Philemon 17
The power of the gospel transforms lives and relationships. – David Garland
Authority
Rather than throwing his apostolic weight around to bend Philemon's will to his own, Paul makes his appeal based on his new relationship with Onesimus, his old relationship with Philemon, and the potentially redefined relationship between Philemon and Onesimus. Philemon is free to do what his conscience dictates, but it is influenced by the gospel and his relationship with Paul. – David Garland
Slavery
Colossians 3.11
Forgiveness
Onesimus is need of forgiveness. Philemon is presented with an opportunity to forgive. And Paul-as-peacemaker is aggressively encouraging forgiveness at great personal sacrifice. - Adapted from Mark Dever
Community
Believing in Christ joins us to other believers in an intimate family unit. Within that new relationship, which takes pride of place in all our relationships and dictates how those other relationships are to be lived out, we bear responsibilities for one another. It is those responsibilities that Paul spells out in this letter. – Douglas Moo
Gospel
When Philemon brings Onesimus back and restores him, he will have a fuller understanding of what God has done for him in Christ. - Mark Dever commenting on verse 6
Some Things to Consider
How does the gospel inform your perception and practice of authority?
What "surprising things" does the gospel have to say to Philemon and Onesimus about slavery?
Do you ever find forgiveness difficult? Unjust? A weakness? How does Philemon challenge your thinking and motivate you to forgive?
What does Philemon seem to say about your personal faith being lived out in the community of faith?
Why does Dever draw the conclusion that he does on verse 6?
