Philemon
New Testament • Book #57
A personal letter about forgiveness and reconciliation.
"Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus, and Timothy our brother, to Philemon, our beloved fellow worker,"
— Philemon 1:1
About the Book of Philemon
Philemon is the shortest of Paul's letters — a personal appeal on behalf of Onesimus, a runaway slave who became a believer. Paul asks Philemon to receive Onesimus back not as a slave but as a brother. It's a beautiful picture of reconciliation, forgiveness, and how the Gospel transforms social relationships.
Background
- Author
- Paul
- Date Written
- ~60–62 AD
- Genre
- Epistle
Key Themes in Philemon
- ▸Reconciliation and forgiveness
- ▸The Gospel transforms relationships
- ▸Christian brotherhood
- ▸Grace in action
- ▸Paul's gentle persuasion
Famous Verses from Philemon
“That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus.”
— Philemon 1:6
“Not now as a servant, but above a servant, a brother beloved.”
— Philemon 1:16
“For perhaps he therefore departed for a season, that thou shouldest receive him for ever.”
— Philemon 1:15
“If he hath wronged thee, or oweth thee ought, put that on mine account.”
— Philemon 1:18
“For we have great joy and consolation in thy love, because the bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee, brother.”
— Philemon 1:7
Chapters in Philemon
Related to Philemon
Books that share themes, history, or theological connections.
Explore More New Testament
Include Philemon in Your Reading Plan
Read Philemon as part of our free 365-day Bible reading plan. Track your progress and never miss a day.
Start Your Reading Plan →