PHILEMON

INTRODUCTION TO THIS STUDY

The purpose of this study work is to give you the original Greek language words and definitions for all the key words in this selected Bible text. This work does not make any effort to interpret the text in question, though some interpretation may occur naturally as a result of the study. The English translation used is the King James (Authorized) Version, not because it is the best translation available, but because I just plain prefer it for study!

All Scripture text will be presented in normal cased lettering, and all notes within the text will be in TRUE TYPE FONT, as shown. This (I hope) will allow you to avoid confusion between God's Word and my notes. As I update this website, I will continue to embellish the text so that anyone using NETSCAPE or MSIE 3.0 or higher will be able to read the document easier. Greek tenses are abbreviated as follows:

• GREEK TENSES:
• PR= Present Tense: Shows action in present time. When used with Active Voice, and Indicative Mood, often shows linear or continuing action.
• AO= Aorist Tense : Simple, undefined action. The time of the action is undefined, except in the indicative mood.
• FUT= Future Tense : Shows action of the verb as defined in the future.
• PER= Perfect Tense: The action was completed in the past, but has lasting and continuing results into the future.
• IMP= Imperfect Tense: Used only in the indicative mood, and refers to continuous or linear action in past time. As in "I was having".
• PLPF= Pluperfect Tense: The action was completed in the past, with continuing results in the past.
• GREEK CASES:
• GEN= Genitive Case: Usually indicates possession, though it can denote source of the action.
• INST = Instrumental Case: Usually denotes action on the object of the verb.
• DAT= Dative Case
• NOM= Nominative Case
• ACC= Accusative
• PL= Plural
• SG= Singular
• GREEK VOICES:
• AC= Active Voice: Action was completed by the subject of the verb.
• PAS= Passive Voice: The subject receives the action of the verb.
• MID= Middle Voice: The subject acts in some way upon itself or to itself.
• GREEK MOODS:
• IND= Indicative Mood : Makes an assertion of fact, and is used with all Greek tenses. Example: they will go, she saw.
• OPT= Optative Mood: Rarely used, it usually expresses a wish or desire.
• IMP= Imperative Mood: A command to do something.
• SUBJ= Subjective Mood: Makes an assertion about which there is some doubt, uncertainty, or indefiniteness.
• OTHER ABBREVIATIONS:
• PART= Participle : A verbal adjective, such as "having gone, receiving the gift".
• ABL= Ablative of source: When something is out of something. Example, The Spirit out of God.
• INF= Infinitive: A verbal noun, examples = to see, to go, to throw.

Philemon was written by Paul during his first Roman imprisonment (62 AD). This letter is interesting in that, unlike Paul's other writings, it was NOT addressed to the Church, but was a private letter written to his friend Philemon (though the Colossian Church DID meet in Philemon's house). Though not addressed to the Church (evident in the context of the letter, as well as evident from the fact that Paul did NOT start with "Paul, an Apostle", the title of his office:

Romans 1:1  "Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God .."

1 Corinthians 1:1  "Paul, called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God, and Sosthenes our brother .."

2 Corinthians 1:1  "Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, unto the church of God which is at Corinth, with all the saints which are in all Achaia"

Galatians 1:1  "Paul, an apostle, (not of men, neither by man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father, who raised him from the dead;)"

Ephesians 1:1  "Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, to the saints which are at Ephesus, and to the faithful in Christ Jesus:"

Colossians 1:1  "Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timotheus our brother,"

1 Timothy 1:1  "Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the commandment of God our Saviour, and Lord Jesus Christ, which is our hope;"

2 Timothy 1:1  "Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, according to the promise of life which is in Christ Jesus,"

Titus 1:1  "Paul, a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of God's elect, and the acknowledging of the truth which is after godliness;"

The only place where Paul does NOT, as I said before, start the letter with his Apostolic authority stated is in Philippians (which was a maturing Church who accepted Paul's authority without question), Thessalonians, which was a Church that, though confused about the Rapture, accepted Paul's authority and were OPERATIONAL in their GRACE OPERATION toward one another (2 Thessalonians 1:3 ".. your faith groweth exceedingly, and the charity of every one of you all toward each other aboundeth"), and in the letter to Philemon, who was Paul's friend.

Though NOT addressed to the Church, but a private letter, there are a number of Grace Principles that we can learn from this letter. Philemon was a wealthy SLAVE OWNING Christian. His slave Onesimus (pronounced on-ay'-sim-os) had left Philemon's household, perhaps after taking some things of value, and while a fugitive found the Apostle Paul. Onesimus was introduced to Jesus Christ by Paul, became saved, and now Paul was sending him back to Philemon.

This is VERY interesting, for Jewish Law, contrary to Roman Law, gave asylum to escaped slaves:

Deuteronomy 23:15-16 "Thou shalt not deliver unto his master the servant which is escaped from his master unto thee: [16]  He shall dwell with thee, even among you, in that place which he shall choose in one of thy gates, where it liketh him best: thou shalt not oppress him."

