The Letter to Philemon(2 Studies)

Laindon Bible Study10th November 2011

“I Paul have written it with

mine own hand”

Part 1

The whole letter on a slide

Paul, a prisoner of Jesus Christ, and Timothy our brother, unto Philemon our dearly beloved, and fellowlabourer, And to our beloved Apphia, and Archippus our fellowsoldier,

and to the church in thy house: Grace to you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. I thank my God, making mention of thee always in my prayers, Hearing of thy love and faith, which thou hast toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all saints; That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus. For we have great joy and consolation in thy love, because the bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee, brother. Wherefore, though I might be much bold in Christ to enjoin thee that which is convenient, Yet for love's sake I rather beseech thee, being such an one as Paul the aged, and

now also a prisoner of Jesus Christ. I beseech thee for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten in my bonds: Which in time past was to thee unprofitable, but now profitable to thee and to me: Whom I have sent again: thou therefore receive him, that is, mine own bowels: Whom I would have retained with me, that in thy stead he might

have ministered unto me in the bonds of the gospel: But without thy mind would I do nothing; that thy benefit should not be as it were of necessity, but willingly. For perhaps he therefore departed for a season, that thou

shouldest receive him for ever; Not now as a servant, but above a servant, a brother beloved, specially to me, but how much more unto thee, both in the flesh, and in the Lord? If thou count me therefore a partner, receive him as myself. If he hath wronged thee, or oweth thee ought, put that on mine account; I Paul have written it with mine

own hand, I will repay it: albeit I do not say to thee how thou owest unto me even thine own self besides. Yea, brother, let me have joy of thee in the Lord: refresh my bowels in the Lord. Having confidence in thy obedience I wrote unto thee, knowing that thou wilt also do more than I say. But withal prepare me also a lodging: for I trust

that through your prayers I shall be given unto you. There salute thee Epaphras, my fellowprisoner in Christ Jesus; Marcus, Aristarchus, Demas, Lucas, my fellowlabourers.

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.25 verses 445 words

“ T h e B o o k o f R e c o n c i l i a ti o n ”

A word frequency picture

Our brother v.1Thee, brother v.7A brother v.16Yea, brother v.20

Prisoner v.1Prisoner v.9Fellowprisoner v.23 Fellowlabourer v.1

Fellowsoldier v.2Fellowprisoner v.23Fellowlabourers v.24

An appeal to Brotherly love and fellowship...

Overall parallel – Parable of the Prodigal SonLuke chapter 15 verses 11-3211 And he said, A certain man had two sons: 12 And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth to me. And

he divided unto them his living. 13 And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living. 14 And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land;

and he began to be in want. 15 And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine. 16 And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him. 17 And when he came to himself,

he said, How many hired servants of my father's have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger! 18 I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee, 19 And am no more worthy to be called thy

son: make me as one of thy hired servants. 20 And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him. 21 And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son. 22 But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet: 23 And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry: 24 For this my son was dead, and is alive

again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry. 25 Now his elder son was in the field: and as he came and drew nigh to the house, he heard musick and dancing. 26 And he called one of the servants, and asked what these things meant. 27 And he said unto him, Thy brother is come; and thy father hath killed the fatted calf, because he hath received him safe and sound. 28 And he was angry, and would not go in: therefore came his father out, and intreated him. 29 And he answering said to his father, Lo, these many years do I serve thee, neither transgressed I at any time thy commandment: and yet thou never gavest me a kid, that I might make merry with my friends: 30 But as soon as this thy son was come, which hath devoured thy living with harlots, thou hast killed for him the fatted calf. 31 And he said unto him, Son, thou art ever with me, and all that I have is thine. 32 It was meet that we should make merry, and be glad: for this thy brother was dead, and is alive again; and was lost, and is found.

Onesimus “my [Paul’s] son” (v.10) “departed for a season” (v.16), seemingly having “wronged” and ‘owing’ (v.18)

He “ministered unto me” [Paul], serving a Roman citizen (v.13)

His life changed direction (v.11)

Paul asked Philemon to “receive” back Onesimus with compassion (v.15) and for there to be “joy” (v.20)

Our two studies

Background,themes

and shape

The first elevenverses

The last fourteen

verses

Conclusions and

lessons

Today Next week (God willing)

Background

From where and when• One of Paul’s ‘prison letters’

– “Paul, a prisoner of [RSV for] Jesus Christ” v.1– “now also a prisoner of [RSV for] Jesus Christ” v.9– “Onesimus... begotten in my bonds” v.10– “ministered unto me in the bonds of the gospel” v.13– “Epaphras, my fellowprisoner” v.23

Acts chapter 28 verses 30-31

30 And Paul dwelt two whole years in his own hired house, and received all that came in unto him, 31 Preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence, no man forbidding him.

Which imprisonment

?

