding him that Onesimus was Philemon’s brother in Christ.
In forgiving Onesimus, Philemon would be demonstrating the grace of God. Deserving of death under Roman law, Onesimus would instead be forgiven through the relationship they now shared in Christ. This is a lesson for us, to reflect God’s character in our lives, treating each other with Godly love.