Though slavery and slave owning was allowed within Israel, slaves were to be treated with respect. If a Hebrew was sold into slavery to another, this yoke of bondage was REVOKED in the seventh year of service:

Deuteronomy 15:12-18 "And if thy brother, an Hebrew man, or an Hebrew woman, be sold unto thee, and serve thee six years; then in the seventh year thou shalt let him go free from thee. [13] And when thou sendest him out free from thee, thou shalt not let him go away empty: [14]  Thou shalt furnish him liberally out of thy flock, and out of thy floor, and out of thy winepress: of that wherewith the LORD thy God hath blessed thee thou shalt give unto him. [15]  And thou shalt remember that thou wast a bondman in the land of Egypt, and the LORD thy God redeemed thee: therefore I command thee this thing to day. [16]  And it shall be, if he say unto thee, I will not go away from thee; because he loveth thee and thine house, because he is well with thee; [17]  Then thou shalt take an aul, and thrust it through his ear unto the door, and he shall be thy servant for ever. And also unto thy maidservant thou shalt do likewise. [18] It shall not seem hard unto thee, when thou sendest him away free from thee; for he hath been worth a double hired servant to thee, in serving thee six years: and the LORD thy God shall bless thee in all that thou doest."

unless that slave decided, of his own accord, to remain under bondage - then he was allowed to do so.

Onesimus was, indeed, a fugitive or runaway slave when he found Paul, and, according to Jewish National Law, Onesimus was to be given asylum by Paul. We're not talking about moral Law, but national law, one of the Divine Institutions that governed Israel. Paul, contrary to this, SENT ONESIMUS BACK TO PHILEMON. Why? Because, though Onesimus was IN THIS LIFE a slave to Philemon, the Cross of Christ elevated him above this to BROTHERHOOD STATUS WITH PHILEMON. Paul sent Onesimus back to Philemon in order to ALLOW BOTH BRETHREN to function in Grace one toward another.

It is one thing to be SAVED by Grace. It is quite another thing to LIVE YOUR LIFE by Grace. Words are easy to say. But CAN YOU LIVE YOUR GRACE? This was the opportunity that Paul gave both Onesimus and Philemon.

Onesimus was to leave the relative safety of Paul's side and present himself to Philemon. He would do this knowing the dangers involved, but LIVING YOUR LIFE IN GRACE IS RISKY. Philemon could accept Onesimus as a brother, forgive him, and take him into the Colossian Church. Or Philemon could have Onesimus hobbled, crippled by cutting or breaking one of his feet so he couldn't run away again.

Philemon was encouraged by Paul to accept Onesimus ".. not now as a servant, but above a servant, a brother beloved, specially to me, but how much more unto thee, both in the flesh, and in the Lord?" (Philemon 1:16). Philemon did this NOT TRULY KNOWING that Onesimus was saved. He was to allow a man who had run away after stealing something valuable from his household BACK INTO THE HOUSE BECAUSE OF GRACE. Words are easy to say, but CAN YOU LIVE YOUR GRACE? Many who promote and speak Grace CANNOT LIVE IT because they will not take the risk necessary to live Grace.

The challenge of the Book of Philemon is a challenge to every believer: Can you live in the Grace that bought your salvation? Can you learn to exercise God's love, which is Grace in action, toward others - regardless as to their real or imagined response to you? Can you continue to function in the Modus Operandi of Grace whether others respond in kind or not? Can you ignore your rights under the Law in order to express Grace toward others?

Chuck Swindoll in his book, The Grace Awakening, states (pg 45):

"Let's imagine that you have ... a son whom you love dearly. Tragically, one day you discover that your son was horribly murdered. After a lengthy search the investigators of the crime find the killer. You have a choice. If you used every means in your power to kill the murderer for his crime, that would be vengeance. If, however, you're content to sit back and let the legal authorities take over and execute on him what is proper - a fair trial, a plea of guilty, capital punishment - that is justice. But if you should plead for the pardon of the murderer, forgive him completely, invite him into your home, and adopt him as your own son, that is Grace .."

That is what Philemon was being asked to do - to step beyond the boundaries of conventional Law, to go beyond what the Divine Institution of government asked, and to allow Onesimus to enter his household as AN EQUAL PARTNER, a brother, a fellow servant for Christ - regardless of his past performance. That's Grace!

• Salutation: Verses 1-3

• Mature Status Of Philemon Recognized: Verses 4-7

• Purpose Of This Epistle Expressed: Verses 8-12

• Saved Status Of Onesimus Expressed: Verses 13-15

• Closing Paragraph: Verses 16-25

Philemon 1:1:

a prisoner (THOUGH IN HIS FIRST ROMAN IMPRISONMENT UNDER NERO, PAUL ONLY RECOGNIZED HIMSELF AS A PRISONER OF CHRIST. Why? See Table 1)

of Jesus Christ, and Timothy our brother, unto Philemon (pronounced fil-ay'mon, means "one who kisses")

our dearly beloved, and fellowlabourer,
 

Table 1 1. Though Paul was in his first Roman imprisonment, why did he only say that he was a "prisoner" (desmios [pronounced des'-mee-os], one in bondage to) of Jesus Christ? (2 Timothy 1:8-9) 2 Timothy 1:8-9  "Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God; [9]  Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began" Ephesians 4:1-3  "I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, [2] With all lowliness and meekness, with long-suffering, forbearing one another in love; [3]  Endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace."

