Book Study: Philemon

Book Overview

Philemon is a letter written by Paul in prison to Philemon who hosts a church in his house. Paul is desiring Philemon to receive back Onesimus, a runaway slave. Onesimus has now received Christ and Paul asks Philemon to restore him and put in Paul’s tab any amount Onesimus may owe. Confident in Philemon’s obedience Paul concludes the letter hoping to come to him and visit soon.

Brief Chapter Summaries

Chapter 1

Philemon is a letter written by Paul in prison to Philemon who hosts a church in his house. Paul is desiring Philemon to receive back Onesimus, a runaway slave. Onesimus has now received Christ and Paul asks Philemon to restore him and put in Paul’s tab any amount Onesimus may owe. Confident in Philemon’s obedience Paul concludes the letter hoping to come to him and visit soon.

Key Verses

Philemon 1:10

I appeal to you for my child, Onesimus, whose father I became in my imprisonment.

Philemon 1:15

For this perhaps is why he was parted from you for a while, that you might have him back forever…

Philemon 1:17

So if you consider me your partner, receive him as you would receive me.

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