EPISTLE OF PAUL TO PHILEMON.
INTRODUCTION.
I.--THE HISTORY OF PHILEMON.
OF PHILEMON, to whom this epistle was addressed, almost nothing more is
known than can be ascertained from the epistle itself. It is short, and
of a private character; but it is a bright and beautiful gem in the
volume of inspiration. From Colossians 4:9, it may be inferred that the
person to whom it was addressed, was an inhabitant of Colosse, since
Onesimus, concerning whom this epistle was written, is there mentioned
as "one of them." See Barnes "Colossians 4:9". Comp. the ingenious remarks
of Paley, Hor. Paul., on Colossians, No. Iv. He is said by Calmet and
Michaelis to have been wealthy; but this cannot be determined with
certainty, though it is not improbable. The only circumstances which
seem to indicate this, are, that Onesimus had been his "servant," from
which it has been inferred, that he was an owner of slaves; and that he
appears to have been accustomed to show hospitality to strangers, or, as
Michaelis expresses it, "travelling Christians." See Philemon 1:22.
But these circumstances are not sufficient to determine
that he was a man of property. There is no evidence, as we shall see,
that he was a slave-holder; and Christians in moderate circumstances
were accustomed to show hospitality to their brethren. Besides, it is
not said in Philemon 1:22 that he was accustomed to show general
hospitality; but Paul merely asks him to provide for him a lodging. It is
probable that he had been accustomed to remain with him when he was
in Colosse. It is quite clear that he had been converted under the
ministry of the apostle himself. This appears from what is said in
Philemon 1:19, "I do not say to thee how thou owest unto me even thine
own self." This cannot be understood otherwise than as implying that he
had been converted under his preaching, unless the apostle, on some
former occasion, had been the means of saving his life, of which
there is no evidence. Indeed, it is manifest, from the general tone of
the epistle, that Philemon had been: converted by the labours of the
author. It is just such a letter as it would be natural and proper to
write on such a supposition; it is not one which the apostle would have
been likely to write to any one who did not sustain such a relation to
him. But where and when he was converted is unknown. It is possible that
Paul may have met with him at Ephesus; but it is much more probable that
he had himself been at Colosse, and that Philemon was one, of his
converts there. See Intro. to the epistle to the Colossians.
It is evident from the epistle, that Paul regarded him as a sincere
Christian; as a man of strict integrity; as one who could be depended on
to do right. Thus (Philemon 1:5-7) he says, that he had heard of his
"love and faith toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all saints;" thus he
confidently asks him to provide for him a lodging when he should come,
(Philemon 1:22;) and thus he expresses the assured belief, that
he would do what was right towards one who had been his servant, who,
having been formerly unfaithful, was now converted, and, in the
estimation of the apostle, was worthy of the confidence and affection of
his former master. In regard to his rank in the Christian church, nothing
whatever is known. Paul calls him (Philemon 1:1) his "fellow-labourer;"
but this appellation is so general, that it determines nothing in regard
to the manner in which he cooperated with him in promoting religion. It
is a term which might be applied to any active Christian, whether a
preacher, an elder, a deacon, or a private member of the church. It would
seem clear, however, that he was not a travelling preacher, for he had a
home in Colosse, (Philemon 1:2,22;) and the presumption is, that he was
an active and benevolent member of the church, who did not sustain any
office. There are many private members of the churches, to whom all that
is said of Philemon in the epistle would apply. Yet there have been
various conjectures in regard to the office which he held. Hoffmann
(Intro. ad Lection. Ep. ad Colossenses, % 18) supposes that he was bishop
of Colosse; Michaelis supposes that he was a deacon in the church; but of
either of these, there is no evidence whatever.
Nothing is known of his age, his profession, or of the time and
circumstances of his death. Neither is it certainly known what effect
this epistle had on him, or whether he again received Onesimus under his
roof. It may be presumed, however, that such a letter, addressed to such
a man, would not fail of its object.
II.--THE OCCASION ON WHICH THE EPISTLE WAS WRITTEN.
This can be learned only from the epistle itself, and there the
circumstances are so marked as to make a mistake impossible.
(1.) Philemon had had a servant of the name of Onesimus. Of the character
of this servant, before Paul became acquainted with him, nothing more is
known than that he had been "unprofitable" to Philemon, (Philemon 1:11,)
and that he had probably done him some wrong, either by taking his
property, or by the fact that he had escaped from him, Philemon 1:18. It
is not necessary to suppose that he was a slave; for all that is implied
of necessity in the word which is employed to designate his condition in
Philemon 1:16, (\~doulov\~,) and all that is stated of him in the epistle,
would be met by the supposition that he was bound to Philemon,
either by his parents or guardians, or that he had bound himself to
render voluntary service. Philemon 1:16.
(2.) For some cause, this servant had fled from his master, and had gone
to Rome. The cause of his escaping is unknown. It may be, that he had
purloined the property of his master, and dreaded detection; or that he
had, by his base conduct in some other way, exposed himself to
punishment; or that he merely desired freedom from oppression; or that he
disregarded the bonds into which he himself, or his parents or guardians,
had entered, and had therefore escaped. Nothing can be inferred about his
condition, or his relation to Philemon, from the fact that he ran away.
It is, perhaps, quite as common for apprentices to run away, as it is
for slaves; and they who enter into voluntary bonds to render service to
another, do not always regard them.
(3.) In some way, when at Rome, this servant had found out the apostle
Paul, and had been converted by his instrumentality. Paul says,
(Philemon 1:10,) that he had "begotten him in his bonds"-- \~en toiv\~
\~desmoiv mou\~;
which seems to imply that Onesimus had come to him, and not that Paul
had searched him out. It does not appear that Paul, when a prisoner at
Rome, was allowed to go at large, (compare Acts 28:30,) though he was
permitted to receive all who came to him. Why Onesimus came to the
apostle is not known. It may have been because he was in want, and Paul
was the only one in Rome whom he had ever seen; or it may have been
because his mind had become distressed on account of sin, and he sought
him out to obtain spiritual counsel. Conjecture on these points is
useless, where there is not even a hint that can serve as a clue to
find out the truth.
(4.) From some cause, equally unknown, Onesimus, when converted, was
desirous of returning to his former master. It is commonly assumed,
that his returning again was at the instigation of the apostle, and
that this furnishes an instance of his belief, that runaway slaves should
be sent back to their masters. But, besides that there is no certain
evidence that he ever was a slave, there is as little proof that he
returned at the instigation of Paul, or that his return was not wholly
voluntary on his part. For the only expression which the apostle uses on
this subject, (Philemon 1:12,) "whom I have sent again"-- \~anepemqa\~
--does not necessarily imply that he even proposed it to him, still
less that he commanded it. It is a word of such general import, that
it would be employed on the supposition that Onesimus desired to
return, and that Paul, who had a strong wish to retain him, to aid him in
the same way that Philemon himself would do if he were with him,
Philemon 1:13, had, on the whole, concluded to part with him, and to send
him again, with a letter, to his friend Philemon. It is just such
language as he would have used of Timothy, Titus, or Epaphroditus, if
employed on an important embassy at the request of the apostle. Comp.
Luke 7:6,10,19; 20:13; Acts 10:5; 15:22; 1 Corinthians 4:17; 2 Corinthians 9:3; Ephesians 6:22; Philippians 2:19
Philippians 2:23; 25; 28; 1 Thessalonians 3:2,5; Titus 3:12, for a similar use of the word
send (\~pempw\~.) There is nothing in the statement which forbids us
to suppose that Onesimus was himself disposed to return to Philemon,
and that Paul "sent" him at his own request. To this, Onesimus might have
been inclined from many causes. He may have repented that he left his
master, and had forsaken the comforts which he had enjoyed under his
roof. It is no uncommon thing for a runaway apprentice, or servant, when
he has seen and felt the misery of being among strangers and in want, to
wish himself well back again in the house of his master. Or he may have
felt that he had wronged his master in some way,
(See Barnes "Philemon 1:18",) and, being now converted, was desirous of
repairing the wrong. Or he may have had friends and kindred in Colosse
whom he was desirous of seeing again. Since any one of these, or of many
other supposable causes, may have induced him to desire to return to
his master, it should not be assumed that Paul sent him against
his will, and thence be inferred that he was in favour of sending
back runaway slaves to their masters AGAINST their will.