From where and when• One of Paul’s ‘prison letters’

– “Paul, a prisoner of [RSV for] Jesus Christ” v.1– “now also a prisoner of [RSV for] Jesus Christ” v.9– “Onesimus... begotten in my bonds” v.10– “ministered unto me in the bonds of the gospel” v.13– “Epaphras, my fellowprisoner” v.23

Acts chapter 28 verses 30-31

30 And Paul dwelt two whole years in his own hired house, and received all that came in unto him, 31 Preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence, no man forbidding him.

Which imprisonment

?

To Philemon, Colossae(?)

Colossians ch. 4 verses 16-1816 And when this epistle is read among you, cause that it be read also in the church of the Laodiceans; and that ye likewise read the epistle from Laodicea. 17 And say to Archippus, Take heed to the ministry which thou hast received in the Lord, that thou fulfil it. 18 The salutation by the hand of me Paul. Remember my bonds. Grace be with you. Amen.

Philemon verses 1-21 Paul, a prisoner of Jesus Christ, and Timothy our brother, unto Philemon our dearly beloved, and fellowlabourer, 2 And to our beloved Apphia, and Archippus our fellowsoldier, and to the church in thy house:

Chapter 4 verses 7-97 All my state shall Tychicus declare unto you, who is a beloved brother, and a faithful minister and fellowservant in the Lord: 8 Whom I have sent unto you for the same purpose, that he might know your estate, and comfort your hearts; 9 With Onesimus, a faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They shall make known unto you all things which are done here.

Ch. 4 verses 10, 12, 1410 Aristarchus my fellowprisoner saluteth you, and Marcus, sister's son to Barnabas...12 Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ, saluteth you, always labouring fervently for you...14 Luke, the beloved physician, and Demas, greet you.

Verses 23-24

23 There salute thee Epaphras, my fellowprisoner in Christ Jesus; 24 Marcus, Aristarchus, Demas, Lucas, my fellowlabourers.

An interesting connectionColossians chapter 3 verse 22 – chapter 4 verse 1

22 Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God:23 And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;24 Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.25 But he that doeth wrong shall receive for the wrong which he hath done: and there is no respect of persons.4v1 Masters, give unto your servants that which is just and equal; knowing that ye also have a Master in heaven.

Also a major topic of Epistle to Ephesians, written at same time, see ch. 6 v 5-9

An example outline of the letter

Themes and shape

• The book’s simple allegory

• The importance of mercy, not the rights and wrongs of the situation

The relevance of the Epistle to us

MasterPhilemon

[Allegory = God]

MediatorPaul

[Allegory = Christ]

SlaveOnesimus

[Allegory = Us]

“Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.”

(Matthew 5v7)

The tone set, opening 3 words

• Romans “Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ”• 1 Corinthians “Paul, called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ”• 2 Corinthians “Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ”• Galatians “Paul, an apostle”• Ephesians “Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ”• Philippians “Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ”• Colossians “Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ”• 1 Thessalonians “Paul, and Silvanus, and Timotheus, unto the church”• 2 Thessalonians “Paul, and Silvanus, and Timotheus, unto the church”• 1 Timothy “Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ”• 2 Timothy “Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ”• Titus “Paul, a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus

Christ”

“Paul, a prisoner”

The telling contrasts/comparisons

Paul’s approach “I might be much bold in Christ” v.8

“for love’s sake I rather beseech thee” v.9

Paul & Onesimus “Paul the aged” v.9 “my son Onesimus” v.10

Onesimus’ value “unprofitable” v.11“profitable” v.11

(Onesimus = ‘the useful one’ ‘profitable’ ‘helpful’)

Philemon’s service “the bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee” v.7

“in thy stead he [Onesimus] might have ministered unto me” v.13

Paul’s choice “I would have retained” v.13 “I have sent again” v.12

Onesimus’ position “departed for a season” v.15 “receive him for ever” v.15

Onesimus’ status “a servant” v.16“in the flesh” v.16

“a brother beloved” v.16“in the Lord” v.16

Paul’s approach “I might be much bold in Christ” v.8

“for love’s sake I rather beseech thee” v.9

Paul & Onesimus “Paul the aged” v.9 “my son Onesimus” v.10

Onesimus’ value “unprofitable” v.11“profitable” v.11

(Onesimus = ‘the useful one’ ‘profitable’ ‘helpful’)

Philemon’s service “the bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee” v.7

“in thy stead he [Onesimus] might have ministered unto me” v.13

Paul’s choice “I would have retained” v.13 “I have sent again” v.12

Onesimus’ position “departed for a season” v.15 “receive him for ever” v.15

Paul’s approach “I might be much bold in Christ” v.8

“for love’s sake I rather beseech thee” v.9

Paul & Onesimus “Paul the aged” v.9 “my son Onesimus” v.10

Onesimus’ value “unprofitable” v.11“profitable” v.11

(Onesimus = ‘the useful one’ ‘profitable’ ‘helpful’)

Philemon’s service “the bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee” v.7

“in thy stead he [Onesimus] might have ministered unto me” v.13

Paul’s choice “I would have retained” v.13 “I have sent again” v.12

Paul’s approach “I might be much bold in Christ” v.8

“for love’s sake I rather beseech thee” v.9

Paul & Onesimus “Paul the aged” v.9 “my son Onesimus” v.10

Onesimus’ value “unprofitable” v.11“profitable” v.11

(Onesimus = ‘the useful one’ ‘profitable’ ‘helpful’)

