Introduction to the letter to Philemon
The 57th book of the Bible, the 18th in the New Testament
The Epistle to Philemon is Paul’s only personal letter and also the shortest letter in the New Testament. In this letter, the apostle asks Philemon to forgive his slave Onesimus and to welcome him as a brother.
Philemon was a wealthy man and a member of the church in Colossae. He appears to have come to faith through Paul and likely led one of the local house churches himself.
Onesimus had wronged Philemon—presumably by stealing from him—and had fled out of fear of punishment. His flight had taken him to Rome, where he met Paul and came to faith in Jesus Christ.
Consequently, Paul sent Onesimus (likely as a companion to Epaphras) back to his master Philemon, along with his letter of intercession.
In this letter, the apostle also writes that if any loss had been incurred because of the slave, he himself would make restitution for it, and indirectly asks Philemon to make Onesimus available to him as a helper in the future.
Outline of the single chapter in the Letter to Philemon:
Verses 1–7 – The Apostle’s greetings, thanks, and recommendation to Philemon
Verses 8–21 – Intercession for the slave Onesimus
Verses 22–25 – Closing words, blessing, and greeting