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PHILEMON – LESSON TWO

I. PAUL’S APPEAL OF LOVE (v. 8-25).

 A. The Appeal: Philemon, receive Onesimus back (v.8)

 B. Appeal to Philemon’s love for Paul (v. 8-9; 17, 20, 22).

  1. For Paul as one aged, a prisoner of Christ Jesus and a partner.

  2. For Paul’s joy in the Lord.

  3. For Paul’s physical care – prayer and lodging.

 C. Appeal for Onesimus (v. 10-16; 18-19)

  1. As now a Christian.

  2. As now profitable to Philemon.

  3. As now having Paul’s approval.

  4. As one for whom Paul is willing to pay debts.

 D. Appeal of confidence in Philemon’s love (v. 21).

 E. Final salutations (v. 23-25).

  1. From Epaphras – fellow prisoner in Christ

  2. From Mark – fellow worker

  3. From Aristarchus – fellow worker

  4. From Demas – fellow worker

  5. From Luke – fellow worker

  6. From Paul – grace of Lord be with your spirit – Amen

QUESTIONS:

1. What two characteristics of Paul did he use to appeal to Philemon?

2. How was Onesimus a “child” of Paul?

3. What did Paul want Philemon to do to Onesimus?

4. What use is Onesimus to Paul?

5. What use will Onesimus be to Philemon now that he is a Christian?

6. What did Paul recognize as a power in helping him to be released from prison?

7. In verses 18-22, name the characteristics of love found in I Corinthians 13:4-7 that you see in the relationships between Paul, Philemon and Onesimus.

8. Who was Epaphras?

9. In what did Paul and Philemon share with Mark, Aristarchus, Demas and Luke?

10. Would it have been right or wrong for you to lead other Christians in picketing Philemon’s house against slavery, demanding the release of Onesimus?