Pentecost Season · Proper 18 · Year C
Philemon 1:1-21
Paul's Appeal for Onesimus
September 10, 2028
Overview & Insights
"Perhaps this is the reason he was separated from you for a while, so that you might have him back forever, no longer as a slave but as a beloved brother." (Philemon 15-16)
Paul writes from prison to Philemon on behalf of Onesimus, a runaway slave who became a Christian through Paul's ministry. Rather than commanding Philemon, Paul appeals to their shared love and asks him to welcome Onesimus back as a brother.
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Commentary
Commentary on Philemon 1:1-21 Working Preacher
Traces Paul's rhetorical appeal to Christian love throughout the letter.
Philemon 1:1-21 Commentary Center for Excellence in Preaching
Sets the letter within the situation of a runaway slave turned brother in Christ.
Philemon Bible Commentary Enduring Word · David Guzik
Verse-by-verse notes on Paul's appeal on behalf of Onesimus.
Philemon Commentary Precept Austin
Collects word studies and cross-references for the whole letter.
Philemon 1:1 Commentaries BibleHub
Aggregates classic commentary on the opening of Paul's letter.
Philemon 1:1 Interlinear BibleHub
Shows the Greek text of Paul's opening greeting.
Philemon 1:1-21 Enduring Word · David Guzik
An accessible verse-by-verse commentary, widely used across evangelical churches.
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