Mirror Reading on Philemon

In verses 1-3, Paul begins his letter by introducing himself and Timothy and extends greetings to the primary recipient, Philemon, as well as Apphia, Archippus, and the church that meets in their house. Paul identifies himself as “a prisoner for Christ Jesus,” suggesting that he may have written this letter while incarcerated. His imprisonment is attributed to Christ, possibly due to his unwavering faith in and dedication to the Lord Jesus Christ. 

The mention of the “church in your house” in verse 2, suggests that Philemon, Apphia, and Archippus likely shared a household, or at least fellowshipped in the same household, a common practice in the ancient times where early Christian gatherings often took place in private homes due to persecution and the absence of formal church buildings. This intimate setting fostered the sharing of faith within family units. The familial language used by Paul, such as referring to Apphia as “our sister” and the possibility of Archippus being a family member, indicates a close familial bond among the recipients of the letter. Furthermore, the characterization of the household members as Paul’s co-workers in faith shows their strong Christian identity and shared mission within the household. 

Philemon’s designation as Paul’s “beloved fellow worker” highlights his active involvement in spreading the Gospel and serving alongside Paul, suggesting that he was a respected and influential member of the Christian community with leadership responsibilities. Similarly, Apphia’s title as Paul’s “sister” suggests her active participation within the Christian community that fellowships in Philemon’s household, while Archippus being described as Paul’s “fellow soldier” indicates his commitment to the faith and perhaps his leadership role in the Church that meets at their house. The historical background inferred from the mirror-reading of the Book of Philemon portrays a Christian household deeply rooted in faith, familial ties, and shared mission with Paul. 

In verses 4-7 of the letter to Philemon, Paul offers insights into Philemon’s character and his relationship with him. Firstly, Paul mentions that he remembers Philemon in his prayers, indicating the depth of their close relationship and mutual concern for each other. This intimate bond between Paul and Philemon sets the tone for the rest of the letter, emphasizing the personal nature of Paul’s appeal. Secondly, Paul commends Philemon’s love and faith towards the Lord Jesus and all the saints. Philemon is not only described as a beloved fellow worker in the faith but also as someone who genuinely loves God and His people, the saints who constitute the body of Christ. This dual expression of love for God and His people highlights Philemon’s holistic commitment to his faith. Paul acknowledges Philemon’s love for both God and the community of believers, emphasizing that his love extends beyond mere devotion to God to encompass a genuine care and concern for fellow believers. This comprehensive love is worthy of honor, as it reflects the essence of Christian discipleship.

Building on this commendation, Paul expresses his prayers for Philemon, specifically in verse 6, praying that the sharing of his faith would be effective in leading to a deeper understanding of every good thing that God has bestowed upon believers. This prayer emphasizes on the transformative power of sharing one’s faith, not only for the spiritual growth of others, but also for enriching one’s own understanding of God’s blessings. It appears that Paul is preparing Philemon’s heart and setting a positive tone before addressing the primary purpose of his letter. By highlighting Philemon’s virtues and expressing his prayers for him, Paul creates a context of affirmation and encouragement, laying the groundwork for the sensitive and challenging issue he is about to address regarding Onesimus, Philemon’s runaway slave.

In verse 8, Paul shifts his focus to the primary reason for writing the letter, expressing his boldness in Christ to command Philemon to do what is required. This suggests the spiritual authority Paul had over Philemon. However, instead of exercising this authority to issue a command, Paul opts for a gentler approach, appealing to Philemon to welcome back Onesimus, who had become like a spiritual child to Paul during his imprisonment, as mentioned in verse 10. From Paul’s words, it is evident that Onesimus had some prior connection with Philemon, which may have been disrupted under unfavorable circumstances. Paul describes Onesimus as “formerly useless” to Philemon in verse 11, suggesting that Onesimus might have served in some capacity within Philemon’s household. Paul then provides an update on Onesimus, indicating a transformation in his status. Contrary to his previous state of being “useless” to Philemon, Paul expresses confidence that Onesimus has become “useful” not only to him but also to Philemon. By referring to Onesimus as his “child,” Paul underscores the spiritual bond and mentorship he has developed with Onesimus, similar to his relationship with Philemon. In this way, Paul navigates the delicate situation by appealing to Philemon’s Christian values and the transformed relationship between him and Onesimus, laying the groundwork for the reconciliation he seeks between the two.

In verses 12-14, Paul informs Philemon that he plans to send Onesimus back to him, despite his personal preference to keep him to assist during his imprisonment. Paul emphasizes his intention to return Onesimus to Philemon, expressing his desire to act with Philemon’s full consent. He appeals to Philemon to receive Onesimus not merely as a slave, but as a beloved brother in Christ. Several insights can be gleaned from verses 10-17. First, Paul’s words clarify the previous relationship between Philemon and Onesimus. Onesimus was Philemon’s slave, but their relationship had been strained, leading to Onesimus leaving without Philemon’s consent. This historical context reveals that even early Christians, like Philemon, owned slaves, and Paul does not explicitly condemn this practice in his letter. Secondly, Paul demonstrates a respectful approach to his spiritual authority, refraining from coercively claiming Onesimus for his own service. Instead, Paul values Philemon’s consent, emphasizing the importance of willing and heartfelt actions over compelled obedience. Paul’s tone throughout the letter remains one of pleading rather than imposition. Lastly, Paul encourages Philemon to exemplify Christian love and forgiveness by welcoming Onesimus back, not as a slave but as a cherished brother in Christ. Paul desires Philemon to receive Onesimus in the same way he would welcome Paul himself, implying a relationship of mutual respect and equality rather than one of master and servant. 

Lastly, Paul expresses his willingness to personally cover any debt or wrongdoing by Onesimus towards Philemon, expressing confidence in Philemon’s acceptance of his appeal. He concludes the letter by requesting Philemon to prepare a guest room for him, hopeful that his prayers and those of others will soon facilitate Paul’s release or visitation to Philemon. Paul also conveys greetings from fellow believers, including Epaphras, Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke. Given Paul’s mention of his imprisonment in verse 1, these individuals may have been fellow prisoners with him, or perhaps they held leadership roles within the Christian community that Paul oversaw during his time in captivity.