The book of Philemon
The Book of Philemon
What is the book of Philemon about?
In the book of Philemon, Paul writes to Philemon who was a believer and slave owner in Colossae. One of Philemon's slaves, Onesimus, had apparently stolen from him and run away, which was punishable by death under Roman law. But Onesimus met Paul and became Christian through Paul's ministry. Onesimus was willing to return to Philemon, and Paul writes his personal appeal to ask that he be accepted as a Christian brother.
The structure of this letter is written in a way taught by ancient Greek and Roman teachers: to build rapport (4-10), to persuade the mind (11-19) and to move the emotions (20-21). The name Onesimus is not mentioned until the rapport has been built and the appeal itself is stated only near the end of the section to persuade the mind.
Who wrote the book of Philemon?
The author of the book of Philemon is the apostle Paul.
Who is the audience?
Philemon and the members of the church at Colossae.
Timeframe Philemon was written:
Written sometime around AD 60.
"In short" (One sentence summary):
Paul urges Philemon to show grace to Onesimus, his runaway slave.
Fun facts about Philemon/Did you know?
With only one chapter and twenty-five verses, Philemon is the shortst of Paul's letters in the Bible.