Philemon 1:2:

and Archippus (Archippos {pronounced ar'-khip-pos}, meaning "master of the horse". THE SON OF PHILEMON, WHO WAS ALSO PASTOR OF THE CHURCH AT LAODICEA. HE WAS A POOR MINISTER, AND A LARGE PART OF THE REASON THAT THE LAODICEANS WERE FALLEN FROM GRACE.)
 

Table 2 2. Who was Archippus? From the text we see he was a "fellow soldier" (sustratiotes [pronounced soos-trat-ee-o'-tace]), not a "fellow laborer" (sunergos [pronounced soon-er-gos']) as Philemon was. Go to Colossians 4:15-17 to see who Archippus was, and what his function in the Body was. Colossians 4:15-17 "Salute the brethren which are in Laodicea, and Nymphas, and the church which is in his house. [16]  And when this epistle is read among you, cause that it be read also in the church of the Laodiceans; and that ye likewise read the epistle from Laodicea. [17]  And say to Archippus, Take heed to the ministry which thou hast received in the Lord, that thou fulfill it." a. Was Archippus a good Pastor at Laodicea? (Revelation 3:14-22, cw 1 John 5:1-5) Revelation 3:14-22  "And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans {Archippus} write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God; [15]  I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. [16]  So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. [17]  Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: [18]  I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eye salve, that thou mayest see. [19]  As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: {Note: Grace does NOT overlook sinning, nor does it "give us liberty to sin". Grace is wonderful because God will NEVER turn away from us when we err, but Grace DEMANDS GRACE PERFORMANCE} be zealous therefore, and repent. [20]  Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. {This verse is written to CHRISTIANS, not unbelievers} [21]  To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne. [22]  He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches." 1 John 5:1-5 "Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God: and every one that loveth him that begat loveth him also that is begotten of him. [2]  By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, and keep his commandments. [3]  For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous. [4]  For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith. [5]  Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God?"

our fellowsoldier, and to the church in thy house:

Philemon 1:3:

to you, and peace, (EIRENE = PEACE, GOD'S PEACE)

from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. (see Table 3)
 

Table 3 3. "Grace to you, and peace" are common introductory statements made when the Apostles wrote the Church: Romans 1:7  "To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ." 1 Corinthians 1:3  "Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ." 2 Corinthians 1:2  "Grace be to you and peace from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ." Galatians 1:3  "Grace be to you and peace from God the Father, and from our Lord Jesus Christ" Ephesians 1:2  "Grace be to you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ." Colossians 1:2  "To the saints and faithful brethren in Christ which are at Colosse: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ." 1 Thessalonians 1:1  "Paul, and Silvanus, and Timotheus, unto the church of the Thessalonians which is in God the Father and in the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ." 2 Thessalonians 1:2  "Grace unto you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ." 1 Timothy 1:2  "Unto Timothy, my own son in the faith: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God our Father and Jesus Christ our Lord." 2 Timothy 1:2  "To Timothy, my dearly beloved son: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord." Titus 1:4  "To Titus, mine own son after the common faith: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ our Saviour." Philemon 1:3  "Grace to you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ." 1 Peter 1:2  "Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied." 2 Peter 1:2  "Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord" 2 John 1:3  "Grace be with you, mercy, and peace, from God the Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of the Father, in truth and love." Revelation 1:4  "John to the seven churches which are in Asia: Grace be unto you, and peace, from him which is, and which was, and which is to come; and from the seven Spirits which are before his throne" Why was this expression so popular in the early Church? Why did Paul use the same expression toward Philemon in this private letter? 4. Grace is both that which saves us, as well as that in which we operate! a. Grace is FROM Jesus, not from any other source (John 1:14-17): John 1:14-17 "And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. [15] John bare witness of him, and cried, saying, This was he of whom I spake, He that cometh after me is preferred before me: for he was before me. [16]  And of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace. [17]  For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ." b. God's Grace through Jesus is, from God's standpoint, HIS OPERATIONAL LOVE. He did not just say, "I love you", but proved it by giving us UNMERITED SALVATION by His Grace (Romans 3:23-26): Romans 3:23-26 "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; [24]  Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: [25]  Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; [26]  To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus." c. Grace BINDS us to Christ, RELEASES us from the Law of Moses, EMPOWERS us to live for God, and, as we grow as believers, IMPRISONS us to Jesus (Philemon 1:1; Romans 6:14-18): Philemon 1:1  "Paul, a prisoner of Jesus Christ, and Timothy our brother, unto Philemon our dearly beloved, and fellow labourer" Romans 6:14-18 "For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace. [15] What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid. [16]  Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness? [17]  But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. [18]  Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness." d. Grace not only saves, and bestows unmerited favor on us, but also is the modus operandi of the Christian way of life (1 Corinthians 15:8-10): 1 Corinthians 15:8-10 "And last of all he was seen of me also, as of one born out of due time. [9]  For I am the least of the apostles, that am not meet to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. [10] But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I labored more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me." e. We receive the Grace of God in vain when we erroneously consider that Grace is a license to sin, a license to follow the practices of the unbeliever, rather than what it should be - a means by which we are to serve Christ in this life. (2 Corinthians 6:1-3, 14-18) 2 Corinthians 6:1-3, 14-18 "We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain.  [2]  (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succored thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.) [3]  Giving no offense in any thing, that the ministry be not blamed ..... [14]  Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? [15]  And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? [16]  And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. [17]  Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, [18]  And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty." f. Though the Grace of God that brought salvation to is complete (for we are complete in Him), we are to "grow in Grace", grow in our ability to operate from the power of God's Grace, bestowing Grace on those around us (2 Peter 3:18; 2 Peter 1:1-2). 2 Peter 3:18  "But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen." 2 Peter 1:1-2 "Simon Peter, a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ, to them that have obtained like precious faith with us through the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ: [2]  Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord" g. Though we are saved by Grace, completely saved, complete in Him, we are not perfect - but are all growing through the Word of God, through the gifts that are graciously given to the Church by our Lord, and in living Grace. We MUST learn to live under the power of Grace, and under no other power. God gives us opportunities in this life to exercise Grace toward others, and thus grow in this operation. ONLY when we reach a full and operational understanding of Grace do we have PEACE in our lives - for at that moment, like Paul, we can allow ourselves to fully surrender to Christ - to become His prisoner. When we do that, we are powerful BECAUSE OF HIM.  BOTH Philemon and Onesimus were being given this opportunity to "grow in Grace" by Paul, as Onesimus - the fugitive - presented himself to his owner Philemon. (Ephesians 4:11-19; 2 Corinthians 12:7-10) Ephesians 4:11-19 "And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; [12]  For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: [13]  Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: [14]  That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; [15]  But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: [16]  From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love. [17] This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind, [18]  Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart: [19]  Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness." 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 "And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. [8]  For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. [9]  And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. [10]  Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong."

