Philemon 1:19

I, Paul, write this with my own hand. I will repay it--not to mention that you owe me your very self.

Study Bible

I, Paul
The introduction of the personal pronoun "I" followed by the name "Paul" is significant. In the Greek, "ἐγὼ Παῦλος" (egō Paulos) emphasizes the personal involvement and authority of the apostle. Paul is not merely dictating this letter; he is personally invested in the situation. Historically, Paul was a prominent figure in the early church, known for his missionary journeys and epistles. His name carries weight and authority, underscoring the importance of the message to Philemon.

write this with my own hand
The phrase indicates that Paul is personally penning this part of the letter, which was not always the case with his epistles. In Greek, "ἔγραψα τῇ ἐμῇ χειρί" (egrapsa tē emē cheiri) suggests a personal touch and authenticity. This act of writing with his own hand serves as a form of guarantee or promissory note, emphasizing the seriousness of his commitment. In the historical context, letters were often dictated to a scribe, so this personal touch would have been particularly meaningful to Philemon.

I will repay it
Paul's promise to repay any debt incurred by Onesimus is a powerful statement of responsibility and reconciliation. The Greek "ἀποτίσω" (apotisō) implies a future action of repayment, showing Paul's willingness to bear the cost for the sake of reconciliation. This reflects the Christian principle of bearing one another's burdens, as seen in Galatians 6:2. It also mirrors the sacrificial love of Christ, who paid the ultimate debt for humanity's sins.

not to mention
This phrase, "ἵνα μὴ λέγω" (hina mē legō), serves as a rhetorical device. Paul uses it to gently remind Philemon of a deeper obligation without directly stating it. It reflects a tactful approach, appealing to Philemon's sense of gratitude and moral duty. This subtlety is characteristic of Paul's writing style, where he often employs persuasion rather than command.

that you owe me your very self
Here, Paul reminds Philemon of a personal debt, likely referring to Philemon's conversion to Christianity through Paul's ministry. The Greek "καὶ σεαυτὸν μοι προσοφείλεις" (kai seauton moi prosopheileis) suggests a deep, personal indebtedness. This is not a financial debt but a spiritual one, highlighting the transformative impact of Paul's ministry on Philemon's life. In a broader scriptural context, it underscores the interconnectedness of the Christian community, where spiritual debts are acknowledged and honored.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul
The apostle who authored the letter to Philemon. He is writing from prison, advocating for Onesimus, a runaway slave.

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

3. Onesimus
A slave who belonged to Philemon. He ran away, met Paul, and became a Christian. Paul is sending him back to Philemon with this letter.

4. Rome
The likely place where Paul is imprisoned and from where he writes this letter.

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

Teaching Points

The Power of Personal Responsibility
Paul takes personal responsibility for Onesimus's debt, illustrating the importance of standing in the gap for others and taking responsibility for our actions and those we mentor.

The Call to Forgiveness
Philemon is encouraged to forgive Onesimus, reminding us of the Christian call to forgive others as Christ forgave us.

The Role of Advocacy in Christian Community
Paul acts as an advocate for Onesimus, showing the importance of interceding and advocating for others within the body of Christ.

The Transformative Power of the Gospel
Onesimus's transformation from a runaway slave to a brother in Christ exemplifies the life-changing power of the Gospel.

The Importance of Reconciliation
The letter emphasizes reconciliation, urging believers to seek restoration in relationships, reflecting the reconciliation we have with God through Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Paul's willingness to repay Onesimus's debt reflect the teachings of Jesus on forgiveness and reconciliation?

2. In what ways can we act as advocates for others in our Christian communities, following Paul's example?

3. How does the transformation of Onesimus encourage us to view others through the lens of the Gospel?

4. What practical steps can we take to foster reconciliation in our own relationships, as Paul encourages Philemon to do?

5. How does understanding the cultural and historical context of Philemon enhance our interpretation and application of this letter today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 18:21-35
This passage on forgiveness parallels Paul's appeal to Philemon to forgive Onesimus, highlighting the Christian duty to forgive as we have been forgiven.

Galatians 6:1-2
Paul’s call to bear one another's burdens connects to his willingness to repay any debt Onesimus owes, demonstrating the principle of supporting fellow believers.

2 Corinthians 5:17-19
The theme of reconciliation in Christ is mirrored in Paul's desire for reconciliation between Philemon and Onesimus.