Philemon study section

Philemon related passages

Philemon pictures the great exchange and the one family the gospel creates in Christ.

Within the Bible

Companion: Colossians, written and carried at the same time, names Onesimus and greets the same believers.
Thematic Connections:
- Colossians 4:7-9 - Onesimus commended as “our faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you.”
- Galatians 3:28 - “There is neither slave nor free... you are all one in Christ Jesus,” the truth behind Paul’s appeal.
- 2 Corinthians 5:18-21 - The ministry of reconciliation and the great exchange that Philemon pictures.
- Matthew 18:21-35 - The parable of the forgiven servant who must forgive.

Philemon pictures the reconciling gospel of Christ:

The great exchange: “Charge that to my account” mirrors Christ bearing our debt so we are freely received (Philemon 18; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Colossians 2:14).
One family in Christ: Slave and master as brothers fulfills the gospel that makes all one in Christ (Philemon 16; Galatians 3:28).
Received in the Beloved: “Receive him as you would receive me” echoes how God receives us for Christ’s sake (Philemon 17; Ephesians 1:6).
Forgiveness reflecting God’s: Paul’s appeal embodies the forgiveness we have received and must extend (Philemon 10, 18; Matthew 18:32-33; Colossians 3:13).