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Paul writes to Philemon from prison
In this short personal letter to Philemon Paul writes from prison as a friend to a friend (v. 1). Paul is imprisoned in Rome while waiting trial after his appeal to Caesar (Acts 28:16, 30-31). Although several names are mentioned, the main content of the letter is addressed to Ph …

Plea for forgiveness
Paul makes a strong plea for Philemon to forgive Onesimus for running away and stealing from him and to welcome him back (vv. 8-9). Paul’s mention that he is aged and also a prisoner was probably made to gain Philemon’s approval. Paul must have been nearly sixty years …

Onesimus financial obligation
Paul asked Philemon to charge any financial obligation Onesimus might have to his account, but don’t forget that you owe me your life. (vv. 18-19). It appears that, as Philemon’s spiritual father, he was hoping that Philemon would feel a debt of gratitude and would want to …