Topical Bible: Intercession: Paul for Onesimus

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The concept of intercession is vividly illustrated in the New Testament through the Apostle Paul's advocacy for Onesimus, a runaway slave, in his epistle to Philemon. This brief letter, though personal in nature, provides profound insights into the Christian principles of forgiveness, reconciliation, and the transformative power of the Gospel.

Background

Onesimus was a slave belonging to Philemon, a wealthy Christian and a leader of a house church in Colossae. Onesimus had fled from Philemon, possibly after committing some wrongdoing, and eventually encountered Paul during the apostle's imprisonment in Rome. Under Paul's influence, Onesimus converted to Christianity, becoming a "beloved brother" in the faith (Philemon 1:16).

Paul's Intercession

Paul's letter to Philemon is a masterful example of intercessory advocacy. Paul begins by acknowledging Philemon's love and faith, which have brought joy and encouragement to many (Philemon 1:4-7). He then gently appeals to Philemon on behalf of Onesimus, whom he describes as his "child" in the faith, having become a spiritual father to him during his imprisonment (Philemon 1:10).

Paul's intercession is characterized by humility and tact. He refrains from commanding Philemon, despite his apostolic authority, choosing instead to appeal "on the basis of love" (Philemon 1:9). Paul expresses his desire to keep Onesimus with him, as he has been helpful in ministry, but he respects Philemon's rights and sends Onesimus back, urging Philemon to receive him not as a slave but as a brother in Christ (Philemon 1:12-16).

Theological Implications

Paul's intercession for Onesimus underscores several key theological themes. First, it highlights the transformative power of the Gospel, which transcends social and cultural barriers. Onesimus, once a fugitive slave, is now a valued member of the Christian community, illustrating the new identity believers have in Christ.

Second, the letter emphasizes the Christian ethic of forgiveness and reconciliation. Paul encourages Philemon to forgive Onesimus and to restore their relationship, reflecting the forgiveness believers have received from God through Christ.

Finally, Paul's willingness to bear any financial or legal restitution on behalf of Onesimus (Philemon 1:18-19) mirrors the sacrificial love of Christ, who intercedes for humanity by taking upon Himself the debt of sin.

Conclusion

The intercession of Paul for Onesimus is a powerful testament to the principles of Christian love, forgiveness, and reconciliation. It serves as a model for believers to advocate for one another, reflecting the intercessory work of Christ Himself.

Nave's Topical Index

Philemon 1:10-21
I beseech you for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten in my bonds:
Nave's Topical Index

Library

Homilies on the Epistles to Timothy, Titus, and Philemon.
... Intercession, priestly, [3481]426; advantages of, [3482]ib.; for those without never
to be ... Paul, [3603]ib ... Onesimus, a true and not a true son, [3604]521; a son ...
/.../homilies on the epistles to.htm

Letter Lxxxii. To Theophilus Bishop of Alexandria.
... he was being stoned by the people he made intercession for them ... same class, and he
must have read of Onesimus who, being made regenerate by Paul in prison ...
/.../jerome/the principal works of st jerome/letter lxxxii to theophilus bishop.htm

Homilies on Philippians, Colossians, and Thessalonians.
... whom St. Paul would have the Colossians entirely subject, [788]315. Archangel,
[789]355-56. Arians ... with St. Paul, [791]310. Arius ...
/.../homilies on philippians colossians and.htm

Come and Welcome to Jesus Christ;
... to Christ; the Son in saving them by his atonement, mediation, and intercession;
and the ... When the jailer said, "Sirs, What must I do to be saved?" Paul did not ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/come and welcome to jesus.htm

Period I: the Imperial State Church of the Undivided Empire, or ...
... It was derived in part from the teaching of Paul of Samosata through Lucian
of Antioch. Paul of Samosata had admitted the existence ...
/.../ayer/a source book for ancient church history/period i the imperial state.htm