Philemon 1:20

Yes, brother, let me have some benefit from you in the Lord. Refresh my heart in Christ.

Study Bible

Yes, brother
The word "Yes" in Greek is "ναί" (nai), which is an affirmation, showing Paul's earnestness and sincerity. By addressing Philemon as "brother," Paul emphasizes the familial bond shared among believers. This term is not merely a formality but a reminder of the spiritual kinship that transcends social and economic boundaries. In the early church, the use of "brother" signified equality and mutual respect, which was revolutionary in a society stratified by class and status.

let me have some benefit
The Greek word for "benefit" here is "ὀναίμην" (onaimen), which is a play on words with the name Onesimus, whose name means "useful" or "profitable." Paul is cleverly using this wordplay to remind Philemon of the transformation in Onesimus, who was once "useless" to him but is now "useful" both to Paul and Philemon. This phrase underscores the theme of redemption and transformation that is central to the Christian message.

from you in the Lord
The phrase "in the Lord" indicates that the benefit Paul seeks is not merely a personal favor but one that is rooted in their shared faith in Christ. It highlights the spiritual dimension of their relationship and the actions they take. In the early Christian community, actions "in the Lord" were seen as acts of worship and obedience to Christ, reflecting the new life believers were called to live.

Refresh my heart
The Greek word for "refresh" is "ἀνάπαυσον" (anapauson), which means to give rest or relief. Paul is asking Philemon to provide him with emotional and spiritual relief by accepting Onesimus back with love and forgiveness. The term "heart" here is "σπλάγχνα" (splanchna), which refers to the inner emotions or affections. This request is deeply personal, showing the emotional investment Paul has in the reconciliation between Philemon and Onesimus.

in Christ
This phrase signifies that the actions and relationships of believers are to be centered in Christ. It is a reminder that their identity and actions are to be governed by their relationship with Jesus. In the context of the letter, it serves as a powerful reminder that the reconciliation and forgiveness Paul is advocating for are possible because of the transformative power of Christ's love and sacrifice. The early church understood that being "in Christ" meant living out the implications of the Gospel in every aspect of life, including relationships and social structures.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul
The apostle who authored the letter to Philemon, writing from prison. He is appealing to Philemon on behalf of 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 and is now being sent back to Philemon by Paul.

4. The Church in Colossae
The broader community to which Philemon belongs, indicating the communal nature of early Christian life.

5. The Lord (Christ)
Central to the appeal, as Paul seeks to ground his request in their shared faith in Jesus.

Teaching Points

Christian Brotherhood
Paul addresses Philemon as "brother," emphasizing the familial bond among believers. This relationship transcends social and economic statuses, urging us to treat each other with love and respect.

Benefit in the Lord
The "benefit" Paul seeks is not material but spiritual, highlighting the importance of spiritual encouragement and support within the Christian community.

Refreshing Hearts
Just as Paul desires his heart to be refreshed, we are called to be sources of encouragement and renewal for others, reflecting Christ's love and grace.

Forgiveness and Reconciliation
The letter exemplifies the Christian call to forgive and reconcile, as Paul intercedes for Onesimus, urging Philemon to welcome him back not as a slave but as a brother in Christ.

Living Out Faith
Philemon is encouraged to demonstrate his faith through action, reminding us that our beliefs should be evident in how we treat others, especially those who have wronged us.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Paul's relationship with Philemon and Onesimus illustrate the concept of Christian brotherhood?

2. In what ways can we "refresh" the hearts of fellow believers in our own communities?

3. How does the idea of receiving a "benefit in the Lord" challenge our understanding of what it means to support one another spiritually?

4. What steps can we take to practice forgiveness and reconciliation in our personal relationships, as Paul encourages Philemon to do with Onesimus?

5. How can we ensure that our faith is actively demonstrated in our daily interactions with others, particularly those who may have wronged us?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Galatians 6:10
This verse encourages believers to do good to all, especially to those in the household of faith, which aligns with Paul's request for Philemon to act benevolently towards Onesimus.

Matthew 11:28-30
Jesus invites those who are weary to find rest in Him, paralleling Paul's desire for Philemon to "refresh" his heart in Christ.

2 Corinthians 7:13
Paul speaks of being comforted by the joy of others, similar to his request for Philemon to bring him joy by accepting Onesimus.