Philemon 1:4:

making (POIEO, PR MID PART = MAKING, PRODUCING, DOING)

mention (MNEIA, ACC SG = REMEMBRANCE)

of thee always in (PANTOTE = AT ALL TIMES, AT THE TIME OF)

my prayers,
 

Table 5: Development of the Grace Concept Through Our God 5. From the beginning, the Lord established a love relationship with man. a. Jesus walked and talked with Adam in the Garden (Genesis 3:8-9). Genesis 3:8-9 "And they heard the voice of the LORD God walking in the garden in the cool of the day: and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the LORD God amongst the trees of the garden. [9] And the LORD God called unto Adam, and said unto him, Where art thou?" b. Prior to the entrance of sin into the world, it appears that this was the NORM, not the exception to the rule - that God routinely walked and communed with Adam. This was not the norm, though, after Adam allowed sin to enter into the world, and death by sin (Romans 5:12-14). Romans 5:12-14 "Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned: [13]  (For until the law sin was in the world: but sin is not imputed when there is no law. [14]  Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come." c. However, though Adam's sin caused a break in THE NORMAL RELATIONSHIP between God and man (i.e. routine fellowship on a daily basis), Adam's sin DID NOT disrupt the Grace of God, for Grace is the outward manifestation of God's love for man. In order to eradicate Grace, you would have to change God's nature, for "God is love" (1 John 4:8). 1 John 4:8  "He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love." d. Since God IS love, that is, love is integral to His nature, and He loves us, He manifests His love to us even when we neither earn nor deserve it. He did this in the Garden with Adam and Eve when He took away their clothes of leaves, and sacrificed animals to clothe them (Genesis 3.7, 21). This was done though they neither earned nor deserved it. Genesis 3:7, 21  "And the eyes of them both were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons.  [21] Unto Adam also and to his wife did the LORD God make coats of skins, and clothed them." e. The love of God MUST manifest undeserved expressions of love toward His creation, and these undeserved expressions of love are what we call "Grace". Notice how the ACTION OF GOD'S LOVE which is Grace has expressed itself in history (John 3.16-18; Romans 5.17-19): John 3.16-18  "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. [17]  For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. [18]  He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God." Romans 5.17-19  "For if by one man's offense death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.) [18]  Therefore as by the offense of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life. [19]  For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous." f. God's character of love and righteousness has NEVER changed. However, with the offense of Adam, man brought on himself the Old Sin Nature. This sin nature manifests itself in graceless behavior, and is freely evident in all those who are "children of Satan" rather than those saved by Grace, "children of God" (John 8.41-47): John 8.41-47  "Ye do the deeds of your father. Then said they to him, We be not born of fornication; we have one Father, even God. [42]  Jesus said unto them, If God were your Father, ye would love me: for I proceeded forth and came from God; neither came I of myself, but he sent me. [43]  Why do ye not understand my speech? even because ye cannot hear my word. [44]  Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it. [45]  And because I tell you the truth, ye believe me not. [46]  Which of you convinceth me of sin? And if I say the truth, why do ye not believe me? [47]  He that is of God heareth God's words: ye therefore hear them not, because ye are not of God." g. The Law was not given to present an alternate way to be saved, but was given to open our eyes to the fact we cannot approach the sinless purity of God in our own power. We MUST come to God through faith in the finished work of Christ, and we MUST recognize Grace as not only our NORMAL MODE OF OPERATION TOWARD GOD AND OTHERS, just as as it is God's NORMAL MODE OF OPERATION. (Galatians 3:21-29) Galatians 3:21-29  "Is the law then against the promises of God? God forbid: for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law. [22]  But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe. [23]  But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed. [24] Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. [25] But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster. [26]  For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. [27]  For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. [28] There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. [29 And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise." h. Since Grace is our normal mode of operation as believers, both God AND Satan give us opportunities to express and grow in our outward expression of love, i.e. Grace or Gracelessness. We have a choice to either follow God's way (Grace toward others) or Satan's way (Gracelessness, vengeance, me first) (Isaiah 14.12-15; 1 John 4:9-11): Isaiah 14.12-15  "How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations! [13]  For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north: [14]  I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High. [15]  Yet thou shalt be brought down to hell, to the sides of the pit." 1 John 4:9-11  "In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. [10]  Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. [11]  Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another." i. Philemon was being given an opportunity by both God as well as His apostle, Paul, to express Grace toward Onesimus. Paul begins his address to Philemon by telling him how he, Paul, continues to express Grace toward Philemon by constantly praying for him.