There are many points to be proved, which cannot be proved, to make that
a legitimate inference. See Barnes "Philemon 1:12".
(5.) Whatever were the reasons why Onesimus desired to return to
Philemon, it is clear that he was apprehensive of some trouble if he went
back. What those reasons were, it is impossible now to determine with
absolute certainty; but it is not difficult to conjecture what they may
have been, and any of the following will account for his apprehensions
--either
(a.) that he had done his master wrong by the mere act of leaving him,
depriving him of valuable services which he was bound to render; or
(b.) that he may have felt that the mere act of running away had
injured the character of his master, for such an act always implies
that there is something in the dealings of a master which makes it
desirable to leave him; or
(c.) that he had in some way injured him in respect to property, by
taking that which did not belong to him, Philemon 1:18; or
(d.) that he owed his master, and he may have inferred from his leaving
him that he meant to defraud him, Philemon 1:18; or
(e.) that the laws of Phrygia were such, that Onesimus apprehended that
if he returned, even penitent, it would be judged by his master necessary
to punish him, in order to deter others from committing a similar
defence. The laws of Phrygia, it is said, allowed the master to punish a
slave without applying to a magistrate. See Macknight. It should be said
also that the Phrygians were a severe people, (Curtius, Lib. v. c. 1 ;)
and it is not improbable that, from the customs there, Onesimus may have
apprehended harsh treatment if he returned. It is not proper to assume
that any one of these was certainly the reason why he feared to
return, for this cannot be absolutely determined. We should not take it
for granted that he had defrauded his master--for that is not necessarily
implied in what is said in Philemon 1:18, and we should not impute crimes
to men without proof; nor should we take it for granted, that he feared
to be punished as a runaway slave--for that cannot be proved; but
some one or more of these reasons, doubtless, operated to make him
apprehensive, that if he returned he would meet with, at least, a cold
reception.
(6.) To induce his master to receive him kindly again, was the main
object of this courteous and kind epistle. For a view of the
arguments on which he urges this, see the Analysis of the epistle.
The arguments are such, that we should suppose they could not be
resisted; and we may presume, without impropriety, that they had the
desired effect on the mind of Philemon--but of that we have no certain
evidence.
III.--THE TIME AND PLACE OF WAITING THE EPISTLE.
THERE can be no doubt that this letter was written from Rome about the
time when the epistle to the Colossians was written. Comp. Intro. to the
epistle. The circumstances which conduct to this conclusion are such as
the following:
(1.) Paul at the time when it was written was a prisoner. "Paul a
prisoner of Jesus Christ," Philemon 1:1. "Whom I have begotten in my
bonds," Philemon 1:10. Comp. Philemon 1:23, "Epaphras my fellow-prisoner
in Christ Jesus."
(2.) It was written when he had hopes of obtaining his liberty, or when
he had such a prospect of it that he could ask Philemon, with confidence,
to "prepare him a lodging," Philemon 1:22.
(3) Timothy was with him at the time when it was written,
Philemon 1:1, and we know that Paul desired him to come to him to Rome,
when he was a prisoner there, as soon as possible, 2 Timothy 4:9: "Do thy
diligence to come shortly unto me."
(4.) We know that Onesimus was actually sent by Paul to Colosse while he
was a prisoner at Rome, and it would be morally certain that, under the
circumstances of the case, he would send the letter to his master at that
time. No other instance is mentioned in which he sent him to Colosse, and
the evidence is as certain as the nature of the case admits, that that
was the time when the epistle was written. See Colossians 4:9.
(5.) The same persons are mentioned in the salutations in the two
epistles; at least, they are so far the same as to make it probable that
the epistles were written at the same time; for it is not very probable
that the same persons would, in another place, and on another occasion,
have been with the apostle. Thus Aristarchus, Mark, Epaphras, Luke,
and Demas, join in the salutations both to the church at Colosse and to
Philemon. Probably at no other time in the life of Paul were all these
persons with him, than when he was a prisoner at Rome. These
considerations make it clear that the epistle was written while Paul was
a prisoner at Rome, and at about the same time with the epistle to
the Colossians. If so, it was about A.D. 62.
IV.---THE CHARACTER OF THIS EPISTLE.
THIS letter is almost wholly of a private character; and yet there is
scarcely any portion of the New Testament of equal length which is of
more value. It is exquisitely beautiful and delicate. It is a model of
courtesy and politeness. It presents the character of the author in a
most amiable light, and shows what true religion will produce in causing
genuine refinement of thought and language. It is gentle and persuasive,
and yet the argument is one that we should suppose would have been, and
probably was, irresistible. It is very easy to conceive, that the task
which the apostle undertook to perform, was one which it would be
difficult to accomplish--that of reconciling an offended master to a
runaway servant. And yet it is done with so much kindness,
persuasiveness, gentleness, and true affection, that, as the letter was
read, it is easy to imagine that all the hostility of the master was
disarmed, and we can almost see him desiring to embrace him who bore it,
not now as a servant, but as a Christian brother, Philemon 1:16.
"It is impossible," says Doddridge, "to read over this admirable epistle
without being touched with the delicacy of sentiment, and the masterly
address, that appear in every part of it. We see here, in a most striking
light, how perfectly consistent true politeness is--not only with all the
warmth arid sincerity of a friend, but even with the dignity of the
Christian and the Apostle. And if this letter were to be considered in no
other view than as a mere human composition, it must be allowed to be a
master-piece in its kind. As an illustration of this remark, it may not
be improper to compare it with an epistle of Pliny, that seems
to have been written on a similar occasion, (Lib. ix. Let. 21 ;)
which, though penned by one that was reckoned to excel in the epistolary
style, though it has undoubtedly many beauties, yet must be acknowledged
by every impartial reader vastly inferior to this animated composition of
the apostle." As a specimen of the courtesy and politeness which the
Christian ought to practise at all times, as well as furnishing
many valuable lessons on Christian duty, (see the remarks at the close,)
it deserves a place in the volume of inspiration; and a material chasm
would be produced in the instructions which are needful for us, if it
were withdrawn from the sacred canon.
THE EPISTLE OF PAUL TO PHILEMON.
ANALYSIS OF THE EPISTLE.
THE epistle embraces the following subjects:--
I. The salutation, Philemon 1:1-3.
II. A mention of the excellent account which the apostle had heard of
Philemon, and the occasion which he had for thankfulness on his behalf,
Philemon 1:4-7.
(a.) He always remembered him in his prayers, Philemon 1:4.
(b.) He-had heard of his faith and love, and of his kindness towards
those who bore the Christian name, Philemon 1:5.
(c.) He desired that his goodness in making others, in common with him,
partakers of the expression of his faith, might be even more effectual in
securing the proper acknowledgment of it wherever it might be known,
Philemon 1:6.
(d.) He says that he had great joy and consolation from the happiness
which he had conferred on Christians who needed his aid, Philemon 1:7.
III. The main subject of the epistle--the desire that he would
receive his servant Onesimus again, and the arguments to persuade
him to do it, Philemon 1:8-21.
(1.) He places it on the ground of entreaty, not of command. He
might, in virtue of his apostolic office, enjoin many things on him,
and possibly this, yet he chooses to place it wholly on other grounds,
and to make it a matter of personal friendship, Philemon 1:8.
(2.) Particular reasons why he should do it:--
(a.) for love's sake--love to Paul--now an old man, and in
prison on account of their common religion, Philemon 1:9.
(b.) Paul regarded Onesimus as his own son, and asked that he
might be received and treated as such, Philemon 1:10.
(c.) He assures Philemon that, whatever he might have been formerly, he
would now find him to be profitable to himself, Philemon 1:11.
(d.) He assures him that Onesimus was especially dear to him, and that he
would have been very useful to him in his circumstances, but that he did
not think it proper to retain him with him without the consent of
Philemon. Onesimus, therefore, was not sent back as a worthless vagabond,
and Philemon, in receiving him, might be sure that he was receiving one
whom Paul believed was fitted to be eminently useful,
Philemon 1:12-14.
(e.) He suggests to Philemon that probably it was so arranged by divine
Providence, that Onesimus should depart in order that he might receive
him again in a far more tender and endearing relation, not as a servant,
but as a Christian brother, Philemon 1:15,16.
