The letter of Philemon was written by the Apostle Paul to Philemon a man who once owned a salve named Onesimus. This letter was written about 61 AD. Paul was an old man and he asked Philemon for Onesimus. He sent Onesimus back to Philemon with the letter, with the hope that Philemon out of his own choice would give Onesimus back to him (Paul). Paul chose not to order Philemon to give him Onesimus but instead he appealed for his love in this matter. Onesimus is said by Paul to have before been unless for Philemon but now he is a great help to Paul. Paul was dropping an opportunity to serve the Lord and to give for the Gospel’s sake in Philemon’s lap. Paul gave Philemon a chance to earn rewards in heaven by a simple gift a gift of something Philemon had already lost.
In verse ten Paul calls Onesimus a child of his. Onesimus became a believer and Paul discipled him and now Onesimus is helpful to him for ministry. Paul goes on to say that they are to welcome Onesimus the way that they would welcome him (Paul) and if Onesimus owes them anything to charge it to Paul’s expense. Paul goes on to remind Philemon that he has unlimited credit as they are what they are because of Paul’s work in the Gospel. Through Paul’s work they were saved and came to know Jesus and owe their salvation that is through Jesus to Paul. Paul finishes with a request that they would revive him in the Lord and to prepare a lodging for him to stay at when he comes. Paul then sends the greetings from Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke, his fellow workers.
This letter from Paul is very personal and is addressed directly to a brother in Christ who is not in a major role of leadership or ministry of the Church. Paul chooses to ask Philemon for Onesimus rather than to demand or command it. The practical application of this letter is that when God or someone drops an opportunity in our lap to serve or give in such a simple fashion we should. Paul gave Philemon a very simple and painless opportunity to serve him and collect rewards in heaven, which are the only rewards or wealth that lasts. It is important to note Paul was in a position where he could easily have taken Onesimus rather than have asked in love. Those who lead can learn from this example of Paul allowing the person to make a decision in love and from their heart rather than commanding the desired response.