Lexical Summary Philémón: Philemon Original Word: Φιλήμων Strong's Exhaustive Concordance Philemon. From phileo; friendly; Philemon, a Christian -- Philemon. see GREEK phileo NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom phileó Definition "kindly," Philemon, a Christian NASB Translation Philemon (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 5371: ΦιλημονΦιλημον, Φιλημονος, ὁ, Philemon, of Colossae, converted to Christianity by Paul (Philemon 1:19), and the recipient of the lovely little letter which bears his name in the N. T.: Philemon 1:1. (BB. DD., under the word; especially Lightfoot's Commentary on Colossians and Philemon, Introduction.) Topical Lexicon Identity and BackgroundPhilemon was a Christian believer residing in Colossae (cf. Colossians 4:9), known for his love and faith toward the Lord Jesus and all the saints. The Apostle Paul addresses him as “our beloved fellow worker” (Philemon 1:1), indicating a close partnership in gospel ministry. The church that met “in your house” (Philemon 1:2) shows that Philemon possessed sufficient means and influence to offer his home as a gathering place for believers, making him one of the earliest known house-church hosts in Asia Minor. Spiritual Character Paul commends Philemon for: These traits portray a mature disciple whose personal devotion produced tangible blessings within the local fellowship. Relationship with Paul The designation “fellow worker” (συνεργός) implies that Philemon cooperated with Paul in evangelism and church strengthening—likely through financial support, hospitality, and leadership in Colossae. Paul’s affectionate tone (“beloved”) suggests a relationship deeper than formal partnership. Paul even anticipates lodging with him upon release (Philemon 1:22), reflecting mutual trust and expectation of ongoing ministry together. The Epistle’s Occasion The letter accompanying Philemon’s name centers on Onesimus, a runaway slave who encountered Paul in Rome, was converted, and became “my very heart” (Philemon 1:10-12). Paul sends Onesimus back, appealing for Philemon to receive him “no longer as a slave, but better than a slave, as a beloved brother” (Philemon 1:16). Thus, while Philemon himself appears only once in the Greek text, his response to this appeal illustrates how the gospel transforms social structures by redefining relationships in Christ. Doctrinal and Pastoral Significance 1. Christian Brotherhood: Philemon is urged to see Onesimus “both in the flesh and in the Lord” (Philemon 1:16), an early witness to the unity of believers irrespective of social status (compare Galatians 3:28). 2. Forgiveness and Reconciliation: Paul places the debt of Onesimus on his own account—“if he has wronged you at all, charge it to me” (Philemon 1:18). Philemon’s acceptance of this model would mirror Christ’s substitutionary work, underscoring the gospel pattern for resolving conflict. 3. Voluntary Obedience: Paul refrains from commanding, instead appealing “for love’s sake” (Philemon 1:9). Philemon’s compliance would demonstrate obedience springing from gospel-motivated willingness rather than external compulsion. 4. Exemplary Hospitality: By hosting the church and potentially Paul himself (Philemon 1:22), Philemon embodies the New Testament call to open-handed stewardship (cf. 1 Peter 4:9). Historical Reception Early Christian writers (e.g., Ignatius, Polycarp) allude to the transformative ethic in Philemon, implying that the epistle—and by extension its recipient—served as a case study for Christian views on slavery, reconciliation, and church leadership. Tradition also places Philemon among the martyrs during the reign of Nero, though documentation is scant. Legacy in Christian Ministry Philemon’s brief appearance provides: Through one Spirit-inspired letter, Philemon’s life continues to instruct the church on how the grace of God reshapes households, congregations, and social conventions for the glory of Christ. Forms and Transliterations Φιλημονι Φιλήμονι Philemoni Philēmoni PhilḗmoniLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts |
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