1 Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus, and Timothy our brother, To Philemon our dear friend and fellow worker— 2 also to Apphia our sister and Archippus our fellow soldier—and to the church that meets in your home: 3 Grace and peace to you[a] from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Philemon NIV - Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus, and - Bible Gateway
Who was Philemon in the Bible? Philemon was a first-century Christian and a slave owner who also hosted a church in his home, most likely in Colossae. His name means “affectionate” in Greek, and, from all we know about Philemon, he lived up to his name.
It is a prison letter, authored by Paul the Apostle (the opening verse also mentions Timothy), to Philemon, a leader in the Colossian church.
Summary: Philemon is a personal letter from the Apostle Paul to Philemon, urging him to forgive and welcome his runaway slave Onesimus, who has become a believer. Paul appeals to Philemon’s love and faith, emphasizing brotherhood and reconciliation, and offers to repay any debt owed by Onesimus.
Gain a better understanding of the book of Philemon in the Bible. Explore key themes such as equality, the gift of God’s grace, and slavery with videos, podcasts, and more from BibleProject™.
Philemon was Paul's son in the faith, yet he entreated him as a brother. Onesimus was a poor slave, yet Paul besought for him as if seeking some great thing for himself.
Philemon 1 1 Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus, and Timothy our brother, To Philemon our dear friend and fellow worker— 2 also to Apphia our sister and Archippus our fellow soldier—and to the church that meets in your home: