Philemon Flashcards
There are several theories to explain why the slave Onesimus was present with Paul when he (Paul) was in prison (in Ephesus? c. 52–55 CE):
(A) Onesimus had run away from his master, had been captured, and just happened to end up in prison with Paul, whom he knew;
(B) Onesimus had “wronged” his master in some way and had visited Paul in order to convince him to “put in a kind word” to Onesimus’s master, Philemon, so that Philemon would not punish him for his wrongdoing (in this view, Paul appeals as an amicus domini, “friend of the master”);
(C) Onesimus had been sent by the household of Philemon (his owner) to tend to Paul’s needs while he was in prison, although he may have stayed longer than the owner expected.
Which of these possibilities do you think most likely and why?
The most likely explanation is (B). Onesimus may have “wronged” his master and sought Paul’s help to intercede on his behalf with Philemon. Paul’s letter suggests a strategic appeal to Philemon, emphasizing Onesimus’s changed status and Paul’s own relationship with Onesimus, which aligns with the idea of Paul acting as an amicus domini, advocating for Onesimus’s favorable treatment.
What kinds of services do you think Onesimus was providing to Paul while he was in prison, and what does Paul say about this?
Onesimus was likely providing personal assistance to Paul, such as helping with his needs and possibly supporting him emotionally and practically. Paul mentions that Onesimus has become “useful” to both him and Philemon, indicating that Onesimus’ services were valued and beneficial during Paul’s imprisonment.
Even though the slave Onesimus is called a “beloved brother” in the letter, is he in charge of his own actions and destiny? Who is portrayed as having the authority to decide what actions the slave should engage in?
Onesimus is not in charge of his own actions and destiny. The authority to decide Onesimus’s actions is ultimately held by Philemon, his master. Paul’s appeal to Philemon highlights that the decision to accept Onesimus as a “beloved brother” and not merely as a slave lies with Philemon, emphasizing the master’s control in this context.
Can you find any tactics of persuasion that Paul uses to try to convince (or pressure) Philemon to let Onesimus return to Paul to continue serving him in the future?
Paul uses several persuasive tactics. He appeals to Philemon’s sense of love and duty, emphasizing their shared faith and his own personal relationship with Onesimus. Paul subtly pressures Philemon by suggesting that it would be an act of Christian generosity and by offering to cover any debts or wrongs Onesimus may have incurred. Paul also expresses confidence in Philemon’s compliance, suggesting he expects Philemon to go beyond his request.
An economic issue: see how Paul requests (demands?) that Philemon offer him hospitality by hosting Paul in his house after he is released from prison: Philemon 22.
Paul requests Philemon to prepare a guest room for him, indicating that he anticipates being released soon and expects to stay with Philemon. This request places an implicit obligation on Philemon to accommodate Paul, thus reinforcing the relational and economic pressures on Philemon to comply with Paul’s requests regarding Onesimus.