Philemon 1:5:

and faith, (PISTIS, ACC SG = WHAT IS BELIEVED, DOCTRINAL MATURITY)

which thou hast (ECHO, PR AC IND = KEEP ON HAVING AND HOLDING)

toward (PROS + ACC = FACE TO FACE WITH)

the Lord Jesus, and toward all saints; (HAGIOS = THE HOLY OR SET APART ONES)
 
 

Table 6 6. In our society, we have often confused "love" with emotion, sensuality, or like. Love is more than a word, but true Love (Agape) is outwardly expressed through Grace behavior. Paul heard from Epaphrus (Pastor of Colossae) of how loving Philemon was not just because he went around saying "I love you", but because that love was expressed outwardly toward both God and others.  a. This is impossible if you do not know Jesus as Savior (John 1:14-17): John 1:14-17 "And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. [15] John bare witness of him, and cried, saying, This was he of whom I spake, He that cometh after me is preferred before me: for he was before me. [16]  And of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace. [17]  For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ." b. Philemon's love was impressive because it was MORE THAN WORDS. It was expressed outwardly toward both God (Jesus) and ALL saints. This type of love cannot be faked, but comes as the believer understands the Grace of God as represented in Scripture (1 Peter 1:22-23). This is a love that is REACHABLE, for it IS A COMMANDMENT from our Lord Jesus (John 13:34-35; Mark 12:29-31; Romans 13:8): 1 Peter 1:22-23 "Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently: [23]  Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever." John 13:34-35 "A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. [35]  By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another." Mark 12:29-31 "And Jesus answered him, The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord: [30]  And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. [31]  And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these." Romans 13:8  "Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law."

Philemon 1:6:

of thy faith may become (GINOMAI, AO AC SUBJ = MAY BECOME SOMETHING IT WAS NOT BEFORE)

effectual (ENERGES, PREDICATE NOMINATIVE = OPERATIONAL)

by the acknowledging (EN + INST, EPIGNOSIS = BY MEANS OF SOUL KNOWLEDGE)

of every good thing (GEN SG, PAS + AGATHOS = OF ALL THE INTRINSIC GOOD)

which is in you in Christ Jesus.
 

Table 7 7. We share our faith much more effectively when our PROFESSED faith reflects a Grace oriented life. The unbeliever does NOT need a mere profession of faith. If mere profession were sufficient, then Buddhism, Mormonism, Hinduism, Ba'haism, Islamism, Druidism, and the countless myriad's of "isms" in our world today would be MORE THAN SUFFICIENT for salvation. Christianity differs from world religions in that it is a SUPERNATURAL RELATIONSHIP between Creator and created, a relationship that so changes the created being that we begin to walk in newness of life. (John 3.7; 1 Peter 1.23; 2 Corinthians 5.17; Galatians 6.15; Ephesians 4.24-27; Colossians 3.10-13) John 3:7  "Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again." 1 Peter 1:23  "Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever." 2 Corinthians 5:17  "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new." Galatians 6:15  "For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature." Ephesians 4:24-27 "And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. [25]  Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbor: for we are members one of another. [26]  Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: [27]  Neither give place to the devil. Colossians 3:10-13 "And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him: [11]  Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all. [12] Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, long-suffering; [13]  Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye."

Philemon 1:7:

great joy (ACC SG, POLUS + ACC SG, CHARA = MUCH INNER HAPPINESS)

and consolation (ACC SG, PARAKLESIS = ENCOURAGEMENT)

in thy love, because the bowels (HOTI, CAUSAL CONJUNCTION + NOM PL, SPLAGCHNON = BECAUSE THE TENDER AFFECTIONS)

of the saints are refreshed (PER PAS IND, ANAPAUO, DRAMATIC PERFECT = HAVE BEEN REFRESHED IN THE PAST WITH THE RESULTS THAT THEY REMAIN REFRESHED)

by thee, (DIA + GEN, SU = THROUGH YOU)

brother.
 

