Philemon 1:17

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

Study Bible

So if you consider me a partner
The word "partner" in Greek is "koinōnos," which implies a deep fellowship or sharing in common. In the early Christian context, this term goes beyond mere association; it signifies a spiritual and communal bond rooted in shared faith and mission. Paul appeals to Philemon's sense of Christian brotherhood, reminding him of their mutual commitment to the Gospel. This partnership is not just a social contract but a divine fellowship that transcends earthly relationships, reflecting the unity of the body of Christ.

receive him
The Greek word for "receive" is "proslambanō," which means to take to oneself or to welcome. This is not a passive acceptance but an active, warm embrace. Paul is urging Philemon to welcome Onesimus, not merely as a returning servant but as a brother in Christ. This act of receiving is a reflection of the grace and forgiveness that believers have received from God. It challenges Philemon to extend the same grace to Onesimus, embodying the transformative power of the Gospel in personal relationships.

as you would receive me
Paul's request here is profound. He is asking Philemon to treat Onesimus with the same respect and love that he would show to Paul himself. This phrase underscores the radical equality and unity that the Gospel brings. In the Roman world, social hierarchies were rigid, but Paul is advocating for a new social order within the Christian community, where all are equal in Christ. This reflects the teaching of Galatians 3:28, where Paul declares that in Christ, there is neither slave nor free. By equating Onesimus with himself, Paul is not only advocating for reconciliation but also for a redefinition of identity based on faith rather than social status.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul
The apostle who wrote the letter to Philemon. He is imprisoned at the time of writing and is advocating for Onesimus.

2. Philemon
A Christian leader and the recipient of the letter. He is a wealthy man who hosts a church in his home.

3. Onesimus
A runaway slave who has become a Christian under Paul's mentorship. Paul is sending him back to Philemon with this letter.

4. Colossae
The city where Philemon resides and where the church meets in his home.

5. The Church
The body of believers meeting in Philemon's house, who are also indirectly addressed in the letter.

Teaching Points

Partnership in the Gospel
Paul appeals to Philemon on the basis of their partnership in Christ. This teaches us the importance of viewing our relationships through the lens of our shared faith.

Reconciliation and Forgiveness
The letter exemplifies the Christian call to forgive and reconcile, even in difficult circumstances. We are encouraged to seek reconciliation in our own relationships.

Identity in Christ
Onesimus' transformation from a slave to a brother in Christ highlights the new identity believers have. We should view others through the lens of their identity in Christ.

Hospitality and Acceptance
Paul's request for Philemon to receive Onesimus as he would receive Paul challenges us to practice radical hospitality and acceptance within the body of Christ.

Intercession and Advocacy
Paul acts as an advocate for Onesimus, modeling how we can intercede for others and support them in their spiritual journey.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Paul's appeal to Philemon challenge our understanding of Christian partnership and community?

2. In what ways can we practice reconciliation and forgiveness in our own lives, following the example set in this letter?

3. How does recognizing our identity in Christ change the way we view and interact with others, especially those who have wronged us?

4. What are some practical ways we can show hospitality and acceptance to fellow believers, as Paul encourages Philemon to do?

5. How can we act as advocates for others in our faith communities, and what might that look like in practice?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Galatians 3:28
This verse speaks to the equality of all believers in Christ, which underpins Paul's appeal for Onesimus to be received as a brother.

Matthew 25:40
Jesus' teaching on receiving others as if they were Him connects to Paul's request for Philemon to receive Onesimus as he would receive Paul.

2 Corinthians 5:17-19
Discusses the ministry of reconciliation, which is central to Paul's appeal for Onesimus.

Ephesians 6:5-9
Provides context on the relationship between masters and slaves, relevant to understanding the social dynamics in Philemon.

Colossians 4:9
Mentions Onesimus as a faithful and beloved brother, reinforcing his new identity in Christ.