Opening and Thanksgiving
Who is Paul writing to in the letter?
Philemon
What was Onesimus’ status in Philemon’s household?
He was a slave owned by Philemon but he ran away and Paul appeals for a new relationship
What is Paul’s request in verse 16?
That philemon recieves onesimus back not as a slave but as a brother.
What is the main message of the letter to Philemon?
New identity in Christ changes how we see eachother
What does Paul ask Philemon to prepare in verse 22?
Hes asking him to prepare his house for him
What does Paul thank God for in Philemon 1–7?
For Philemons love and faith, Faith in the Lord Jesus. Pauls thankful that his faith is strong and evident
What did Onesimus do that wronged Philemon?
He ran away
What does Paul mean when he says “welcome him as you would welcome me”?
Treat Onesimus with the same love and respect you would show me and rexognize our shared partnership
What does “koinonia” reveal about Christian community?
Living out the gospel together and encouraging one another
Who else is greeted in the conclusion of the letter?
Epaphrus, Mark, Aristarchus, Demas and Luke
What does koinonia mean?
Greek: koinonia) means mutual participation or sharing.
How does Paul describe Onesimus in verse 10?
Deep affection and spiritual significance
What offer does Paul make in verses 18–19?
Paul takes full financial responsibility for anything Onesimus owes him and guarantees it underscoring his commitment to reconciliation
How does this letter reflect the message of the cross without naming it?
Self sacrificial love and forgiveness through Pauls willingness to bear others burdens
What does Paul say Philemon will do in verse 21?
Philemon will forgive and receive Onesimus as a brother because he is confident in his faith.
How does Paul begin preparing Philemon for his request?
Starts with praise and appeals as a friend not a superior, and reminds Philemon of their shared faith and mission
What was risky about Paul asking for Onesimus’ restoration?
Roman law had harsh punishment for runaway slaves. It could damage Pauls relationship with Philemon
How is Paul embodying the gospel in this letter?
Radical forgiveness and equality in Christ
What does the letter teach about identity in Christ?
Mutual responsibility in partnership
How does this letter impact the church community as a whole?
Calls for practical application of the gospel and shows importance in reconciliation and partnership amongst a unified christian community.
How is faith expressed through partnership according to Paul?
Paul sees faith as something lived out in active loving partnership with other believers. Faith is not just personal it is relational.
What legal rights did Philemon have under Roman law?
Right to punish harshly and right to trial or no trial, right to recover financial loss which paul offered to pay.
Why is this request considered revolutionary in Roman society?
Calls for forgiveness rather than punishment and elevates a slave to the status of a brother
What does “the ground is level before the cross” mean in this context?
At the foot of the cross all people are equal
What does Colossians 3:11 say that connects to this letter’s message?
Equality in Christ. Everyone is equally valued as Gods family.