Philemon

Why was this book written?

      The letter Paul wrote to Philemon was mainly about Paul sending back Philemon's slave, Onesimus back to him. Onesimus had apparently ran away from Philemon and had come to know the Lord. Paul speaks very highly of him so that Philemon would be merciful to him. What Paul was asking was against the law, but he believed in Onesimus and hoped Philemon would too.

What is the main idea of this book?

      The main idea in this book is forgiveness. Onesimus is a run away slave that encounters God. God forgives him of his sin and Onesimus turns his life over to God. Paul sees the transformation and is even blessed by Onesimus (1:10-11). Paul almost begs for Philemon to forgive Onesimus is great sin (1:17-18). He gives one last appeal by saying that Philemon owes Paul his life because Paul brought him the gospel (1:19). Paul shows that he doesn't favor anyone and will offer forgiveness to anyone if they repent just as Christ died for all sinners.