Tag Archives: Philemon

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.

Paul’s commendation of Philemon is inspirational, highlighting a great example for us all. “I thank my God always when I remember you in my prayers, because I hear of your love and of the faith that you have toward the Lord Jesus and for all the saints, and I pray that the sharing of your faith may become effective for the full knowledge of every good thing that is in us for the sake of Christ. For I have derived much joy and comfort from your love, my brother, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you”.

Like Paul, we can derive much joy and comfort from the love and example of those around us. Your love and faith toward Jesus has been an inspiration to me, a refreshing representation of Christ.

Take some time today to thank God as Paul did, for the people in your life from which you can derive joy and comfort, that the sharing of their faith might inspire others also.