(f.) He appeals to the personal friendship of Philemon, and asks
that if he regarded him as a participator with him in the hopes of
the gospel, or as a fellow-labourer in a common cause, he would receive
him as he would himself, Philemon 1:17.
(g.) He says that he would himself become security for Onesimus
if he owed Philemon anything, or had in any way wronged him,
Philemon 1:18,19.
(h.) He concludes the argument by referring to the happiness which it
would give him if Philemon would receive his former servant again; and
with the expression of his conviction that he would do more than he asked
in the matter, and then asks that, while he showed favour to Onesimus, he
would also prepare a lodging for him, for he hoped soon to be with him,
Philemon 1:20-22. Perhaps by this last suggestion he hoped also to do
much to favour the cause of Onesimus--for Philemon could hardly turn him
away when he expected that Paul himself would soon be with him.
Such an argument would be likely to be effectual in the case. We
do not like to deny the request which a friend makes in a letter,
if we expect soon to see the writer himself. It would be much
more easy to do it if we had no expectations of seeing him very soon.
IV. The epistle closes with affectionate salutations from certain
persons who were with Paul, and who were probably well known
to Philemon, and with the customary benediction, Philemon 1:23-25.
1. Paul, a prisoner of Jesus Christ. A prisoner at Rome in the
cause of Jesus Christ. See Barnes "Ephesians 3:1"
See Barnes "2 Timothy 1:8".
And Timothy our brother. Timothy, it seems, had come to him agreeably
to his request. 2 Timothy 4:9. Paul not unfrequently joins his name with
his own in his epistles. 2 Corinthians 1:1; Philippians 1:1; Colossians 1:1; 1 Thessalonians 1:1; 2 Thessalonians 1:1. As
Timothy was of that region of country, and as he had accompanied Paul in
his travels, he was doubtless acquainted with Philemon.
Unto Philemon our dearly beloved and fellow-labourer. See Intro. & 1.
The word rendered fellow-labourer (\~sunergov\~,) does not determine
what office he held, if he held any, or in what respects he was a
fellow-labourer with Paul. It means a co-worker, or helper, and doubtless
here means that he was a helper or fellow-worker in the great cause to
which Paul had devoted his life, but whether as a preacher, or deacon, or
a private Christian, cannot be ascertained. It is commonly, in the
New Testament, applied to ministers of the gospel, though by no
means exclusively, and in several instances it cannot be determined
whether it denotes ministers of the gospel, or those who furthered
the cause of religion, and co-operated with the apostle in some
other way than preaching. See the following places, which are
the only ones where it occurs in the New Testament, Romans 16:3,9,21;
1 Corinthians 3:9; 2 Corinthians 1:24; 8:23; Philippians 2:25; 4:3; Colossians 4:11; 1 Thessalonians 3:2; Philemon 1:24;
3 John 1:8.
{a} "prisoner" Ephesians 3:1
{b} "fellow-labourer" Philippians 2:25
Verse 2. And to our beloved Apphia. This was a female,
(Gr. \~agaphth\~,) and was probably the wife of Philemon.
And Archippus our fellow-soldier. See Barnes "Colossians 4:17".
It has been supposed that he was a son of Philemon, and this would
appear not to be improbable, as he was one of his family. On the term
"fellow-soldier," See Barnes "Philippians 2:25". It is applied here to one
who was a minister of the gospel, and who is spoken of in connection
with Paul as enlisted under the banners of the Captain of salvation, and
waging a warfare with the wickedness of the world. Comp.
See Barnes "2 Timothy 2:3", See Barnes "2 Timothy 2:4". That Archippus was a
minister of the gospel, is clear from Colossians 4:17.
And to the church in thy house. Either the church that commonly met
in his house, or more probably that was composed of his own family.
Comp. Romans 16:5.
{c} "Archippus" Colossians 4:17
{d} "church" Romans 16:5
Verse 3. Grace to you, and peace, etc. See Barnes "Romans 1:7".
{e} "Grace" Ephesians 1:2
Verse 4. I thank my God. That is, for what I hear of you.
Making mention of thee always in my prayers. See a similar
declaration respecting the church at Ephesus. Ephesians 1:16.
It would appear from this that Paul, in his private devotions, was in
the habit of mentioning churches and individuals by name. It would seem,
also, that though he was a prisoner, yet he somehow found opportunity
for secret devotion. And it would appear further, that though encompassed
with many cares and sorrows, and about to be put on trial for his life,
he did not forget to remember a Christian brother though far distant
from him, and to bear him on his heart before the throne of grace. To
remember with affectionate concern these churches and individuals, as he
did, Paul must have been a man of much prayer.
{f} "thank" Ephesians 1:16
Verse 5. Hearing of thy love and faith. Either by Onesimus, who,
after his conversion, would be disposed to state all that he knew that
was favourable of Philemon, or hearing it by some other persons
who had come from Colosse to Rome. The faith which is mentioned here
refers to the Lord Jesus; the love, to the saints. The order in the
Greek is indeed the same as in our version, but it is not unusual by
synthesis, or uniting two or more things together, to arrange words in
that manner. Thus Matthew 12:22; "The blind and dumb both spake and saw;"
that is, the blind saw, and the dumb spake. The meaning is, that he had
strong faith in the Lord Jesus, and ardent love towards all who were
Christians. See a similar declaration in Colossians 1:4.
Verse 6. That the communication of thy faith. That is, this was a
subject of prayer on the part of the apostle, that the "communication
of his faith" might receive from all the proper acknowledgment
of the good which he did in the Christian cause. The phrase translated
"communication of thy faith," means the making of thy faith common
to others; that is, enabling others to partake of the fruits of it, to
wit, by good deeds. On the meaning of the word here rendered
"communication," (\~koinwnia\~, koinonia,) See Barnes "Ephesians 3:9".
Comp. Philippians 2:1; See Barnes " :". Calvin has well expressed the
sense of this passage. "It is to be observed that the apostle here does
not proceed in the commendation of Philemon, but rather expresses what
he desires for him from the Lord. These words are connected with those
in which he says that he remembered him in his prayers. What, therefore,
did he desire for Philemon? That his faith expressing itself by good
fruits, might be shown to be true and not vain. For he calls that the
communication of his faith when it does not remain inoperative within,
but bears itself forth to benefit men by its proper effects. For
although faith has its proper seat in the heart, yet it communicates
itself to men by good works." The meaning is, that he desired
that Philemon would so make common the proper fruits of faith by
his good deeds towards others, that all might acknowledge it to be
genuine and efficacious.
May become effectual. Gr., "May be energetic" (\~energhv\~;) may become
operative, active, effective.
By the acknowledging. That is, so as to secure from others the
proper recognition of the existence of faith in your heart. In other
words, so that others may see that you are truly pious, and understand
to what extent you have faith.
Of every good thing which is in you. Of every good principle, and of
every benevolent trait, which is in your character. That is, the proper
outward expression of his faith in Christ, by doing good to others,
would be a development of the benevolence which existed in his heart.
In Christ Jesus. Or "towards (\~eiv\~) Christ Jesus." The
goodness in his heart had respect to the Lord Jesus as its proper object,
but would be made manifest by his kindness to men. The truth which is
taught in this passage, therefore, is, that when faith exists in the
heart, it is very desirable that it should impart its proper fruits
towards others in such a way that all may see that it is operative,
and may recognize its power; or in other words, it is desirable
that when true religion exists it should be fairly developed, that
its possessor may be acknowledged to be under its influence. We
should wish that he may have all the credit and honour which the
goodness of his heart is entitled to. Paul supposed that a case
had now occurred in which an opportunity was furnished to Philemon to
show the world how much he was governed by the faith of the gospel.
{a} "the communication" Philippians 1:9-11
{b} "effectual" James 2:14,17
{c} "every good" Philippians 4:8
Verse 7. For we have great joy and consolation in thy love. In thy
love towards Christians. The word here rendered joy
(\~carin\~,) properly means grace, A large number of manuscripts,
however, instead of this word, have \~caran\~, charan--joy.
See Wetstein. This reading has been adopted by Griesbach, Tittman, and
Hahn.
Because the bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee, brother.
