Bible Discussion Thread

In referring to Philemon1:1, was Timothy in prison with Paul?

Philemon was a wealthy Christian, possibly a bishop of the house church that met in his home ( Philemon 1:1-2) in Colossae. This letter is now generally regarded as one of the undisputed works of Paul. It's written to Philemon whose slave Onesimus ran away and became a believer under Paul's teaching. According to this hypothesis, Onesimus fled from the household of Philemon to Rome or Ephesus after he stole from Philemon. He then met Paul and became converted.

Paul wrote to Philemon to encourage him to receive Onesimus back as a brother in the gospel without the severe punishments that would usually be inflicted on runaway slaves (see Philemon 1:17)

The epistle is the 18th book of the New Testament canon and was probably composed in Rome about 61 ce. Paul, writing from prison, expresses affection for the newly converted Onesimus and asks Philemon to receive him as Philemon would receive Paul himself, even though Onesimus may be guilty of previous failings.

Paul's inspired letter to Philemon teaches a great lesson concerning Christian love, which involves concern, care, and compassion for others ( Eph. 4:32).

Out of respect, Paul left the decision with his friend. Why was it important for Philemon to act on his own, without Paul commanding action? past wrongs and focus on things from God's perspective. God used the brief time that Onesimus had been gone to make an eternal difference.

My comment: people are born again, but it takes some time with the Holy Spirit, to effect those inner changes until they appear on the outside. Carry the lambs in prayer; lead the sheep.