Commentary on Philemon

Contents

In a few places the lemma printed in a passage belongs to a neighbouring verse (the digital text misnumbers verses); the passage keeps its staged number.

1. 0.1The prologue explains that Paul writes to Philemon, a layman, asking him to receive back his slave Onesimus as a brother.
2. 1.1Paul begins from his chains for Christ, a mark of glory, and calls Philemon, though not a cleric, a partner because he served the church’s needs.
3. 1.4Paul thanks God for Philemon’s faith and generosity to the saints and prays that he will give with an eye to the future reward.
4. 1.7Paul rejoices at Philemon’s care for the saints and is sure he will also heed Paul’s request.
5. 1.8Paul, though able to command, appeals in love to Philemon, as one bound like himself to the Lord’s work, like Judas and Silas.
6. 1.10Paul, who baptized the runaway Onesimus in his Roman custody, humbly asks rather than commands Philemon to receive him back, now useful to both.
7. 1.15Onesimus’s flight led to his conversion, so that he returns as Philemon’s brother, since all descend from Adam and faith removes pride.
8. 1.17Paul asks Philemon to receive Onesimus as he would Paul himself, adding a warning from Sirach that free men serve a wise slave.
9. 1.18Paul removes any excuse for anger by taking Onesimus’s debts on himself.
10. 1.19Paul signs a pledge to repay, while reminding Philemon that he owes Paul his very self.
11. 1.20Paul gently expresses confidence that Philemon will do even more than he asks.
12. 1.22Paul announces a visit to strengthen Philemon’s obedience, and willingly stays in this life of sufferings for the good of believers.
13. 1.23Paul sends greetings from his fellow workers.
14. 1.25Paul’s closing blessing confirms the letter.