Title and Author: The book of Philemon is one of the shortest epistles in the New Testament, traditionally attributed to the Apostle Paul. The title "Philemon" refers to the primary recipient of the letter, a Christian leader in the early church. Paul is widely accepted as the author, as indicated by the opening verse: "Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus, and Timothy our brother, To Philemon our beloved fellow worker" (Philemon 1:1).

Historical Context: Philemon was written around A.D. 60-62 during Paul's first imprisonment in Rome. This period was marked by the early spread of Christianity throughout the Roman Empire, often amidst persecution. The letter addresses the social and cultural dynamics of slavery, a common institution in the Roman world.

Audience: The primary audience is Philemon, a wealthy Christian and leader of a house church in Colossae. The letter is also addressed to Apphia, Archippus, and the church that meets in Philemon's home, indicating its communal nature.

Purpose: The purpose of the letter is to appeal for the reconciliation and forgiveness of Onesimus, a runaway slave who had become a Christian. Paul intercedes on behalf of Onesimus, urging Philemon to receive him not as a slave but as a beloved brother in Christ.

Genre and Style: Philemon is a personal letter, characterized by its warm, persuasive, and diplomatic tone. It employs rhetorical techniques to appeal to Philemon’s sense of Christian duty.1. Paul (Philemon 1:1)
- Paul is the author of the letter. He identifies himself as a prisoner of Christ Jesus and is writing to appeal on behalf of Onesimus.

2. Timothy (Philemon 1:1)
- Timothy is mentioned as a co-sender of the letter. He is a close companion and fellow worker with Paul.

3. Philemon (Philemon 1:1)
- Philemon is the primary recipient of the letter. He is a beloved fellow worker and a leader in the Colossian church, likely hosting a church in his home.

4. Apphia (Philemon 1:2)
- Apphia is addressed in the letter, possibly Philemon's wife or a prominent woman in the church.

5. Archippus (Philemon 1:2)
- Archippus is mentioned as a fellow soldier, possibly a leader in the church or Philemon's son.

6. Onesimus (Philemon 1:10)
- Onesimus is the subject of Paul's appeal. He is a slave who has become a Christian and is described as Paul's "child" in the faith.

7. Epaphras (Philemon 1:23)
- Epaphras is mentioned as a fellow prisoner with Paul, likely a leader in the Colossian church.

8. Mark (Philemon 1:24)
- Mark is listed among Paul's fellow workers. He is traditionally identified as John Mark, the author of the Gospel of Mark.

9. Aristarchus (Philemon 1:24)
- Aristarchus is another fellow worker of Paul, known for accompanying Paul on his travels.

10. Demas (Philemon 1:24)
- Demas is mentioned as a fellow worker, though later in 2 Timothy, he is noted for having deserted Paul.

11. Luke (Philemon 1:24)
- Luke is also listed as a fellow worker. He is traditionally identified as the author of the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles.1. Prison (Philemon 1:1): The letter is written by Paul while he is in prison. Although the specific location of the prison is not mentioned in the text, it is traditionally believed to be in Rome. Paul refers to himself as a "prisoner of Christ Jesus," indicating his physical imprisonment as well as his spiritual commitment.

2. Colossae (Implied, Philemon 1:2): While Colossae is not explicitly mentioned in the text, it is implied as the location of Philemon's house church. Philemon is believed to be a resident of Colossae, as he is also addressed in the Book of Colossians. The letter is addressed to Philemon, Apphia, Archippus, and the church that meets in their home.1. Introduction and Greeting (Philemon 1:1-3):
Paul introduces himself as a prisoner of Christ Jesus and greets Philemon, Apphia, Archippus, and the church that meets in Philemon's home. He extends grace and peace from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

2. Thanksgiving and Prayer (Philemon 1:4-7):
Paul expresses his gratitude to God for Philemon, mentioning his prayers for him. He commends Philemon for his love and faith toward Jesus and the saints, which has brought joy and encouragement to Paul.

3. Paul's Appeal for Onesimus (Philemon 1:8-10):
Paul makes a personal appeal to Philemon on behalf of Onesimus, a runaway slave who has become a believer. Paul refers to Onesimus as his "child" whom he has "begotten while in chains."

4. Transformation of Onesimus (Philemon 1:11-14):
Paul explains that Onesimus, who was once useless to Philemon, is now useful to both of them. Paul expresses his desire to keep Onesimus with him to help during his imprisonment but chooses to send him back to Philemon.

