Devotional from Philemon 8-20

Theme: Paul’s Appeal for Onesimus

Observation

As you study verses 8–20, make detailed observations in the following areas:

• Significant words

• Verb tenses

• Repetition

• Figures of speech

• Theological themes

• Context

• Progression of thought

• Historical and cultural references

After completing your observations, summarize your findings in a devotional format. Include any insights or questions you may have for class discussion.

Theological Contribution. The Epistle to Philemon is a lesson in the art of Christian relationships. No finer example of “speaking the truth in love” (Eph. 4:15) exists than this beautiful letter. While it was Philemon’s legal right in the ancient world to punish or even kill a runaway slave, Paul hoped—indeed expected (v. 19)—that Philemon would receive Onesimus back as a brother in the Lord, not as a slave (v. 16). From beginning to end Paul addresses Philemon as a trusted friend rather than as an adversary (v. 22); he appeals to the best in his character (vv. 4–7, 13–14, 17, 21). In spite of Paul’s subtle pressures for Philemon to restore Onesimus, he is careful not to force Philemon to do what is right; he helps him choose it for himself (vv. 8–9, 14).

Special Considerations. Although Paul never, so far as we know, called for an end to slavery, the Epistle to Philemon laid the ax at the root of that cruel and deformed institution—and to every way of treating individuals as property instead of persons. If there is “one God and Father of all” (Eph. 4:6), and if all are debtors to Him (Rom. 3:21–26), then people cannot look on another person as something to be used for their own ends. In Christ that person has become a “beloved brother.”

Youngblood, Ronald F., F. F. Bruce, and R. K. Harrison, Thomas Nelson Publishers, eds. Nelson’s new illustrated Bible dictionary 1995: n. pag. Print.

Multiple Choice Questions: 

1. Although Paul does not come out and say it, what is he hoping that Philemon will do with Onesimus?

A. Punish Onesimus for running away.

B. Forgive Onesimus, receive him as a brother in Christ, and possibly send him back to Paul to help in ministry.

C. Sell Onesimus to another master for repayment.

D. Keep Onesimus as a servant but limit his duties.

2. What was Onesimus’ relationship with Philemon prior to being converted to Christianity through Paul’s preaching? (v. 16)

A. He was Philemon’s neighbor.

B. He was Philemon’s business partner.

C. He was Philemon’s servant or slave.

D. He was Philemon’s distant relative.

3. What is Paul’s offer to Philemon if Onesimus has wronged him or stolen from him?

A. Paul asks Philemon to overlook the offense completely.

B. Paul offers to personally repay any debt or loss Onesimus caused.

C. Paul tells Philemon to report Onesimus to the authorities.

D. Paul instructs Onesimus to repay Philemon double.