Table 8 8. William Barclay said, "...we learn about Christ by giving to others. It means that we receive from Christ by sharing with others. It means that by emptying ourselves we are filled with Christ. It means that the poorer we make ourselves in giving, the richer we are in the gifts of Christ. It means that to be open handed and generous hearted is the surest way to learn more and more of the wealth of Christ. The man who knows most of Christ is not the intellectual scholar, not even the saint who shuts himself up and spends his days in prayer, but the man who moves in loving generosity among his fellow-men" (The Letters To Timothy, Titus, and Philemon, pg. 319). This truth is reflected in our Scripture above, where Philemon's manifestation of love (Grace) toward others "refreshed them, with the result that they remained refreshed". It is refreshing to all in our lives when we operate by Grace orientation, rather than by Antinomianism or Legalism.  a. Those who hold the office of Pastor or Minister need to be refreshed by the manifestation of Grace from those whom they serve (Romans 15:29-32): Romans 15:29-32 "And I am sure that, when I come unto you, I shall come in the fulness of the blessing of the gospel of Christ.  [30] Now I beseech you, brethren, for the Lord Jesus Christ's sake, and for the love of the Spirit, that ye strive together with me in your prayers to God for me;  [31]  That I may be delivered from them that do not believe in Judaea; and that my service which I have for Jerusalem may be accepted of the saints; [32]  That I may come unto you with joy by the will of God, and may with you be refreshed." b. When believers, even whole local Churches fall into carnality, this is when we DESPERATELY NEED Grace oriented believers who will STEP IN THE GAP and bless those laboring as Pastors (1 Corinthians 16:16-18): 1 Corinthians 16:16-18   That ye submit yourselves unto such, and to every one that helpeth with us, and laboureth. [17]  I am glad of the coming of Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus: for that which was lacking on your part they have supplied. [18]  For they have refreshed my spirit and yours: therefore acknowledge ye them that are such." c. When local Churches move AWAY from operation of the Old Sin Nature and TOWARD Grace orientation, they are able to refresh others (2 Corinthians 7:12-13): 2 Corinthians 7:12-13  "Wherefore, though I wrote unto you, I did it not for his cause that had done the wrong, nor for his cause that suffered wrong, but that our care for you in the sight of God might appear unto you. [13]  Therefore we were comforted in your comfort: yea, and exceedingly the more joyed we for the joy of Titus, because his spirit was refreshed by you all." d. IMPROPERLY oriented believers are spikes of misery to other believers, whereas GRACE ORIENTED believers are anapauo, refreshing to other believers (2 Timothy 1.14-17): 2 Timothy 1:14-17  "That good thing which was committed unto thee keep by the Holy Ghost which dwelleth in us. [15] This thou knowest, that all they which are in Asia be turned away from me; of whom are Phygellus and Hermogenes. [16]  The Lord give mercy unto the house of Onesiphorus; for he oft refreshed me, and was not ashamed of my chain: [17]  But, when he was in Rome, he sought me out very diligently, and found me." e. Philemon was a brother who had discovered Grace orientation. This was evident by the report that others gave Paul about him. He was a blessing, and not a curse to others around him. Thus Paul praised him, reminding him of Grace as he addresses his own concerns about the return of Onesimus to Philemon's household.

Philemon 1:8:

though I might be (PR AC PART, ECHO = I MIGHT KEEP ON HAVING AND HOLDING)

much bold (ACC SG, POLUS + PARRESIA = MUCH CONFIDENCE IN)

in Christ (CHRISTOS, INST = BY MEANS OF CHRIST)

to enjoin thee (PR AC INF, EPITASSO = TO GIVE A REQUEST TO)

that which is convenient, (PR AC PART, ANEKO + HO = TO DO YOUR DUTY. IF PAUL WERE TO ORDER PHILEMON TO DO THE RIGHT THING BY ONESIMUS, THEN PHILEMON WOULDN'T GROW AS A BELIEVER. PAUL COULD ONLY ADVISE HIM AS A TEACHER.)
 

