The Epistle to Philemon is a personal letter from the Apostle Paul to Philemon, a wealthy Christian who lived in Colossae. The letter is unique in that it is addressed to an individual, rather than a church or community. In this letter, Paul appeals to Philemon to forgive and receive back his runaway slave, Onesimus, whom Paul has converted to Christianity while in prison. This letter is a beautiful example of Paul’s persuasive style of writing, and his ability to appeal to the heart of his readers. In this summary, we will examine the various ways in which Paul persuades Philemon to forgive and reconcile with Onesimus.
Paul’s Plea for Onesimus
In the first section of the letter, Paul makes a heartfelt plea to Philemon to receive Onesimus back as a brother in Christ. Paul describes how Onesimus has become a beloved son to him during his imprisonment, and how he has been a great help in spreading the gospel. Paul acknowledges that Onesimus had run away from Philemon and that he had been unprofitable to him in the past, but now he is a changed man. Paul appeals to Philemon to receive him back, not as a slave, but as a brother in Christ. Paul’s persuasive argument is that if Philemon forgives Onesimus and receives him back, he will not only be doing the right thing, but he will also be setting an example of forgiveness and reconciliation for others to follow.
Paul’s Appeal to Philemon’s Faith
In the second section of the letter, Paul appeals to Philemon’s faith and his Christian values. He reminds Philemon that he is a fellow believer and that he has been a great blessing to him in the past. Paul argues that if Philemon truly believes in Christ, then he must forgive Onesimus and receive him back as a brother in Christ. He reminds Philemon that Christ himself forgave and reconciled us to God, and that we must also forgive and reconcile with others. Paul’s persuasive argument is that by forgiving and reconciling with Onesimus, Philemon will be demonstrating his faith in action and setting an example for others to follow.
Paul’s Hope for Reconciliation
In the third section of the letter, Paul expresses his hope for reconciliation between Philemon and Onesimus. He tells Philemon that he is sending Onesimus back to him, not as a slave, but as a brother. Paul’s persuasive argument is that by receiving Onesimus back as a brother, Philemon will be demonstrating his love and compassion for him. Paul hopes that this act of forgiveness and reconciliation will restore the relationship between Philemon and Onesimus and bring glory to God.
Paul’s Promise to Repay Any Debt
In the fourth section of the letter, Paul promises to repay any debt that Onesimus owes to Philemon. He tells Philemon that if Onesimus has wronged him or owes him anything, he will repay it himself. Paul’s persuasive argument is that by offering to repay any debt, he is demonstrating his sincerity and his willingness to make things right. Paul hopes that this gesture will help to ease any tension or resentment that Philemon may feel towards Onesimus.
Paul’s Final Greetings and Benediction
In the final section of the letter, Paul sends his final greetings to Philemon and his household. He tells them that he is confident that Philemon will do the right thing and receive Onesimus back as a brother. He ends the letter with a benediction, asking God to bless Philemon and his household and to grant them peace and grace.
In conclusion, the Epistle to Philemon is a beautiful example of Paul’s persuasive style of writing. In this letter, Paul appeals to Philemon’s heart and his Christian values, urging him to forgive and reconcile with Onesimus. Paul’s persuasive arguments are based on love, forgiveness, and reconciliation, and he hopes that his letter will bring glory to God. This letter serves as a reminder to us all that forgiveness and reconciliation are essential components of the Christian faith and that we must always strive to live out these values in our lives.