Receive Him as Me

Paul, a prisoner for Christ Jesus, writes with Timothy to Philemon, a dear fellow worker, and to the church in his house. Paul thanks God for Philemon's love and faith toward the Lord Jesus and all believers. He says the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through Philemon.

Paul says he could command Philemon, but for love's sake he appeals instead. He appeals for Onesimus, who became his child in the faith while Paul was in chains. Onesimus was once useless to Philemon, but now he is useful to both of them. Paul is sending him back, calling him my own heart. Paul wanted to keep him as a helper but would do nothing without Philemon's consent.

Paul says perhaps Onesimus was apart from Philemon for a time so Philemon could have him forever. He would come back no longer as a slave, but more than a slave, a beloved brother. Paul asks Philemon to receive Onesimus as he would receive Paul himself. If Onesimus has wronged Philemon or owes him anything, Paul will repay it. Paul trusts Philemon to do even more than he asks.