For your kindness to them. The word bowels here probably means
minds, hearts, for it is used in the Scriptures to denote the
affections. The sense is, that the kindness which he had shown to
Christians had done much to make them happy. On the word refreshed,
see 2 Corinthians 7:13; 2 Timothy 1:16.
{d} "refreshed by thee" 2 Corinthians 7:13; 2 Timothy 1:16
Verse 8. Wherefore, though I might be much bold in Christ. Though I
might have much boldness as an apostle of Christ. He means that he was
invested with authority by the Lord Jesus, and would have a right,
as an apostle, to enjoin what ought to be done in the case which
he is about to lay before him. Comp. 1 Thessalonians 2:6,7.
To enjoin thee that which is convenient. To command what is proper
to be done. The word convenient here, (\~to anhkon\~,) means that which
would be fit or proper in the case. Comp. See Barnes "Ephesians 5:4". The
apostle implies here that what he was about to ask, was proper to
be done in the circumstances, but he does not put it on that ground,
but rather asks it as a personal favour. It is usually not best to
command a thing to be done, if we can as well secure it by asking
it as a favour. Comp. Daniel 1:8,11,12.
{e} "though" 1 Thessalonians 2:6
Verse 9. Yet for love's sake. For the love which you bear me, and for
the common cause.
I rather beseech thee. Rather than command thee.
Being such an one as Paul the aged. \~presbuthv\~--an old man.
We have no means of ascertaining the exact age of Paul at this
time, and I do not recollect that he ever alludes to his age, though
he often does to his infirmities, in any place except here.
Doddridge supposes that at the time when Stephen was stoned, when
he is called "a young man," (\~neaniav\~, Acts 7:58,) he was
twenty-four years of age, in which case he would now have been about
fifty-three. Chrysostom supposes that he may have been about
thirty-five years old at the time of his conversion, which would
have made him about sixty-three at this time. The difficulty
of determining, with any degree of accuracy, the age of the apostle
at this time, arises from the indefinite nature of the word used
by Luke, Acts 7:58, and rendered a young man. That word, like the
corresponding word, \~neaniskov\~, neaniskos, was applied to
when in the rigour of manhood up to the age of forty years, Robinson Lex.
Phavorinus says a man is called \~neaniskov\~, neaniskos, a young man,
till he is twenty-eight; and \~presbuthv\~, presbytes, from forty-nine
till he is fifty-six. Varro says that a man is young (juvenis) till
he is forty-five, and aged at sixty. Whitby. These periods of time,
however, are very indefinite; but it will accord well with the usual
meaning of the words to suppose that Paul was in the neighbourhood of
thirty when he was converted, and that he was now not far from sixty. We
are to remember, also, that the constitution of Paul may have been much
broken by his labours, his perils, and his trials. Not advanced probably
to the usual limit of human life, he may have had all the characteristics
of a very aged man. Comp. the Note of Benson. The argument here
is that we feel that it is proper, as far as we can, to grant the
request of an old man. Paul thus felt that it was reasonable to
suppose that Philemon would not refuse to gratify the wishes of an
aged servant of Christ, who had spent the rigour of his life in the
service of their common Master. It should be a very strong case
when we refuse to gratify the wishes of an aged Christian in anything,
especially if he has rendered important services to the church
and the world.
And now also a prisoner of Jesus Christ. In the cause of Jesus
Christ; or a prisoner for endeavouring to make him known to the world.
Comp. See Barnes "Ephesians 3:1" See Barnes "Ephesians 4:1";
See Barnes "Ephesians 6:20". See Barnes "Colossians 4:10". The argument here
is, that it might be presumed that Philemon would not refuse the request
of one who was suffering in prison on account of their common religion.
For such a prisoner we should be ready to do all that we can to mitigate
the sorrows of his confinement, and to make his condition comfortable.
Verse 10. I beseech thee for my son Onesimus. That is, my son in the
gospel; one to whom I sustain the relation of a spiritual father.
Comp. See Barnes "1 Timothy 1:2". The address and tact of Paul here are
worthy of particular observation. Any other mode of bringing the
case before the mind of Philemon might have repelled him; If he
had simply said, "I beseech thee for Onesimus;" or, "I beseech thee
for thy servant Onesimus," he would at once have reverted to his
former conduct, and remembered all his ingratitude and disobedience.
But the phrase "my son," makes the way easy for the
mention of his name, for he had already found the way to his heart
before his eye lighted on his name, by the mention of the relation
which he sustained to himself. Who could refuse to such a man
as Paul-- a laborious, servant of Christ--an aged man, exhausted
with his many sufferings and toils--and a prisoner--a request which
he made for one whom he regarded as his son? It may be added,
that the delicate address of the apostle in introducing the subject,
is better seen in the original than in our translation. In the original,
the name Onesimus is reserved to come in last in the sentence. The order
of the Greek is this: "I entreat thee concerning a son of mine, whom I
have begotten in my bonds--Onesimus." Here the name is not suggested,
until he had mentioned that he sustained to him the relation of a son,
and also till he had added that his conversion was the fruit of his
labours while he was a prisoner. Then, when the name of Onesimus is
mentioned, it would occur to Philemon not primarily as the name of an
ungrateful and disobedient servant, but as the interesting case of one
converted by the labours of his own friend in prison. Was there ever more
delicacy evinced in preparing the way for disarming one of prejudice,
and carrying an appeal to his heart?
Whom I have begotten in my bonds. Who has been converted by my
efforts while I have been a prisoner. On the phrase "whom I have
begotten," see 1 Corinthians 4:15. Nothing is said of the way in which he had
become acquainted with Onesimus, or why he had put himself under the
teaching of Paul. See the Intro., 2. (3.)
{f} "Onesimus" Colossians 4:9
{g} "begotten" 1 Corinthians 4:15
Verse 11. Which in time past was to thee unprofitable. Either because
he was indolent; because he had wronged him, (comp.
See Barnes "Philemon 1:18";) or because he had run away from him. It is
possible that there may be an allusion here to the meaning of the
name Onesimus, which denotes profitable, (from \~oninhmi\~,
fut. \~onhsw\~, to be useful, to be profitable,
to help;) and that Paul means to say that he had hitherto
not well answered to the meaning of his own name, but that now
he would be found to do so.
But now profitable to thee. The Greek here is \~eucrhston\~,
euchreston, but the meaning is about the same as that of the word
Onesimus. It denotes very useful. In 2 Timothy 2:21, it is rendered,
meet for use; in 2 Timothy 4:11, and here, profitable. It does not
elsewhere occur in the New Testament.
And to me. Paul had doubtless found him useful to him as a
Christian brother in his bonds, and it is easy to conceive that, in
his circumstances, he would greatly desire to retain him with him.
{a} "in time past" 1 Peter 2:10
Verse 12. Whom I have sent again. That is, to Philemon. This was,
doubtless, at his own request, for
(1.) there is not the slightest evidence that he compelled him, or
even urged him to go. The language is just such as would have been
used on the supposition either that he requested him to go and bear a
letter to Colosse, or that Onesimus desired to go, and that Paul sent
him agreeably to his request. Comp. Philippians 2:25, "Yet I suppose it
necessary to send to you Epaphroditus my brother, and companion in
labour," etc. Colossians 4:7,8, "All my state shall Tychicus declare unto
you, who is a beloved brother, and a faithful minister and fellow-servant
in the Lord: whom I have sent unto you for the same purpose, that he
might know your estate," etc. But Epaphroditus and Tychicus were not sent
against their own wills--nor is there any more reason to think that
Onesimus was. See Intro., & 2. (4.)
(2.) Paul had no power to send Onesimus back to his master unless
he chose to go. He had no civil authority; he had no guard to
accompany him; he could entrust him to no sheriff to convey him
from place to place, and he had no means of controlling him, if he
chose to go to any other place than Colosse. He could indeed have
sent him away from himself; he could have told him to go to
Colosse, but there his power ended. Onesimus then could have
gone where he pleased. But there is no evidence that Paul even
told him to go to Colosse against his own inclination, or that he
would have sent him away at all unless he had himself requested
it.
