Philemon 8-21
Paul’s Appeal for Onesimus
8 That is why I am boldly asking a favor of you. I could demand it in the name of Christ because it is the right thing for you to do.9 But because of our love, I prefer simply to ask you. Consider this as a request from me—Paul, an old man and now also a prisoner for the sake of Christ Jesus.*
10 I appeal to you to show kindness to my child, Onesimus. I became his father in the faith while here in prison.11 Onesimus* hasn’t been of much use to you in the past, but now he is very useful to both of us.12 I am sending him back to you, and with him comes my own heart.
13 I wanted to keep him here with me while I am in these chains for preaching the Good News, and he would have helped me on your behalf.14 But I didn’t want to do anything without your consent. I wanted you to help because you were willing, not because you were forced.15 It seems you lost Onesimus for a little while so that you could have him back forever.16 He is no longer like a slave to you. He is more than a slave, for he is a beloved brother, especially to me. Now he will mean much more to you, both as a man and as a brother in the Lord.
17 So if you consider me your partner, welcome him as you would welcome me.18 If he has wronged you in any way or owes you anything, charge it to me.19 I, PAUL, WRITE THIS WITH MY OWN HAND: I WILL REPAY IT. AND I WON’T MENTION THAT YOU OWE ME YOUR VERY SOUL!
20 Yes, my brother, please do me this favor* for the Lord’s sake. Give me this encouragement in Christ.
21 I am confident as I write this letter that you will do what I ask and even more!22 One more thing—please prepare a guest room for me, for I am hoping that God will answer your prayers and let me return to you soon.
Paul the lawyer, Paul the debator! For those of you that may not know, Onesimus was Philemon’s slave. He had run away. Paul is PLEADING with Philemon to not only welcome him back, but with open arms and as a brother in Christ and as a free man! A lot to ask…but Paul won’t mention that Philemon owes Paul his soul or that it is the right thing to do! Nope, instead he asks it as a favor.
Good stuff. Who is pleading on our account? Who are you pleading for?
Joe Kumor has been pleading for me and my family this week (The Beechner’s). One of our minivans bit the dust and needs the engine replaced. We had written it off and were gonna start the long journey to save up for another. But Joe called around and found some MUCH cheaper options. Thanks Joe.