Refusal to Forgive Onesimus
Category: Failure of love & reconciliation
Could endure: Welcome Onesimus as a brother in Christ.
“No longer as a slave, but better than a slave, as a dear brother.” (Philemon 16)
Cross-Refs: Matthew 6:14–15; Colossians 3:13.
Chose wrongly (implied possibility): Keep resentment and treat him as a runaway slave.
“If he has done you any wrong or owes you anything, charge it to me.” (Philemon 18 — Paul interceding against unforgiveness)
Cross-Refs: Matthew 18:28–30; James 2:13.
Endured (negatively): If unforgiving, Philemon would dishonor Christ.
“Confident of your obedience, I write to you…” (Philemon 21 — Paul urges against failure)
Cross-Refs: 1 John 4:20; Mark 11:25.
Why (wrong motive): Pride, sense of injustice, social norms of slavery.
“Perhaps the reason he was separated from you for a little while was that you might have him back forever.” (Philemon 15 — Paul reframes perspective)
Cross-Refs: Genesis 50:20; Romans 8:28.
Result (if refusing): Missed testimony of gospel reconciliation.
“So if you consider me a partner, welcome him as you would welcome me.” (Philemon 17)
Cross-Refs: John 13:34–35; 2 Corinthians 5:18.