(3.) There may have been many reasons why Onesimus desired to return to
Colosse, and no one can prove that he did not express that desire to
Paul, and that his "sending" him was not in consequence of such a
request. He may have had friends and relatives there; or, being now
converted, he may have been sensible that he had wronged his former
master, and that he ought to return and repair the wrong; or he may have
been poor, and a stranger in Rome, and may have been greatly disappointed
in what he had expected to find there when he left Philemon, and may
have desired to return to the comparative comforts of his former
condition.
(4.) It may be added, therefore,
(a.) that this passage should not be adduced to prove that we ought
to send back runaway slaves to their former masters against their own
consent; or to justify the laws which require magistrates to do it; or
to show that they who have escaped should be arrested and forcibly
detained; or to justify any sort of influence over a runaway slave
to induce him to return to his former master. There is not the least
evidence that any of these things occurred in the case before us; and if
this instance is ever appealed to, it should be to justify what
Paul did --AND NOTHING ELSE.
(b.) The passage shows that it is right to aid a servant of
any kind to return to his master if he desires it. It is right to
give him a "letter,"and to plead earnestly for his favourable reception
if he has in any way wronged his master--for Paul did this. On the same
principle, it would be right to give him pecuniary assistance to enable
him to return--for there may be cases where one who has fled from
servitude might wish to return. There may be instances where one has had
a kind master, with whom he would feel that on the whole he could be
more happy than in his present circumstances. Such cases, however, are
exceedingly rare. Or there may be instances where one may have relatives
that are in the neighbourhood or in the family of his former master, and
the desire to be with them may be so strong that on the whole he
would choose to be a servant as he was before, rather than to remain as
he is now. In all such cases it is right to render aid--for the example
of the apostle Paul goes to sustain this. But it goes no further. So far
as appears, he neither advised Onesimus to return, nor did he
compel him; nor did he say one word to influence him to do it; nor
did he mean or expect that he would be a slave when he should have been
received again by his master. See Barnes "Philemon 1:16".
Thou therefore receive him, that is, mine own bowels. There is great
delicacy also in this expression. If he had merely said, "receive
him," Philemon might have thought only of him as he formerly was.
Paul, therefore, adds, that is, mine own bowels"---"one whom I so
tenderly love that he seems to carry my heart with him wherever he goes."
Doddridge.
Verse 13. Whom I would have retained with me, that in thy stead.
"That he might render me the service which I know you would if you
were here." The Greek is, "for thee;" (\~uper sou\~;) that is, what
he should do for Paul might be regarded as done by Philemon himself.
He might have ministered unto me. He might have rendered me
assistance, (\~diakonh\~;) to wit, in such a way as one who was in bonds
would need.
{b} "that in thy stead" 1 Corinthians 16:17; Philippians 2:30
Verse 14. But without thy mind would I do nothing. Nothing in the
matter referred to. He would not retain Onesimus in his service,
much as he needed his assistance, without the cordial consent of
Philemon. He would not give him occasion for hard feeling or
complaint, as if Paul had induced him to leave his master, or
as if he persuaded him to remain with him when he wished to return--
or as if he kept him away from him when he owed him or had
wronged him. All that is said here is entirely consistent with the
supposition that Onesimus was disposed to return to his master,
and with the supposition that Paul did not compel or urge him to
do it. For it is probable that if Onesimus had proposed to return,
it would have been easy for Paul to have retained him with him.
He might have represented his own want of a friend. He might
have appealed to his gratitude on account of his efforts for his
conversion. He might have shown him that he was under no moral
obligation to go back. He might have refused to give him this
letter, and might have so represented to him the dangers of the
way, and the probability of a harsh reception, as effectually to
have dissuaded him from such a purpose. But, in that case, it is
clear that this might have caused hard feeling in the bosom of
Philemon, and rather than do that he preferred to let him return
to his master, and to plead for him that he might have a kind
reception. It is, therefore, by no means necessary to suppose that
Paul felt that Onesimus was under obligation to return, or that he
was disposed to compel him, or that Onesimus was not inclined to
return voluntarily; but all the circumstances of the case are met
by the supposition that, if Paul retained him, Philemon might
conceive that he had injured him. Suppose, as seems to have been
the case, that Onesimus "owed" Philemon, (Philemon 1:18,) and then
suppose that Paul had chosen to retain him with himself, and had
dissuaded him from returning to him, would not Philemon have
had reason to complain of it? There was, therefore, on every account,
great propriety in his saying that he did not wish to use
any influence over him to retain him with him when he purposed
to return to Colosse, and that he felt that it would be wrong for
him to keep him, much as he needed him, without the consent of
Philemon. Nor is it necessary, by what is said here, to suppose
that Onesimus was a slave, and that Paul believed that Philemon
had a right to him and to his services as such. All that he says
here would be met by the supposition that he was a hired servant,
and would be in fact equally proper even on the supposition that
he was an apprentice. In either case, he would feel that he gave
just ground of complaint on the part of Philemon if, when Onesimus
desired to return, he used any influence to dissuade him from
it, and to retain him with himself. It would have been a violation
of the rule requiring us to do to others as we would wish them to
do unto us, and Paul therefore felt unwilling, much as he needed
the services of Onesimus, to make use of any influence to retain him
with him without the consent of his master.
That thy benefit. The favour which I might receive from thee by
having the services of Onesimus. If Onesimus should remain with him and
assist him, he would feel that the benefit which would be conferred by
his services would be in fact bestowed by Philemon, for he had a
right to the service of Onesimus, and while Paul enjoyed it, he
would be deprived of it. The word rendered benefit here
\~agayon\~ --means good, and the sense is, "the good which you
would do me;" to wit, by the service of Onesimus.
Should not be as it were of necessity. As it would be if Paul should
detain Onesimus with him without affording Philemon an opportunity of
expressing his assent. Paul would even then have felt that he was in fact
receiving a "good" at the expense of Philemon, but it would not
be a voluntary favour on his part.
But willingly. As it would be if he had given his consent that
Onesimus should remain with him.
{c} "willingly" 2 Corinthians 9:7
Verse 15. For perhaps he therefore departed for a season. Perhaps
on this account, or for this reason \~dia touto\~ he left you for a
little time. Greek, "for an hour"--\~prov wran\~. The meaning is, that
it was possible that this was permitted, in the providence of God,
in order that Onesimus might be brought under the influence of
the gospel, and be far more serviceable to Philemon as a Christian,
than he could have been in his former relation to him. What appeared to
Philemon, therefore, to be a calamity, and what seemed to him to be
wrong on the part of Onesimus, might have been permitted to occur in
order that he might receive a higher benefit. Such things are not
uncommon in human affairs.
That thou shouldest receive him for ever. That is, in the higher
relation of a Christian friend and brother; that he might be united to
thee in eternal affection; that he might not only be with thee in a far
more endearing relation during the present life than he was before, but
in the bonds of love in a world that shall never end.
{a} "perhaps" Genesis 14:5-8
Verse 16. Not now as a servant. The adverb rendered "not now,"
(\~ouketi\~,) means no more, no further, no longer. It implies that he
had been before in this condition, but was not to be now. Comp.
Matthew 19:6, "They are no more twain." They were once so, but
they are not to be regarded as such now. Matthew 22:46, "Neither
durst any man from that day forth, ask him any more questions."
They once did it, but now they did not dare to do it. Luke 15:19,
"And am no more worthy to be called thy son," though I once
was. John 6:66, "And walked no more with him," though they
once did. See also John 11:54; 14:19; 17:11; Acts 8:39; Galatians 4:7;
Ephesians 2:19. This passage, then, proves that he had been
before a servant--\~doulov\~--doulos. But still it is not certain what
kind of a servant he was. The word does not necessarily mean
slave, nor can it be proved from this passage, or from any other
part of the epistle, that he was at any time a slave.
See Barnes "Ephesians 6:5". See Barnes "1 Timothy 6:1". The word denotes
servant of any kind, and it should never be assumed that those to
whom it was applied were slaves. It is true that slavery existed in the
heathen nations when the gospel was first preached, and it is doubtless
true that many slaves were converted, See Barnes "1 Corinthians 7:21";
but the mere use of the word does not necessarily prove that he to
whom it is applied was a slave. If Onesimus were a slave, there is reason
to think that he was of a most respectable character, comp.
