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.

Study Bible

I would have liked to keep him with me
Paul expresses a personal desire to retain Onesimus, a runaway slave who has become a Christian. This reflects the close bond formed between Paul and Onesimus during the latter's conversion and subsequent service. The phrase highlights the personal nature of Paul's letter to Philemon, emphasizing the deep relationships within the early Christian community. It also underscores the theme of Christian fellowship and mutual support, which is a recurring theme in Paul's epistles (e.g., Philippians 1:3-5).

so that on your behalf
Paul suggests that Onesimus's service to him would be as if Philemon himself were ministering to Paul. This reflects the interconnectedness of the body of Christ, where actions by one member can represent the intentions or desires of another. It also subtly appeals to Philemon's sense of duty and generosity, encouraging him to view Onesimus not merely as a slave but as a brother in Christ. This idea of representation and intercession is seen elsewhere in Paul's writings, such as in 2 Corinthians 5:20, where believers are called ambassadors for Christ.

he could minister to me
The term "minister" here implies service, which in the context of Paul's imprisonment, would include providing for his physical needs and assisting in his ministry. This reflects the early Christian practice of supporting those in ministry, as seen in the support Paul received from other churches (Philippians 4:14-18). It also highlights the transformation in Onesimus's life, from a runaway slave to a valued co-worker in the gospel.

in my chains for the gospel
Paul's reference to his chains underscores his imprisonment for preaching the gospel, a recurring theme in his letters (Ephesians 6:20, Colossians 4:3). This phrase serves as a reminder of the cost of discipleship and the reality of persecution faced by early Christians. It also emphasizes the power of the gospel to transcend social and legal boundaries, as Onesimus, a slave, is now seen as a partner in ministry. The imagery of chains also points to the spiritual freedom found in Christ, contrasting physical bondage with spiritual liberation (Galatians 5:1).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul
The apostle who wrote the letter to Philemon. He is imprisoned for preaching the gospel and desires Onesimus to stay with him to assist in his ministry.

2. Onesimus
A runaway slave who has become a Christian and is now considered a spiritual son to Paul. Paul is sending him back to his master, Philemon, with this letter.

3. Philemon
A Christian leader and the owner of Onesimus. Paul appeals to him to receive Onesimus back not just as a slave but as a beloved brother in Christ.

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

5. The Gospel
The central message of Christianity, which Paul is committed to spreading, even while in chains.

Teaching Points

The Power of the Gospel to Transform Lives
Onesimus's transformation from a runaway slave to a beloved brother in Christ demonstrates the life-changing power of the gospel.

Christian Brotherhood Transcends Social Status
Paul’s appeal to Philemon highlights that in Christ, social distinctions such as slave and free are secondary to spiritual kinship.

The Role of Intercession in Christian Relationships
Paul acts as an intercessor for Onesimus, modeling how believers can mediate and advocate for one another in love.

The Importance of Reconciliation and Forgiveness
The letter encourages Philemon to forgive Onesimus and restore their relationship, reflecting the reconciliation believers have with God through Christ.

Serving Christ in All Circumstances
Paul’s desire to have Onesimus minister to him in his imprisonment shows that service to Christ can occur in any situation, even in chains.

Bible Study 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?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Colossians 4:9
Onesimus is mentioned as a faithful and beloved brother, showing his transformation and acceptance in the Christian community.

Philippians 1:7
Paul speaks of being in chains for the defense and confirmation of the gospel, similar to his situation in Philemon.

1 Corinthians 7:21-22
Discusses the status of slaves and their freedom in Christ, relevant to Onesimus's situation.

Galatians 3:28
Emphasizes the equality of all believers in Christ, which underpins Paul's appeal to Philemon.