Philemon: Summary & Overview
Overview
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.
Key Themes
- •Reconciliation and forgiveness
- •The Gospel transforms relationships
- •Christian brotherhood
- •Grace in action
- •Paul's gentle persuasion
Famous Verses
“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
Key Facts
- Testament
- New Testament
- Genre
- Epistle
- Author
- Paul
- Date Written
- ~60–62 AD
- Chapters
- 1
Related Books
Read Philemon in Context
Philemon is part of our reading plans. Start reading through the Bible today.
Start Day 1 →