See Barnes "Colossians 4:9"; and indeed all that is implied in the use
of the term here, and all that is said of him, would be met by the
supposition that he was a voluntary servant, and that he had been in
fact intrusted with important business by Philemon. It would seem from
Philemon 1:18, ("or oweth thee aught,") that he was in a condition
which made it possible for him to hold property, or at least to be
intrusted.
But above a servant, a brother beloved. Christian brother. Comp.
Notes, 1 Timothy 6:2. He was especially dear to Paul himself as a
Christian, and he trusted that he would be so to Philemon.
Specially to me. That is, I feel a special or particular interest in
him, and affection for him. This he felt not only on account of the
traits of character which he had evinced since his conversion, but
because he had been converted under his instrumentality when he was a
prisoner. A convert made in such circumstances would be particularly dear
to one.
But how much more unto thee. Why, it may be asked, would he then be
particularly dear to Philemon? I answer, because
(1.) of the former relation which he sustained to him--a member of his
own family, and bound to him by strong ties;
(2.) because he would receive him as a penitent, and would have joy in
his returning from the error of his ways;
(3.) because he might expect him to remain long with him, and be of
advantage to him as a Christian brother; and
(4.) because he had voluntarily returned, and thus shown that
he felt a strong attachment to his former master.
In the flesh. This phrase is properly used in reference to any
relation which may exist pertaining to the present world, as
contradistinguished from that which is formed primarily by religion,
and which would be expressed by the subjoined phrase, "in the Lord." It
might, in itself, refer to any natural relation of blood, or to any
formed in business, or to any constituted by mere friendship, or to
family alliance, or to any relation having its origin in voluntary or
involuntary servitude. It is not necessary to suppose, in order to
meet the full force of the expression, either that Onesimus had been a
slave, or that he would continue to be regarded as such. Whatever
relation of the kind, referred to above, may have existed between
him and Philemon, would be appropriately denoted by this phrase.
The new and more interesting relation which they were now to
sustain to each other, which was formed by religion, is expressed
by the phrase "in the Lord." In both these, Paul hoped that
Onesimus would manifest the appropriate spirit of a Christian, and
be worthy of his entire confidence.
In the Lord. As a Christian. He will be greatly endeared to your
heart as a consistent and worthy follower of the Lord Jesus.
On this important verse, then, in relation to the use which is so
often made of this epistle by the advocates of slavery, to show that
Paul sanctioned it, and that it is a duty to send back those who
have escaped from their masters that they may again be held in
bondage, we may remark,
(1.) there is no certain evidence that Onesimus was ever a slave at all.
All the proof that he was, is to be found in the word
\~doulov\~ --doulos--in this verse. But, as we have seen, the mere
use of this word by no means proves that. All that is necessarily
implied by it is that he was in some way the servant of Philemon--
whether hired or bought cannot be shown.
(2.) At all events, even supposing that he had been a slave, Paul
did not mean that he should return as such, or to be regarded as
such. He meant, whatever may have been his former relation,
and whatever subsequent relation he might sustain, that he
should be regarded as a beloved Christian brother; that the leading
conception in regard to him should be that he was a fellow-heir of
salvation, a member of the same redeemed church, a candidate for
the same heaven.
(3.) Paul did not send him back in order that he might be a slave, or
with a view that the shackles of servitude should be riveted on him.
There is not the slightest evidence that he forced him to return, or
that he advised him to do it, or even that he expressed a wish
that he would; and when he did send him, it was not as a slave, but
as a beloved brother in the Lord. It cannot be shown that the motive for
sending him back was, in the slightest degree, that he should be a slave.
No such thing is intimated, nor is any such thing necessary to be
supposed in order to a fair interpretation of the passage.
(4.) It is clear that, even if Onesimus had been a slave before, it
would have been contrary to the wishes of Paul that Philemon should now
hold him as such. Paul wished him to regard him "not as a servant,"
but as a "beloved brother." If Philemon complied with his wishes,
Onesimus was never afterwards regarded or treated as a slave. If he
did so regard or treat him, it was contrary to the expressed
intention of the apostle, and it is certain that he could never have
shown this letter in justification of it. It cannot fail to strike
any one that if Philemon followed the spirit of this epistle, he would
not consider Onesimus to be a slave; but if he sustained the relation of
a servant at all, it would be as a voluntary member of his household,
where, in all respects, he would be regarded and treated, not as a
"chattel, or a "thing," but as a Christian brother.
(5.) This passage, therefore, may be regarded as full proof that it is
not right to send a slave back, against his will, to his former
master, to be a slave. It is right to help one if he wishes to go
back; to give him a letter to his master, as Paul did to Onesimus;
to furnish him money to help him on his journey if he desires to return;
and to commend him as a Christian brother, if he is such; but beyond
that, the example of the apostle Paul does not go. It is perfectly
clear that he would not have sent him back to be regarded and
treated as a slave; but being able to commend him as a Christian,
he was willing to do it, and he expected that he would be treated,
not as a slave, but as a Christian. The case before us does not go at all
to prove that Paul would have ever sent him back to be a chattel
or a thing. If, with his own consent, and by his own wish, we
can send a slave back ta his master to be treated as a Christian
and as a man, the example of Paul may show that it would be right to
do it, but it does not go beyond that.
(6.) In confirmation of this, and as a guide in duty now, it may be
observed, that Paul had been educated as a Hebrew; that he was
thoroughly imbued with the doctrines of the Old Testament; and that one
of the elementary principles of that system of religion was, that a
runaway slave was in no circumstances to be returned by force to his
former master. "Thou shalt NOT deliver unto his master the servant
that is escaped from his master unto thee," Deuteronomy 23:15. It
cannot be supposed that, trained as he was in the principles of the
Hebrew religion--of which this was a positive and unrepealed law, and
imbued with the benevolent spirit of the gospel--a system so
hostile to oppression, the apostle Paul would have constrained a
slave who had escaped from bondage to return to servitude against
his will.
(7.) It may be added, that if the principles here acted on by Paul were
carried out, slavery would speedily cease in the world. Very soon would
it come to an end if masters were to regard those whom they hold, "not
as slaves," but as beloved Christian brothers; not as chattels
and things, but as the redeemed children of God. Thus regarding them,
they would no longer feel that they might chain them, and task them, and
sell them as property. They would feel that, as Christians and as men,
they were on a level with themselves; and that they who were made in the
image of God, and who had been redeemed with the blood of his Son,
ought to be FREE.
{b} "brother beloved" Matthew 18:8; 1 Timothy 6:2
{c} "and in the Lord" Colossians 3:22
Verse 17. If thou count me therefore a partner. The word rendered
partner, (\~koinwnov\~,) means a partaker, a companion. The idea in the
word is that of having something in common (\~koinov\~) with any one
--as common principles; common attachments; a common interest
in an enterprise; common hopes. It may be applied to those who
hold the same principles of religion, and who have the same hope
of heaven, the same views of things, etc. Here the meaning is,
that if Philemon regarded Paul as sharing with him in the principles and
hopes of religion, or as a brother in the gospel, so that he would
receive him, he ought to receive Onesimus in the same way. He was
actuated by the same principles, and had the same hopes, and had a
claim to be received as a Christian brother. His receiving Onesimus
would be interpreted by Paul as proof that he regarded him as a partaker
of the hopes of the gospel, and as a companion and friend. For a plea in
behalf of another, strongly resembling this, see Horace, Epis. Lib. 1,
Ep. 9.
{a} "partner" 2 Corinthians 8:23
Verse 18. If he hath wronged thee. Either by escaping from you, or by
failing to perform what he had agreed to, or by unfaithfulness when
he was with you as a servant, or by taking your property when he
went away. Any of these methods would meet all that is said
here, and it is impossible to determine in which of them he had
done Philemon wrong. It may be observed, however, that the
apostle evinces much delicacy in this matter. He does not say
that he had wronged him, but he makes a supposition
that he might have done it. Doubtless, Philemon would suppose that he
had done it, even if he had done no more than to escape from him,
and, whatever Paul's views of that might be, he says that, even if it
were so, he would wish him to set that over to his account. He took
the blame on himself, and asked Philemon not to remember it against
Onesimus.
