Philemon

Philemon: A Slave Returns

Text: Philemon 1:1–25

Introduction

The Apostle Paul, whom many consider the greatest Christian to ever live, finds himself imprisoned—under house arrest, paying for his own lodging, guarded by Roman soldiers, and supported by gifts from fellow believers.
It’s during this time that Paul meets Onesimus, a runaway slave who comes to faith through Paul’s ministry and begins serving alongside him. As Onesimus matures in faith, conviction sets in—he confesses to Paul that he is not only a runaway but may have stolen from his master.

So what does Paul do? Celebrate the escape? Ignore the injustice?
Instead, Paul sends Onesimus back—with a letter. This letter is addressed to Philemon, Onesimus’ master, whom Paul had also led to Christ. Philemon hosted a house church and was well-respected in the Christian community.

Imagine Philemon’s face when the runaway slave who wronged him returns… carrying a letter from Paul.

I. The Spiritual Character of One Who Forgives (vv. 4–7)

The word forgiveness isn’t used, but it saturates the letter.
Before addressing Onesimus directly, Paul praises Philemon:

“I always thank my God as I remember you in my prayers…” (vv. 4–7)

Traits of one who forgives:

1. Faith in the Lord Jesus.

2. Love for all the saints.

3. Deep fellowship and connection with other believers.

4. Experiential knowledge of goodness in Christ.

5. A heart that brings joy and encouragement to others.

Traits of one who refuses to forgive:

• Imprisoned by the past.

• Bitterness and spiritual decay.

• Satan gains a foothold.

• Hindered relationship with God.

Matthew 6:14–15 reminds us: If we forgive others, we will be forgiven. If we don’t, neither will our sins be forgiven.

II. The Spiritual Action of One Who Forgives (vv. 8–18)

Paul appeals to Philemon—not by command but by love.

“Formerly [Onesimus] was useless to you, but now he has become useful…” (v. 11)

This is a play on Onesimus’ name, which means useful. Paul calls for three actions:

1. Reception – Receive Onesimus not just as a slave, but as a brother.

2. Restoration – Acknowledge the new identity Onesimus has in Christ.

3. Restitution – Paul offers to repay anything Onesimus owes, just as Christ pays our debt.

III. The Spiritual Motivation of One Who Forgives (vv. 19–25)

“…you owe me your very self.” (v. 19)

Paul reminds Philemon of the grace he himself received, likely referring to Paul leading him to salvation.

Key motivations:

1. Recognition of grace – We’ve been forgiven a debt we can never repay.

2. Desire to be a blessing – Forgiveness encourages others.

3. Obedience to Christ – Forgiveness is not optional.

4. Accountability – Paul plans to visit, implying accountability for Philemon’s response.

5. Value of fellowship – Paul names a list of co-laborers, emphasizing unity.

6. The necessity of grace – Only grace enables true forgiveness.

Conclusion

Though Scripture doesn’t say exactly how Philemon responded, the fact that this letter was preserved—and later historical records suggest Onesimus became a church leader—strongly implies he forgave.

Forgiveness is hard, but it reflects the very heart of God.

Questions for Reflection & Discussion

1. Why do you think Paul emphasized love over authority in his appeal to Philemon?

2. What does Onesimus’ transformation say about the power of the gospel in a believer’s life?

3. How does Paul’s willingness to cover Onesimus’ debt reflect the work of Christ?

4. When have you been challenged to forgive someone who truly wronged you?

5. How can your group or community help foster a spirit of grace and reconciliation?