Philemon 1:13
I would have liked to keep him with me, so that on your behalf he could minister to me in my chains for the gospel.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1. What is the meaning of Philemon 1:13?

2. How does Philemon 1:13 illustrate the value of Christian service and support?

3. What does Paul's desire to keep Onesimus reveal about Christian fellowship?

4. How can Philemon 1:13 inspire us to support fellow believers in ministry?

5. Compare Paul's request in Philemon 1:13 with Jesus' teachings on servanthood.

6. How can we apply Paul's example in Philemon 1:13 to our daily lives?

7. Why did Paul want to keep Onesimus with him in Philemon 1:13?

8. How does Philemon 1:13 reflect early Christian views on slavery?

9. What does Philemon 1:13 reveal about Paul's relationship with Onesimus?

10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Philemon 1?

11. Given the lack of Roman archival records, how certain can we be that Paul’s house arrest in Acts 28:16 and 30–31 happened exactly as recorded?

12. How can Paul's claim that his imprisonment helped spread the message (Philippians 1:12-13) be substantiated by historical evidence outside the Bible?

13. Philemon 1:12-16 - Why would Paul send a slave back to his master instead of urging Philemon to free him outright?

14. In John 13:1, why does the timing of the 'last supper' differ from accounts in the Synoptic Gospels?
Discussion Questions
1. How does Onesimus's account illustrate the transformative power of the gospel in our own lives?

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

3. How does understanding our identity in Christ help us navigate social and cultural distinctions today?

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

5. How can we serve Christ effectively in our current circumstances, even if they seem limiting or challenging?1. How does Paul's approach to Philemon demonstrate humility and respect?

2. What can we learn from Paul's gratitude and prayers for Philemon?

3. How does the relationship between Paul and Onesimus exemplify spiritual fatherhood?

4. In what ways does the story of Onesimus reflect the transformation that comes with accepting Christ?

5. How does Paul reinterpret the concept of slavery and freedom in the context of Christian brotherhood?

6. What role does intercession play in the letter, and how can we apply this to our prayers today?

7. How does Paul model Christian ethics regarding repayment of debts and taking responsibility for others' actions?

8. How might the principles of hospitality discussed in Philemon apply to our lives today?

9. How does Paul's treatment of Philemon model the principles of Christian equality?

10. Why is it significant that Paul addresses this letter not only to Philemon but also to the church meeting in his house?

11. How does Paul demonstrate the Gospel's power to transform social relationships?

12. If you were in Philemon's place, how would you respond to Paul's letter?

13. How does Philemon challenge societal norms of its time?

14. How does this letter deepen our understanding of forgiveness from a Christian perspective?

15. How can the principles in this letter guide us when dealing with conflicts or disagreements?

16. How does Paul's actions reflect his trust in God's providence?

17. How can we apply Paul's example of advocacy for Onesimus to situations of injustice today?

18. How does the story of Onesimus inspire us to seek and offer second chances?

19. How does Paul exemplify using influence for the good of others in his letter to Philemon?

20. How can we promote and embody the themes of brotherhood, reconciliation, and equality depicted in Philemon in our communities today?

Links
Philemon 1:13 NIV
Philemon 1:13 NLT
Philemon 1:13 ESV
Philemon 1:13 NASB
Philemon 1:13 KJV

Philemon 1:13 Commentaries

Bible Hub
Philemon 1:12
Top of Page
Top of Page