Or oweth thee ought. It appears from this, that Onesimus, whatever
may have been his former condition, was capable of holding property, and
of contracting debts. It is possible that he might have borrowed money
of Philemon, or he may have been regarded as a tenant, and may not have
paid the rent of his farm, or the apostle may mean that he had owed him
service which he had not performed. Conjecture is useless as to the way
in which the debt had been contracted.
Put that on mine account. Reckon, or impute that to me--\~emoi ellogei\~.
This word occurs nowhere else in the New Testament, except in
Romans 5:13, where it is rendered imputed.
See Barnes "Romans 5:13". It means to reckon; to put to one's account,
to wit, what properly belongs to him, or what he assumes. It never
implies that that is to be charged on one which does not properly belong
to him, either as his own act, or as that which he has assumed. In this
case, it would have been manifestly unjust for Philemon to charge the
wrong which Onesimus had done, or what he owed him, to the
apostle Paul without his consent; and it cannot be inferred from
what Paul says here that it would have been right to do so. The
steps in the case were these:
(1.) Onesimus, not Paul, had done the wrong.
(2.) Paul was not guilty of it, or blameworthy for it, and never in any
way, or by any process, could be made to be, or conceived to be. It
would be true for ever that Onesimus and not he had done the wrong.
(3.) Paul assumed the debt and the wrong to himself. He was willing,
by putting himself in the place of Onesimus, to bear the consequences,
and to have Onesimus treated as if he had not done it. When he had
voluntarily assumed it, it was right to treat him as if he had done so;
that is, to hold him responsible. A man may assume a debt if he
pleases, and then he may be held answerable for it.
(4.) If he had not assumed this himself, it never could have been
right for Philemon to charge it on him. No possible supposition could
make it right. No agency which he had in the conversion of Onesimus; no
friendship which he had for him; no favour which he had shown him, could
make it right. The consent, the concurrence, on the part of Paul,
was absolutely necessary in order that he should be in any way
responsible for what Onesimus had done.
(5.) The same principle prevails in imputation everywhere.
(a.) What we have done is chargeable upon us.
(b.) If we have not done a thing, or have not assumed it by a voluntary
act, it is not right to charge it upon us.
(c.) God reckons things as they are. The Saviour voluntarily
assumed the place of man, and God reckoned, or considered it so.
He did not hold him guilty or blameworthy in the case; but as he had
voluntarily taken the place of the sinner, he was treated as if he
had been a sinner. God, in like manner, does not charge on man
crimes of which he is not guilty. He does not hold him to be
blameworthy, or ill-deserving for the sin of Adam, or any other sin but
his own. He reckons things as they are. Adam sinned, and he
alone was held to be blameworthy or ill-deserving for the act. By
a divine constitution comp. See Barnes "Romans 5:12", seq., he had
appointed that if he sinned, the consequences or results should pass
over and terminate on his posterity--as the consequences of the
sin of the drunkard pass over and terminate on his sons, and God
reckons this to be so--and treats the race accordingly. He never
reckons those to be guilty who are not guilty; or those to be
ill-deserving who are not ill-deserving; nor does he punish one for
what another has done. When Paul, therefore, voluntarily assumed
a debt or an obligation, what he did should not be urged as an argument
to prove that it would be right for God to charge on all the posterity
of Adam the sin of their first father, or to hold them guilty for an
offence committed ages before they had an existence. The case should be
adduced to demonstrate one point only--that when a man assumes a
debt, or voluntarily takes a wrong done upon himself, it is right to
hold him responsible for it.
Verse 19. I Paul have written it with mine own hand. It has been
inferred from this, that Paul wrote this entire epistle with his own
hand, though this was contrary to his usual practice. Comp.
See Barnes "Romans 16:22"; See Barnes "1 Corinthians 16:21";
See Barnes "Galatians 6:11". He undoubtedly meant to refer to this as a
mark of special favour towards Philemon, and as furnishing security that
he would certainly be bound for what he had promised.
I will repay it. I will be security for it. It is not probable that
Paul supposed that Philemon would rigidly exact it from him, but if he
did, he would feel himself bound to pay it.
Albeit I do not say to thee how thou owest unto me thine own self
besides. Paul had doubtless been the means of the conversion
of Philemon, and whatever hope he cherished of eternal life, was
to be traced to his instrumentality. Paul says that this was
equivalent to his owing himself to him. It is very life--his eternal
welfare---was to be traced to his labours. What he asked now of
him was a small matter compared with this, and he seems to have
supposed--what was probably true--that for this consideration,
Philemon would not think of exacting of him what he had voluntarily
obligated himself to obey.
{*} "do not say" "not to say"
Verse 20. Yea, brother, let me have joy of thee in the Lord.
"By showing me this favour in receiving, my friend and brother as I
request." The phrase, "in the Lord," here seems to mean that, if this
request was granted, he would recognise the hand of the Lord in it, and
would receive it as a favour from him.
Refresh my bowels in the Lord. The bowels, in the Scriptures, are
uniformly spoken of as the seat of the affections--meaning commonly the
upper viscera, embracing the heart and the lungs.
See Barnes "Isaiah 16:11". The reason is, that in any deep emotion this
part of our frame is peculiarly affected, or we feel it there. Comp.
Robinson's Lex. on the word \~splagcnon\~. See this illustrated at length in
Sir Charles Bell's "Anatomy of Expression," p. 85, seq. Ed. London, 1844.
The idea here is, that Paul had such a tender affection for Onesimus
as to give him great concern and uneasiness. The word rendered
"refresh"--\~anapauson\~--means to give rest to, to give repose, to free
from sorrow or care; and the sense is, that by receiving Onesimus,
Philemon would cause the deep and anxious feelings of Paul to
cease, and he would be calm and happy. Comp. See Barnes "Philemon 1:7".
{a} "refresh" Philemon 1:7
Verse 21. Having confidence in thy obedience. That you would comply
with all my expressed desires.
I wrote unto thee. "I have written to you;" to wit, in this epistle.
Knowing that thou wilt also do more than I say. In all the respects
which he had mentioned--in receiving Onesimus, and in his kind treatment
of him. He had asked a great favour of him, but he knew that he would
go even beyond what he had asked.
{b} "confidence" 2 Corinthians 7:16
{+} "obedience" "compliance"
Verse 22. But withal. Or, at the same time-- \~ama\~. While
you are granting this favour, do me also another by preparing a lodging
for me.
Prepare me also a lodging. Philemon had been accustomed to show
kindness to the saints (Philemon 1:6,) and not improbably Paul
had before shared his hospitality. The word rendered lodging
(\~xenia\~) means, properly, guest-right, hospitality, entertainment;
and then, a place for a guest. Compare Acts 28:23.
For I trust. Paul had some hope of being released--an event which
probably occurred. See Barnes "Philippians 1:25";
See Barnes "Philippians 2:23", See Barnes "Philippians 2:24". Compare Introduction
to 2 Timothy 1:1
Through your prayers. See Barnes "2 Corinthians 1:11". He expected release
in answer to the petitions of those who loved him, and the cause in which
he was engaged. Compare See Barnes "Acts 12:5".
I shall be given unto you. I shall be permitted to return to you, as
a favour \~carisyhsomai\~. Paul had no doubt that Philemon would so regard it,
and he had no apprehension that his abiding with him would be considered
as a burden.
{++} "withal" "At the same time"
{c} "I trust" Philippians 2:24
{d} "through your prayers" 2 Corinthians 1:11
Verse 23. There salute thee Epaphras. The same persons who are here
mentioned as greeting Philemon, are mentioned in the close of
the epistle to the Colossians--furnishing a high degree of evidence
that Philemon resided at Colosse. Epaphras was a member of the
church there. See Barnes "Colossians 4:12".
My fellow-prisoner in Christ Jesus. In the cause of Christ.
See Barnes "Philemon 1:1". The circumstance of his being a prisoner is
not mentioned in the parallel place in the epistle to the Colossians,
but nothing is more probable.
{e} "Epaphras" Colossians 1:7
Verse 24. Marcus, Aristarchus, Demas, and Lucas.
See Barnes "Colossians 4:10", See Barnes "Colossians 4:14"
{f} "Marcus" Acts 12:25
{g} "Aristarchus" Acts 19:29
{h} "Demas" 2 Timothy 4:11
{&} "Lucas" "Luke"
Verse 25. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, etc.
See Barnes "2 Timothy 4:22".