Philemon’s service “the bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee” v.7

“in thy stead he [Onesimus] might have ministered unto me” v.13

Paul’s approach “I might be much bold in Christ” v.8

“for love’s sake I rather beseech thee” v.9

Paul & Onesimus “Paul the aged” v.9 “my son Onesimus” v.10

Onesimus’ value “unprofitable” v.11“profitable” v.11

(Onesimus = ‘the useful one’ ‘profitable’ ‘helpful’)

Paul’s approach “I might be much bold in Christ” v.8

“for love’s sake I rather beseech thee” v.9

Paul & Onesimus “Paul the aged” v.9 “my son Onesimus” v.10

Paul’s approach “I might be much bold in Christ” v.8

“for love’s sake I rather beseech thee” v.9

Many appeals (at least 16 angles)The basis of the appeal Verse(s)

Paul’s position – a prisoner 1, 9, 10, 13, 23Paul’s relationship – with beloved Philemon 1-2God’s grace – active in the life of Philemon 3, 25Paul’s prayers – for Philemon 4Philemon’s reputation – for good works 5Paul’s restraint – beseeching, not demanding 8-9Paul’s age – no longer a young man 9Paul’s begettal – of his son Onesimus 10Onesimus’ service – to Paul in prison 13Onesimus’ new state – a brother 16Paul’s offer – to repay any debt 18Paul’s writing – personally to Philemon 19Philemon’s debt – to Paul his converter 19Paul’s wish – to receive joy from Philemon 20Paul’s confidence – in Philemon’s obedience 21Paul’s desire – to visit Philemon again 22

Verses 1 - 11

Greetings & commendation• “Philemon” = ‘friendly’ (Strong)• “Timothy”/Timotheus mentioned, who was

with Paul in Rome during 1st imprisonment (see Philippians 1v1, 12-14, 2v19)

• “ Apphia” = probably Philemon’s wife; “beloved” = feminine i.e. ‘sister’ (Strong), as RSV, ESV and NET each have this

• “Archippus” = probably Philemon’s son• “The church in thy house” = suggests

Philemon prosperous (also had a slave and a place for lodging guests v.22)

• “Grace” and “peace” intimately connected (found together in every single one of the salutations to Paul’s Epistles)

Philemon verses 1-3

1 Paul, a prisoner of Jesus Christ, and Timothy our brother, unto Philemon our dearly beloved, and fellowlabourer,2 And to our beloved Apphia, and Archippus our fellowsoldier, and to the church in thy house:3 Grace to you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Philemon’s character• How are we to understand v. 4?

Did every prayer of Paul include Philemon? Probably better as...– “I thank my God always when I

remember you in my prayers,” (ESV)– “I always thank my God as I remember

you in my prayers,” (NET)

• To have love toward “all saints” is first to have love “toward the Lord Jesus” (as in Matthew 25v40)

• A vibrant and active believer:– “Communication” = Gk. koinonia =

partnership, fellowship (played on in verse 17, “If thou count me therefore a partner” = Gk. koinonos)

– “Effectual” = Gk. energes = in work, powerful* (* as translated Heb. 4v12)

Philemon verses 4-7

4 I thank my God, making mention of thee always in my prayers,5 Hearing of thy love and faith, which thou hast toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all saints;6 That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus.7 For we have great joy and consolation in thy love, because the bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee, brother.

The plea• Paul could have used his Apostolic

credentials to force this situation but he chose not to, following Peter’s guidance to elders:

• Convenient = Gk. aneko = fit, proper• Twice Philemon is beseeched across

verses 9-10, but the subject matter of letter only revealed in verse 10 itself!

Philemon verses 8-11

8 Wherefore, though I might be much bold in Christ to enjoin thee that which is convenient,9 Yet for love's sake I rather beseech thee, being such an one as Paul the aged, and now also a prisoner of Jesus Christ.10 I beseech thee for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten in my bonds:11 Which in time past was to thee unprofitable, but now profitable to thee and to me:

1 Peter chapter 5 verses 2-3

“Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; Neither as being lords over God's heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.”

“Receive your run-away slave, now brother, Onesimus. Paul”

The story so far...• The thoughtful prisoner, Paul in ‘dire straits’

but thinking only of the welfare of others• The tactful appeal, no mistaking its intention

but altogether balanced (did not deny the wrongdoing of the ‘Prodigal son’)

• The build up, Onesimus only mentioned by name as the 167th word of the Epistle (almost ⅖ way through)

• The continued beseeching, for the run-away...

Our two studies

Background,themes

and shape

The first elevenverses

The last fourteen

verses

Conclusions and

lessons

Today Next week (God willing)

The Letter to Philemon(2 Studies)

Laindon Bible Study17th November 2011 (Gw)

“I Paul have written it with

mine own hand”

Part 2