Philemon 1:19

I, Paul, write this with my own hand. I will repay it--not to mention that you owe me your very self.

Study Bible

I, Paul, write this with my own hand.
Paul's personal touch in writing this letter is significant. In the ancient world, letters were often dictated to a scribe, but Paul emphasizes his personal involvement by writing this part himself. This act underscores the importance and sincerity of his message. It also reflects the personal relationship he has with Philemon, highlighting the gravity of the request he is making. This personal touch is seen in other letters, such as Galatians 6:11, where Paul mentions writing with large letters, possibly due to poor eyesight or to emphasize his point.

I will repay it—
Paul is referring to any financial or material debt that Onesimus, the runaway slave, might owe Philemon. By offering to repay, Paul is taking on the role of a mediator, reflecting the sacrificial nature of Christ, who paid the debt of sin for humanity. This act of assuming another's debt is a practical demonstration of Christian love and forgiveness. It also echoes the principle found in Proverbs 22:26-27 about not being a guarantor for another's debt, yet Paul willingly takes this risk for the sake of reconciliation.

not to mention that you owe me your very self.
Here, Paul gently reminds Philemon of the spiritual debt he owes to Paul, likely because Paul was instrumental in Philemon's conversion to Christianity. This reminder serves to strengthen Paul's appeal for Onesimus, as Philemon's spiritual life and eternal destiny were profoundly impacted by Paul's ministry. This phrase highlights the interconnectedness of the early Christian community and the deep bonds formed through shared faith. It also reflects the broader biblical theme of spiritual indebtedness, as seen in 1 Corinthians 4:15, where Paul refers to himself as a spiritual father to the Corinthians.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul
The apostle who authored the letter to Philemon. He is writing from prison, advocating for Onesimus, a runaway slave.

2. Philemon
A Christian leader and the recipient of the letter. He is a wealthy man who hosts a church in his home and is the master of Onesimus.

3. Onesimus
A slave who belonged to Philemon. He ran away, met Paul, and became a Christian. Paul is sending him back to Philemon with this letter.

4. Rome
The likely place where Paul is imprisoned and from where he writes this letter.

5. Colossae
The city where Philemon resides and where the church meets in his home.

Teaching Points

The Power of Personal Responsibility
Paul takes personal responsibility for Onesimus's debt, illustrating the importance of standing in the gap for others and taking responsibility for our actions and those we mentor.

The Call to Forgiveness
Philemon is encouraged to forgive Onesimus, reminding us of the Christian call to forgive others as Christ forgave us.

The Role of Advocacy in Christian Community
Paul acts as an advocate for Onesimus, showing the importance of interceding and advocating for others within the body of Christ.

The Transformative Power of the Gospel
Onesimus's transformation from a runaway slave to a brother in Christ exemplifies the life-changing power of the Gospel.

The Importance of Reconciliation
The letter emphasizes reconciliation, urging believers to seek restoration in relationships, reflecting the reconciliation we have with God through Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Paul's willingness to repay Onesimus's debt reflect the teachings of Jesus on forgiveness and reconciliation?

2. In what ways can we act as advocates for others in our Christian communities, following Paul's example?

3. How does the transformation of Onesimus encourage us to view others through the lens of the Gospel?

4. What practical steps can we take to foster reconciliation in our own relationships, as Paul encourages Philemon to do?

5. How does understanding the cultural and historical context of Philemon enhance our interpretation and application of this letter today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 18:21-35
This passage on forgiveness parallels Paul's appeal to Philemon to forgive Onesimus, highlighting the Christian duty to forgive as we have been forgiven.

Galatians 6:1-2
Paul’s call to bear one another's burdens connects to his willingness to repay any debt Onesimus owes, demonstrating the principle of supporting fellow believers.

2 Corinthians 5:17-19
The theme of reconciliation in Christ is mirrored in Paul's desire for reconciliation between Philemon and Onesimus.