Topical Bible: Love to Man: Philemon

◄ Love to Man: Philemon ►

Jump to: Torrey's • Library • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

The Epistle to Philemon, one of the shortest books in the New Testament, is a profound testament to the Christian principle of love to man. Written by the Apostle Paul, this personal letter is addressed to Philemon, a fellow believer and leader in the Colossian church. The central theme of the epistle is the transformative power of Christian love and forgiveness, as demonstrated through the relationship between Philemon and his runaway slave, Onesimus.

Context and Background

Philemon was a wealthy Christian who hosted a church in his home. Onesimus, his slave, had fled, possibly after committing some wrongdoing. During his flight, Onesimus encountered Paul, who was imprisoned at the time. Under Paul's influence, Onesimus converted to Christianity, becoming a "beloved brother" (Philemon 1:16) in the faith. Paul writes to Philemon, urging him to receive Onesimus not merely as a slave but as a brother in Christ.

Paul's Appeal for Love and Forgiveness

Paul's letter is a masterful appeal to Philemon's sense of Christian love and duty. He begins by commending Philemon for his love and faith, which have brought joy and encouragement to the saints (Philemon 1:4-7). Paul then gently intercedes on behalf of Onesimus, whom he describes as "my child, whom I have begotten while in chains" (Philemon 1:10). This paternal language underscores the deep spiritual bond between Paul and Onesimus.

Paul's request is radical for its time: he asks Philemon to forgive Onesimus and to welcome him as a brother. "For perhaps this is why he was separated from you for a while, so that you might have him back for good—not as a slave, but better than a slave, as a dear brother" (Philemon 1:15-16). This appeal challenges the social norms of the day, emphasizing the equality and unity of all believers in Christ.

Theological Implications

The Epistle to Philemon illustrates the practical outworking of the Gospel in social relationships. It highlights the power of Christian love to transcend societal barriers and transform personal relationships. Paul's intercession for Onesimus is a reflection of Christ's intercession for humanity, advocating for reconciliation and restoration.

The letter also underscores the importance of voluntary love and forgiveness. Paul refrains from commanding Philemon, instead appealing to his sense of Christian duty: "Yet I prefer to appeal on the basis of love" (Philemon 1:9). This approach respects Philemon's autonomy and encourages a genuine, heartfelt response.

Practical Application

For contemporary believers, the Epistle to Philemon serves as a powerful reminder of the call to love and forgive others, regardless of social status or past transgressions. It challenges Christians to view others through the lens of Christ's redemptive work, fostering a community marked by grace and reconciliation.

In summary, the Epistle to Philemon is a profound exploration of love to man, demonstrating how the Gospel transforms relationships and calls believers to a higher standard of love and forgiveness. Through Paul's appeal, the letter exemplifies the Christian ideal of brotherly love, urging believers to live out their faith in tangible, relational ways.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Philemon 1:7-9
For we have great joy and consolation in your love, because the bowels of the saints are refreshed by you, brother.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Philemon i. 6-Apr
... since it was offensive, although, as spoken out of love, it was ... saying, "Having
confidence," by which he implies that Philemon was a great man, [1550] that ...
/.../homily ii philemon i 6-apr.htm

The Epistle to Philemon.
... retarded by the counteracting influence of the love of gain ... thief and runaway, but
a regenerate man and a ... with the touching request that Philemon might receive ...
/.../schaff/history of the christian church volume i/section 98 the epistle to.htm

Philemon i. 17-19
... This would both shame Philemon into compliance, and bring ... great concern he bestows
in behalf of one man. ... And this proceeded from love, and was according to the ...
/.../homily iii philemon i 17-19.htm

Homilies on the Epistles to Timothy, Titus, and Philemon.
... Earnestness, taught by the Epistle to Philemon, [3298]546. ... Love, to enemies,
possible, [3523]419; to man, brings love to God, [3524]502. ...
/.../homilies on the epistles to.htm

Homilies of St. John Chrysostom,
... At this place was Philemon with these (Colossians ... Near to him who invites those stands
vainglory arming him, but near the other, love of man, and gentleness. ...
/.../homilies of st john chrysostom 2.htm

Homilies of St. John Chrysostom, Archbishop of Constantinople, on ...
... For when a man leads a spiritual life, the habit ... Paul, who had such confidence in
Philemon, was unwilling ... the institution by teaching the universal love of God ...
/.../homilies of st john chrysostom 4.htm

Colossians iv. 5, 6
... Onesimus is the one about whom, writing to Philemon, he said, "Whom I would ... promised
to them that love Him, through the grace and love toward man of our ...
/.../homily xi colossians iv 5.htm

Philippians i. 22-26
Homilies on Gal, Eph, Phi, Col, Thess, Tim, Titus, and Philemon. ... and the kings, and
the prophets, for they had, in oil, a type of God's love to man; and they ...
/.../homily iv philippians i 22-26.htm

Colossians i. 21, 22
Homilies on Gal, Eph, Phi, Col, Thess, Tim, Titus, and Philemon. ... things on a sudden,
but useth condescension because of His plenteous love toward man. ...
/.../homily iv colossians i 21.htm

Philemon i. 3-Jan
... "Unto Philemon our dearly ... God sees him, yet he disregards Him; but if a man see him ...
forced them to minister to disgraceful services, to infamous love, to acts ...
/.../homily i philemon i 3-jan.htm