The Substance of the Appeal. Philemon 17-19.
So if you consider me your partner, receive him as you would receive me. If he has wronged you at all, or owes you anything, charge that to my account. I, Paul, write this with my own hand: I will repay it – to say nothing of your owing me even your own self.
Dear God’s People,
Paul finally makes the concern of his heart plain. Onesimus is in danger of severe punishment, even execution, as were all captured, runaway slaves. Paul pleads for him to be shown kindness instead.
Partnership (v. 17). When Paul was at Colossae, Philemon partnered with him. We can assume that the partnership was with regard to the preaching of the gospel, although we cannot rule out the possibility that Paul practiced his trade with the assistance of Philemon. Whatever the case, the two had been partners and Paul is appealing to their friendship.
Promise (vv. 18-19a). Paul’s plea is also based on his personal promise. Onesimus may have stolen from Philemon when he fled, or he may have accrued debt by his absence, or Paul may be referring to the fact that Onesimus may have become a slave in order to pay outstanding debt, which debt he had fled before completing payment of. Paul says he will pay. This is an interesting side of Paul. He can be intolerant with those he considers uncommitted (Acts 15:37-39) but overly gracious with those he considers sincere.
Past (v. 19b). Just in case Philemon refuses to heed Paul’s request, as unlikely as that possibility might be, Paul is ready to call in old debts. He reminds Philemon that he owes Paul his very life. The possibilities are many. Paul could have healed Philemon of a life-threatening illness, for instance, or more likely, that Paul had led him to Christ. Philemon is left with no options, really, but to grant Paul’s request.
It would be good to ask ourselves if we have anyone in our debt, who would be willing to do anything we ask. If not, what kind of friends have we been to others?
Your Loving Pastor Chris.