Bible Commentary / New Testament
Philemon
Philemon 1:1-7 opens with a widened address that includes Apphia, Archippus, and the church in Philemon’s house, making the letter personal but not private. Paul then turns to thanksgiving and prayer: he has heard of Philemon’s faith in the Lord Jesus and his love for the saints, and he asks that this shared faith bec…
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Literary units
Philemon 1:1 - Philemon 1:7
Greeting and thanksgiving
Philemon 1:1-7 opens with a widened address that includes Apphia, Archippus, and the church in Philemon’s house, making the letter personal but not private. Paul then turns to thanksgiving and prayer: he has heard of Philemon’s faith in th…
Philemon 1:8 - Philemon 1:20
Paul's appeal for Onesimus
Paul asks Philemon to receive Onesimus on a new footing created by the gospel. Though he could issue a command, he chooses an appeal grounded in love, naming Onesimus as his converted child, his own heart, and finally a beloved brother who…
Philemon 1:21 - Philemon 1:25
Paul's confidence, final greetings, and benediction
These verses bring the appeal to its final edge. Paul says he is confident Philemon will obey and even go beyond the stated request, then asks him to prepare lodging in view of a hoped-for visit secured through their prayers. The greetings…