The Philemon letter is a very personal and private letter written specifically to a disciple concerning the affairs of his household. So why is this letter in the Bible? The letter to Philemon offers a powerful example of forgiveness, reconciliation, and interpersonal relationships amongst Believers in Messiah. Although addressed to a single individual and concerning a private matter – specifically, the fate of Onesimus, a runaway slave and his slave master -  the message of Philemon goes beyond personal boundaries amongst brethren of different statuses or economic classes. In this verse-by-verse study, we will examine the unique requests and expected outcomes of this letter, as well as answer the basic questions of who wrote the letter, to whom it was written, when, and why.

Other Teachings: The God of Israel, The Sons of God, The Name of God

Why is the personal Letter to Philemon included in the Bible, and what does it teach Believers today? In this teaching, Arthur Bailey explores why the deeply personal Letter to Philemon holds such an important place in the Bible. Though written to address a private matter between Philemon and Onesimus, a runaway slave, the letter carries profound spiritual significance that extends far beyond a single household situation.

Paul’s appeal to Philemon provides a powerful example of forgiveness, reconciliation, and restored relationships among Believers in Messiah. Rather than commanding, Paul models humility, love, and intercession, demonstrating how the message of Messiah transforms not only individual hearts but also interpersonal relationships—regardless of social or economic status.

Through this verse-by-verse study, Arthur Bailey examines who wrote the letter, to whom it was written, when and why it was written, and the expected outcome Paul sought. Ultimately, the Letter to Philemon reveals how the Gospel reshapes authority, brotherhood, and responsibility within the community of Believers.