Untitled Sermon
sermon
As Paul wrote his four prison Epistles (Eph., Col., Phil., Philem.), he was not alone. Chained to a Roman soldier and maintained at his own expense (Acts 28:30), he was free to receive those who came to him and especially to enjoy the encouragement and assistance of friends and disciples. No doubt individuals came and went as circumstances dictated. Five of this group were known to Philemon and are sent greetings in this letter. They are also mentioned in Colossians 4:10–14
That Paul sent Onesimus back to Philemon is confirmed by Colossians 4:7–9, which indicates that Onesimus accompanied this letter. Paul declares to Philemon that Onesimus is as dear to him as his inmost vitals; sending him back is like tearing out and sending his own heart.
Paul highly values the ministry of Onesimus. In fact, he is inclined to keep him in order that Onesimus might serve him on Philemon’s behalf (v. 13). Paul acknowledges Philemon’s great care for him and assumes that Philemon would consider any service rendered by Onesimus to have been rendered by Philemon himself. Then the apostle mentions his imprisonment for the fourth time. His chains for the sake of the gospel make the help of Onesimus more necessary. But Paul determines
