Bible Book of Philemon | Reconciliation in Christ

A personal appeal for a runaway slave turned Christian to be received back as a beloved brother in Christ. Philemon chapters with summary and commentary.

Genre: Epistle. Theme: Reconciliation in Christ

• Author: Paul
• Date: AD 60-62
• Read Time: 3 mins
• Purpose: Appeal for runaway slave Onesimus as brother.
• Key Verse: Philem 1:17 - If thou count me therefore a partner, receive him as myself.
• Christ: Our Advocate and Ransom.
• Audience: Philemon, a wealthy church leader in Colossae
• Unique Fact: Shortest Paul letter.
• Social Reconciliation: A private appeal for a runaway slave (Onesimus) to be received back as a brother.
• Substitution Logic: Paul offers to pay any debts Onesimus owes, mirroring the Gospel's substitution.

Philemon is a practical demonstration of how the Gospel of Christ destroys the walls between classes and races.

A tactful, respectful letter that uses personal relationship rather than apostolic command to achieve its goal.

Jesus is our Ransom who 'puts it to His account' so we can be reconciled to the Father.