Table 9 9. The dio, or "therefore" that begins verse 8 draws a conclusion. Since Philemon IS a mature believer, and he IS a believer who "walks the talk", a believer who HAD discovered and thereby functions under Grace Orientation, then Paul uses dio. Since all this is true, therefore I can make the following request. Since you are a mature believer in Christ (not perfect, but mature), then I can ask you to aneko ho, "do your duty". a. The carnal believer is unable to "do his duty" in the Plan of God, for the carnal believer is oriented to worldliness and the flesh (1 Corinthians 3:1-4): (1 Corinthians 3:1-4 KJV)  "And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ. {2} I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able. {3} For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men? {4} For while one saith, I am of Paul; and another, I am of Apollos; are ye not carnal?" b. Grace frees us from fear to serve our Creator, but does not relieve us of accountability in our family relationship with Him (2 Corinthians 6:14-18; 2 Corinthians 7:1): (2 Corinthians 6:14-18 KJV)  "Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? {15} And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? {16} And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. {17} Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, {18} And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty." (2 Corinthians 7:1 KJV)  "Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God." c. In fact, as we grow in our Christian maturity we who are strong are called to GREATER ACCOUNTABILITY, bearing the up the weaker believer, and NOT holding them to the same standard that God holds you, the stronger, to (Romans 15:1-3; Romans 14:1-8): (Romans 15:1-3 KJV)  "We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves. {2} Let every one of us please his neighbour for his good to edification. {3} For even Christ pleased not himself; but, as it is written, The reproaches of them that reproached thee fell on me." (Romans 14:1-8 KJV)  "Him that is weak in the faith receive ye, but not to doubtful disputations. {2} For one believeth that he may eat all things: another, who is weak, eateth herbs. {3} Let not him that eateth despise him that eateth not; and let not him which eateth not judge him that eateth: for God hath received him. {4} Who art thou that judgest another man's servant? to his own master he standeth or falleth. Yea, he shall be holden up: for God is able to make him stand. {5} One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind. {6} He that regardeth the day, regardeth it unto the Lord; and he that regardeth not the day, to the Lord he doth not regard it. He that eateth, eateth to the Lord, for he giveth God thanks; and he that eateth not, to the Lord he eateth not, and giveth God thanks. {7} For none of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself. {8} For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord's." d. This does not mean that the Scripturally defined sins of those in the Body of Christ should be ignored, but it does mean that those lifestyle choices that are not clearly defined as sin should not be sticks that we bash one another over the head with. We will all give an account to God (Romans 14:10-13): (Romans 14:10-13 KJV)  "But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. {11} For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God. {12} So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God. {13} Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother's way."

Philemon 1:9:

I rather beseech ( PR AC IND, PARAKALEO + ADJ, MALLON, AORISTIC PR = I ENCOURAGE YOU EVEN MORE, I CALL YOU ALONGSIDE MUCH MORE)

thee, being (EIMI, PR AC PART = ALWAYS BEING)

such an one as Paul the aged, (PAULOS PRESBUTES = PAUL THE ELDER. PAUL SETS ASIDE HIS APOSTOLIC AUTHORITY, AND SPEAKS TO PHILEMON AS A PASTOR)

and now (NUNI DE = AND RIGHT NOW)

also a prisoner of Jesus Christ.

Philemon 1:10:

thee (SU = YOU AND ONLY YOU)

for my son (PERI + GEN, TEKNON = ON BEHALF OF MY SON IN THE LORD)

Onesimus, whom I have begotten (AO AC IND, CONSTATIVE AO GENNAO = SIRED, FATHERED. WHEN WE WITNESS AND BRING ONE TO CHRIST, THEY ARE OUR "CHILDREN IN THE LORD")

in my bonds:
 

Table 10 10. Having praised Philemon for his growth in Christ (evidenced by his "walking the talk"), Paul now sets aside his Apostolic authority and addresses him as a father would for his child. Onesimus, though he wronged Philemon, committed this act while unsaved. He was now the teknon, son in the Lord, of Paul. Philemon also was fathered in the faith (i.e. led to Christ) by Paul.  a. He asks Philemon to recognize the common love that they both share, the "love of God" (Romans 5:5): (Romans 5:5 KJV)  "And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us." b. They both have a common inheritance, eternal life (1 John 1:1-4): (1 John 1:1-4 KJV)  "That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life; {2} (For the life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and show unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us;) {3} That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ. {4} And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full." c. They both share the same family (Ephesians 3:14-15): (Ephesians 3:14-15 KJV)  "For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, {15} Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named," d. What other things do the culturally different Onesimus and Philemon share?

Philemon 1:11:

but now profitable (EUCHRESTOS = TOTALLY USEFUL, PROFITABLE)

to thee and to me: (BECAUSE OF HIS SALVATION, HE WAS PROFITABLE TO THE CHURCH, OF WHICH PHILEMON AND PAUL WERE A PART.)
 

