Reading Philemon

Philemon is an interesting letter, quite different from the rest of the New Testament. Really, the purpose behind the letter is what sets it apart. Rather then providing teaching, or directions, this is a letter to a specific person on behalf of another specific person, Onesimus. Onesimus was a servant who had ran away from his master, Philemon. Paul is writing for Onesimus, begging Philemon to forgive his servant and no longer be angry. Both Philemon and Onesimus were believers, which allowed Paul to talk using common themes. Interestingly, Philemon under Roman law could have actually had Onesimus arrested and killed for his actions. Instead Paul begs Philemon to accept his former servant back, as a person, and a Christian brother.

Open Mike