Philemon 1: 19 Commentary

Jenny (Post #1): Theologians also wrestle with that section.

Here is my take . . .

Paul signed a promissory note (not an IOU). In the note Paul wrote, “I will repay it.” Paul promised to repay whatever damages Onesimus caused Philemon when he ran away as a servant-slave. Paul sat in a Roman jail for spreading the gospel of salvation through Jesus Christ. Onesimus, somehow, found his way to Paul and accepted the gospel there. Onesimus proved himself helpful to Paul, but Paul could not keep him because he belonged to his Master, Philemon. So, Paul sent him back.

Paul says he had authority to command Philemon to keep Onesimus for the cause of Christ, but declined to use that authority. Instead, Paul appealed to Philemon’s love for Christ. Paul sensed Philemon would free Onesimus to be useful in ministry because he loved Christ. Also, Paul was old and wanted Onesimus to be his private aide. Paul had come to love Onesimus as a father loves a son.

Paul says he made the promise to pay Philemon, even though Philemon owed Paul a private debt. Paul does not declare exactly how Philemon owed him, but likely it was for all the hours Paul spent teaching him God’s Word, and for private coaching and mentoring on how to be successful in ministry. Paul closes by reminding Philemon that Philemon, himself, is a bond-servant and owes a debt to Christ he cannot repay. So, releasing Onesimus to Paul for the sake of Christ would be the right thing to do.

By Roland G (wrote 1651 Bible Commentaries - permalink to this Commentary)
Posted on: 5/30/2011 05:34 am

In studying this verse, it seems as if Paul is saying in a sense that, “You, Philemon, owe me because I was instrumental in your salvation.”? However, we all work out our “own” salvation with fear and
trembling….we come to the Lord of our own volition - yes, someone may have witnessed to us and led us to accept Christ as our saviour, but are we
also indebted to that person as well? I am having a very hard time understanding Paul’s thought process behind this verse. Any information/opinion you can share on this verse would be greatly appreciated! Thank you and have a blessed week! Jenny Wakefield

By Jenny Wakefield (wrote 1 Bible Commentary - permalink to this Commentary)
Posted on: 5/29/2011 17:25 pm