5. Appeal for Reconciliation (Philemon 1:15-16):
Paul suggests that Onesimus's separation from Philemon might have been for a greater purpose, so that he could return as more than a slave, but as a beloved brother in Christ.

6. Paul's Offer to Repay (Philemon 1:17-19):
Paul asks Philemon to welcome Onesimus as he would welcome Paul himself. He offers to repay any debt Onesimus might owe, reminding Philemon of his own debt to Paul.

7. Paul's Confidence in Philemon's Response (Philemon 1:20-21):
Paul expresses confidence that Philemon will do even more than what Paul asks, and he requests that Philemon refresh his heart in Christ.

8. Paul's Request for Lodging (Philemon 1:22):
Paul asks Philemon to prepare a guest room for him, expressing hope that he will be able to visit Philemon soon, thanks to the prayers of the believers.

9. Final Greetings and Benediction (Philemon 1:23-25):
Paul sends greetings from fellow workers Epaphras, Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke. He concludes the letter with a benediction, wishing the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ to be with Philemon's spirit.1. Christian Love and Fellowship (Philemon 1:5)
- Paul emphasizes the importance of love and fellowship among believers. He commends Philemon for his love and faith toward Jesus and all the saints, highlighting the communal bond that should exist within the Christian community.

2. Forgiveness and Reconciliation (Philemon 1:10-12)
- The letter centers on the theme of forgiveness and reconciliation, as Paul appeals to Philemon to forgive his runaway slave, Onesimus, and to welcome him back not as a slave but as a beloved brother in Christ. This reflects the transformative power of the Gospel in personal relationships.

3. Intercession and Advocacy (Philemon 1:9-10)
- Paul acts as an intercessor for Onesimus, advocating on his behalf. This theme illustrates the role of believers in supporting and standing up for one another, as Paul uses his influence to seek a favorable outcome for Onesimus.

4. Transformation and New Identity in Christ (Philemon 1:11)
- Onesimus, once considered "useless," is now "useful" both to Paul and Philemon, symbolizing the transformative effect of faith in Christ. This theme underscores the new identity and purpose believers find in their relationship with Jesus.

5. Authority and Voluntary Action (Philemon 1:8-9, 14)
- Paul, though he has the authority to command Philemon, chooses instead to appeal to him out of love, emphasizing the importance of voluntary, heartfelt actions over compulsion. This theme highlights the value of willing obedience and love-driven decisions in the Christian life.

6. Equality and Brotherhood in Christ (Philemon 1:16)
- Paul urges Philemon to receive Onesimus "no longer as a slave, but better than a slave, as a dear brother." This theme speaks to the radical equality and brotherhood that the Gospel brings, breaking down social and cultural barriers.1. Christ Jesus (Philemon 1:1)
- Description: Paul opens his letter by identifying himself as "a prisoner of Christ Jesus." This title emphasizes Jesus as the Messiah (Christ) and highlights Paul's dedication and service to Him, even in imprisonment.

2. Lord Jesus Christ (Philemon 1:3)
- Description: In his greeting, Paul extends "Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ." This title underscores the authority and divinity of Jesus, acknowledging Him as Lord and the source of spiritual blessings.

3. Christ (Philemon 1:6)
- Description: Paul speaks of the "fellowship of your faith" becoming effective "in the knowledge of every good thing that is in us for the sake of Christ." Here, Christ is the central figure for whom believers live and act, emphasizing His role as the focus of Christian life and community.

4. Christ Jesus (Philemon 1:8)
- Description: Paul mentions his authority "in Christ" to command Philemon, yet he chooses to appeal out of love. This reference highlights the authority and relational aspect of being in Christ, where love and fellowship guide actions.

5. Lord (Philemon 1:16)
- Description: Paul refers to Onesimus as "a beloved brother, both in the flesh and in the Lord." This title signifies Jesus' role as the unifying Lord of all believers, transcending social and personal boundaries.

6. Christ (Philemon 1:20)
- Description: Paul expresses his desire for Philemon to "refresh my heart in Christ." This indicates the spiritual encouragement and renewal that comes through Christ, emphasizing His role in the believer's emotional and spiritual well-being.

7. Christ Jesus (Philemon 1:23)
- Description: Paul mentions Epaphras as "my fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus." This title again highlights the shared experience and fellowship among believers who are united in Christ, even in suffering.

1. Greetings from Paul and Timothy  ( 1:1⁠–⁠3 )

2. Philemon’s Faith and Love  ( 1:4⁠–⁠7 )

3. Paul's Appeal for Onesimus  ( 1:8⁠–⁠22 )

4. Final Greetings  ( 1:23⁠–⁠25 )