Greetings (1–3)
- Introduction and Salutation: Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus, and Timothy greet Philemon, a beloved fellow worker, as well as Apphia, Archippus, and the church that meets in Philemon’s home. Paul offers grace and peace from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Thanksgiving and Prayer (4–7)
- Gratitude and Prayer: Paul expresses gratitude for Philemon’s love and faith, which he has shown toward the Lord Jesus and all the saints. He prays that Philemon’s faith will be effective in sharing the knowledge of every good thing they have in Christ, and that his love may encourage the hearts of the saints. Paul affirms that he has been greatly refreshed by Philemon’s love.
Paul’s Plea for Onesimus (8–21)
- Paul’s Boldness and Appeal (8–9): Paul, though confident in his authority as an apostle, chooses to appeal to Philemon out of love. He addresses Philemon with respect, as one who is both a partner and a fellow believer.
- Onesimus’ Transformation (10–16): Paul makes a personal appeal for Onesimus, who was once useless to Philemon but has now become useful to both Paul and Philemon. Onesimus, a runaway slave, has become a believer, and Paul offers to send him back, not just as a servant but as a beloved brother in the Lord. Paul encourages Philemon to receive Onesimus not just as a slave, but as a fellow Christian.
- Paul’s Willingness to Pay (17–19): Paul assures Philemon that he will take full responsibility for any wrongs Onesimus has done or any debt he owes, offering to repay it himself. Paul emphasizes that Philemon owes him his very life, but Paul’s request is not based on that debt, but on love.
- Paul’s Confidence in Philemon’s Response (20–21): Paul expresses confidence that Philemon will do even more than he asks, highlighting his trust in Philemon’s Christian character and generosity.
Final Request, Greetings and Benediction (22–25)
- Final Request (22): Paul requests that Philemon prepare a guest room for him, as he hopes to be released from prison soon and visit Philemon.
- Greetings and Benediction (23–25): Paul sends greetings from fellow believers, including Epaphras, Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke. He concludes with a benediction, wishing Philemon grace from the Lord Jesus Christ.