PAUL'S APPEAL ON THE BASIS OF THE POWER OF THE GOSPEL (verses 8-16)

1. Paul saw Philemon's acceptance of Philemon as a matter of duty. (8)
2. Nevertheless, Paul appeal was on the basis of love. He would not coerce his friend into acceptance (14).
   • Don't miss the contrast in circumstances between Paul and Philemon. Paul was a prisoner. Philemon was a free man yet the free man and the prisoner were the closest of friends. Onesimus, who was free at the moment, was voluntarily returning to his master at the urging of his imprisoned mentor.
     • Paul's imprisonment was a strong consideration for considering his request.(9)
     • Paul also appealed to him on the basis of his age (9).
   • Onesimus, who was once useless, is now useful because the gospel has made a difference in his life. The power of the gospel in the life of Onesimus had the potential to make a great difference in their relationship.
     • He would become useful. (11)
     • Philemon would have him back for good (15)
     • He would be more than Philemon's slave; he would be Philemon's brother (16).

PAUL'S APPEAL ON THE BASIS OF PARTNERSHIP
(verses 17-25)

1. Paul viewed Philemon as his partner in the business of the kingdom (17).
   • Paul urged his partner to "welcome him as you would welcome me."
   • That was not as easy as it might have sounded. There is the implication that Onesimus might have stolen from Philemon. How could that complication be overcome? There is also the possibility that a lenient response on Philemon would have social implications in the slave owning community. Would it appear that Philemon had lost control of his slaves? Would that create unrest in the slave community and lead to possible social upheaval?
   • Paul proposed to resolve the problem by offering to pay for anything that Onesimus may have owed (19).
2. While he was on subject of debt, Paul gently reminded Philemon, - "you owe me your very self" (19).
3. Because Paul had such great love for Onesimus (10, 12, 16), he pleaded with Philemon to "refresh my heart in Christ" (20).
   • He seemed to hint at emancipation, but he never asked for it (13, 20).
   • J. B. Lightfoot. "The word 'emancipation' seems to tremble on his lips, but he never utters it."
   • "It takes more than love to solve the problem. Love must pay a price." (Warren Wiersbe).

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