Table 11 11. Onesimus (who's name, in the Greek, means "profitable") was previously unprofitable to Philemon. Paul does not excuse his previous behavior, however, he notes that salvation made the one who was named "profitable", but who was really unprofitable, live up to his name.  a. Onesimus was profitable because he was now a worker in the Church of Christ. He accompanied Thychius in bearing Paul's letter to the church at Colossae (Colossians 4:7-9): (Colossians 4:7-9 KJV)  "All my state shall Tychicus declare unto you, who is a beloved brother, and a faithful minister and fellowservant in the Lord: {8} Whom I have sent unto you for the same purpose, that he might know your estate, and comfort your hearts; {9} With Onesimus, a faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They shall make known unto you all things which are done here." b. Onesimus was profitable because he gave Philemon an opportunity to grow in Grace by forgiving his earlier trespasses. Satan uses an unforgiving attitude within the Church to foster division and destruction (2 Corinthians 2:6-11): (2 Corinthians 2:6-11 KJV)  "Sufficient to such a man is this punishment, which was inflicted of many. {7} So that contrariwise ye ought rather to forgive him, and comfort him, lest perhaps such a one should be swallowed up with overmuch sorrow. {8} Wherefore I beseech you that ye would confirm your love toward him. {9} For to this end also did I write, that I might know the proof of you, whether ye be obedient in all things. {10} To whom ye forgive any thing, I forgive also: for if I forgave any thing, to whom I forgave it, for your sakes forgave I it in the person of Christ; {11} Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices." (Ephesians 4:26-27 KJV)  "Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: {27} Neither give place to the devil." c. When we forget that all believers in Christ are profitable, we lose sight of Grace Orientation. We may not always agree with one another, and we may at times unintentionally or intentionally hurt one another - but when we allow negative attitudes and grudges to remain in our spirits, we lose out on the peace that should be ours through Christ Jesus. (James 5:7-9; Colossians 3:12-15) (James 5:7-9 KJV)  "Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain. {8} Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh. {9} Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: behold, the judge standeth before the door." (Colossians 3:12-15 KJV)  "Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; {13} Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. {14} And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. {15} And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful." d. Too often believers are overly concerned and condemning of others who do not exactly do or behave as they do. Iron sharpens iron (Proverbs 27:17). Examine yourself, prove all things, and those things which are unprofitable discard. But do not throw out all that others say because of one point of disagreement (2 Corinthians 13:5; 1 Thessalonians 5:19-21; Acts 17:10-11): (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV)  "Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?" (1 Thessalonians 5:19-21 KJV)  "Quench not the Spirit. {20} Despise not prophesyings. {21} Prove all things; hold fast that which is good." (Acts 17:10-11 KJV)  "And the brethren immediately sent away Paul and Silas by night unto Berea: who coming thither went into the synagogue of the Jews. {11} These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so."

Philemon 1:12:

again: thou therefore receive him, that is, mine own bowels: (SPLAGCHON = BOWELS, BY EXTENSION, AFFECTIONS, EMOTIONS. PAUL WAS VERY ATTACHED TO ONESIMUS.)

Philemon 1:13:

have retained with me, (PROS + ACC = FOR MYSELF, FACE TO FACE WITH ME, TO STAY WITH ME.)

that in thy stead (HUPER + GEN, SU = ON YOUR BEHALF)

he might have ministered unto me in the bonds of the gospel:
 

Table 12 12. Paul was very attached to Onesimus, but sent him back to Philemon because love seeks to bless others, rather than to seek its own. The clearest indication that Paul was Grace Oriented was that he knew how to exercise love toward others (1 Corinthians 13:4-7): (1 Corinthians 13:4-7 KJV)  "Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, {5} Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; {6} Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; {7} Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things."

Philemon 1:14:

would I do nothing; that thy benefit (AGATHOS, ADJ = INTRINSIC GOOD)

should not be (EIMI, PR AC IND + ME = SHOULD NEVER BE)

as it were of necessity, but willingly.

Philemon 1:15:

for a season, (PROS + ACC SG, HORA = FOR AN HOUR. THE TWO YEARS ONESIMUS WAS GONE SHOULD ONLY BE COUNTED AS AN HOUR WITH PHILEMON, IF HE COULD APPLY GRACE TO THE SITUATION.)

that thou shouldest receive him for ever;

Philemon 1:16:

but above a servant, (HUPER + ACC, DOULOS = BEYOND A SLAVE, MORE THAN A SLAVE)

a brother beloved, specially to me, (MALISTA + EMOI = MOST OF ALL TO ME)

but how much more unto thee, both in the flesh, and in the Lord?

Philemon 1:17:

me therefore a partner, (KOINOIA = PARTNER, FELLOW-SHIPPER, ONE WHO SHARES WITH YOU)

receive (AO MID IMP, PROSLAMBANO = RECEIVE INTO ONE'S PRESENCE)

him as myself. (HOS EME = AS YOU WOULD RECEIVE ME)

Philemon 1:18:

he hath wronged thee, or oweth (PR AC IND OTHELO = OWES A LARGE SUM OF MONEY. ONESIMUS STOLE A GREAT DEAL OF MONEY WHEN HE RAN AWAY FROM PHILEMON. PAUL KNOWS THIS, AND MENTIONS IT.)

thee ought, put that on mine account; (PR AC IMP, ELLOGEO = CHARGE IT ALL TO ME)

Philemon 1:19:

albeit I do not say (PR AC SUBJ, LEGO + ME, AORISTIC PR = I DO NOT HAVE TO MENTION)

to thee how thou owest (PR AC IND, PROSOPHEILO = KEEP ON OWING, CONTINUALLY OWE)

unto me even thine own self besides.

Philemon 1:20:

of thee in the Lord: refresh my bowels (SPLAGCHNON= EMOTIONS, AFFECTIONS)

in the Lord.

Philemon 1:21:

in thy obedience I wrote unto thee, knowing that thou wilt also do more than I say.

Philemon 1:22:

Philemon 1:23:

my fellowprisoner in Christ Jesus;

Philemon 1:24:

my fellowlabourers.

Philemon 1:25:

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