(a) How did Paul reconcile Onesimus with Philemon ? (b) What can we learn about forgiveness from this letter?

Answer Details

(a) How Paul reconciled Onesimus with Philemon (Letter to Philemon)

Onesimus was a slave who had run away from his master Philemon, a wealthy Christian of Colossae in whose house the church met; it appears he had also wronged or robbed him. In Rome, where Paul was a prisoner, Onesimus came into contact with Paul and was converted to Christ, becoming very useful and dear to the apostle, who called him "my son whom I have begotten in my chains."

Paul sent Onesimus back to Philemon with a tactful letter of appeal to bring about reconciliation. In it he:

• Commended Philemon for his love and faith and for refreshing the hearts of the saints, so appealing to his good character.
• Chose to appeal on the basis of love rather than command, though as an apostle he could have ordered him.
• Asked him to receive Onesimus back "no longer as a slave but more than a slave, a beloved brother," now that he was a Christian.
• Requested that Philemon receive him "as you would receive me," identifying himself fully with Onesimus.
• Offered to pay any debt: "If he has wronged you or owes you anything, put that on my account. I, Paul, write this with my own hand, I will repay it."
• Expressed confidence that Philemon would do even more than he asked, and hinted he would visit soon.

By this loving, personal mediation Paul secured the pardon and restoration of Onesimus.

(b) What we learn about forgiveness from this letter

• Genuine forgiveness receives back the offender fully and lovingly, not grudgingly.
• Christian brotherhood transcends social barriers such as master and slave.
• Forgiveness may require someone to intercede and even bear the cost of the wrong (as Paul offered to repay), reflecting Christ who bears our debt.
• A converted life deserves a fresh start; we should be ready to be reconciled and to forgive as we have been forgiven.