The subscription to the epistle is of no authority, but in this
case is undoubtedly correct. Compare the Remarks at the close
of 1 Corinthians, and Titus.
REMARKS.
Having now passed through with the exposition of this epistle,
it may be proper to copy, for comparison with it, one of the most
beautiful specimens of epistolary composition to be found in profane
literature--an epistle of Pliny, written on a similar occasion, and
having a strong resemblance to this; As a matter of taste, it is of
importance to show that the sacred writers do not fall behind the
most favourable specimens of literary composition to be found in
uninspired writings. The epistle of Pliny was directed to his
friend Sabinianus, in behalf of his manumitted slave who had offended
him, and who was consequently cast out of his favour. It is in
the following words :--
C. Plinius Sabiniano, S.
Libertus tuus, cui succensere te dixeras, yenit ad me advolutusque
pedibus meis, tanquam tuis, haesit. Flevit multum, multum rogavit,
multum etiam tacuit: in summa, fecit mihi fidem penitentice.
Vere credo emendatum, quia deliquisse sentit. Irasceris scio; et
irasceris merito, id quoque scio: sed tunc praecipua mansuetudinis
laus, cum irae causa justissima est. Amasti hominem; et spero
amabis: interim sufficit ut exorari te sinas. Licebit rursus irasci,
si meruerit: quod exoratus excusatius facies.
Remitte aliquid adolescentice ipsius; remitte lachrymis; remitte
indulgentiae tuae; ne torseris ilium, ne torseris etiam te. Torqueris
enim cum tam lenis irasceris. Vereor, ne ridear non rogare, sed
cogere, si precibus eju. s meas junxero. Sungain tureen tanto plenius
et etfusius, quantc ipsum acrius severiusque corripui, destricte
minatus, nunquam me postea rogaturum. Hoc illo, quem terreri
oportebat; tibi non idem. Nam fortasse iterum rogabo, impetrabo
iterum: sit mode tale, ut togare me, ut priestare te deceat. Vale.
Epistolar. Lib. ix. Ep. 21.
"Caius Pliny to Sabinianus, health:
"Thy freed man, with whom thou didst say thou wert incensed,
came to me, and having thrown himself at my feet, grasped them
as if they had been thine. He wept much; plead much; and yet
pleaded more by his silence. In short, he fully convinced me
that he was a penitent. I do sincerely believe that he is
reformed, because he perceives that he has done wrong. I know
that thou art incensed against him; and I know also that thou
art justly so; but then clemency has its chief praise when
there is the greatest cause for anger. Thou hast loved the
man; and I hope that thou wilt love him again. In the meantime,
it may suffice that thou dost suffer thyself to be entreated
for him. It will be right for thee again to be offended if
he deserves it; because, having allowed thyself to be
entreated, you will do it with greater propriety.
"Forgive something for his youth; forgive on account of his
tears; forgive on account of thine own kindness: do not
torment him; do not torment thyself--for thou wilt be tormented
when thou, who art of so gentle a disposition, dost suffer
thyself to be angry. I fear, if I should unite my prayers to
his, that I should seem not to ask, but to compel. Yet I will
write them, and the more largely and earnestly, too, as I have
sharply and severely reproved him; solemnly threatening him,
should he offend again, never more to intercede for him. This
I said to him, because it was necessary to alarm him; but I
will not say the same to thee. For perhaps I may again
entreat thee, and again obtain, if now that shall be done
which it is fit that I should ask and you concede.
Farewell."
Those who compare these two epistles, much as they may admire
that of Pliny as a literary composition, and as adapted to secure
the end which he had in view, will coincide with the remark of
Doddridge, that it is much inferior to the letter of Paul. There is
less courtesy--though there is much; there is less that is touching
and tender--though there is much force in the pleading; and there
is much less that is affecting in the manner of the appeal than in
the epistle of the apostle.
The epistle to Philemon, though the shortest that Paul wrote,
and though pertaining to a private matter in which the church at
large could not be expected to have any direct interest, is
nevertheless a most interesting portion of the New Testament, and
furnishes some invaluable lessons for the church.
I. It is a model of courtesy. It shows that the apostle was a
man of refined sensibility, and had a delicate perception of what
was due in friendship, and what was required by true politeness.
There are turns of thought in this epistle which no one would employ
who was not thoroughly under the influence of true courtesy
of feeling, and who had not an exquisite sense of what was proper
in intercourse with a Christian gentleman.
II. The epistle shows that he had great tact in argument, and
great skill in selecting just such things as would be adapted to
secure the end in view. It would be hardly possible to accumulate,
even in a letter of fiction, more circumstances which would be
fitted to accomplish the object which he contemplated, than he has
introduced into this short letter, or to arrange them in a way
better fitted to secure the desired result. If we remember the state
of mind in which it is reasonable to suppose Philemon was in regard to
this runaway servant, and the little probability that a man in his
circumstances would receive him with kindness again, it is impossible
not to admire the address with which Paul approaches him. It is not
difficult to imagine in what state of mind Philemon may have been, or
the obstacles which it was necessary to surmount in order to induce him
to receive Onesimus again--and especially to receive him as a
Christian brother. If, as has been commonly supposed, Onesimus had
been a slave; if he had run away from him; if he had been formerly
intractable and disobedient; if he had wronged him by taking property
with him that did not belong to him, or if he had owed him, and had run
off without paying him, it is not difficult for any one to imagine how
great was the difficulty to be overcome in his mind before the object of
Paul could be accomplished. This will be felt to be especially so, if
we bear in remembrance the repugnance necessarily felt by a slaveholder
to receive one who has been a slave as an equal in any respect, or to
regard and treat such an one as a Christian brother on the same level
with himself. Or if we suppose that Onesimus had been a voluntary
servant in the employ of Philemon, and had failed to render the
service which he had contracted to perform, or had embezzled property,
or had gone off in debt, greatly irritating the mind of his master, the
difficulty to be overcome before he received him again would be little
less. In either case, it would be necessary to soothe his irritated
feelings, and to inspire confidence in one who hitherto had evinced
little claim to it, and to persuade him now to receive one who had shown
that he was not to be trusted as a Christian brother. If the epistle be
examined with reference to either of these suppositions, it will be found
to be composed with the most finished tact and art.
III. This epistle has been frequently appealed to by the friends
and advocates of slavery as furnishing a support or apology for that
institution. Indeed, it would seem to be regarded by the advocates
of that system as so clear on the point, that all that they need to
do is to name it as settling the whole matter in debate. The points
which it is supposed by the advocates of that system to prove are two:
first, that slavery is right--since it is assumed that Onesimus was
a slave, and that Paul does not intimate to Philemon that the relation
was contrary to the spirit of Christianity; and second, that
it is our duty to send back a runaway slave to his master--since
it is assumed that Paul did this in the case of Onesimus. It cannot be
denied that this view of the matter would be sustained by
most of the commentaries on the epistle; but it is time to inquire
whether such an exposition is the true one, and whether this epistle
really gives countenance to slavery in respect to these points. In
order to this, it is important to know exactly what was the state
of the case in reference to these points--for in interpreting the
New Testament it should not be assumed that anything is in favour
of slavery, nor should anything be admitted to be in favour of it,
without applying the most rigid principles of interpretation--any
more than in the case of profaneness, adultery, or any other sin.
As the result of the examination of the epistle, we are now prepared
to inquire what countenance the epistle gives to slavery in these
respects, and whether it can be fairly appealed to either in
justification of the system, or in showing that it is a duty to return a
runaway slave against his consent to his former master. To make
out these points from the epistle, it would be necessary to demonstrate
that Onesimus was certainly a slave; that Paul so treats the subject as
to show that he approved of the institution; that he sent back Onesimus
against his own will; that he returned him because he supposed he had
done wrong by escaping from servitude; and that he meant that he should
continue to be regarded as a slave, and held as a slave, after his return
to Philemon. Now, in regard to these points, I would make the following
remarks in view of the exposition which has been given of the epistle:--
(1.) There is no positive evidence that Onesimus was a slave at
all. See Barnes "Philemon 1:16". Even if it should be admitted to be
probable that he was, it would be necessary, in order that this
epistle should be adduced in favour of slavery, that that fact should
be made out without any ground of doubt, or the argument is
worthless. It is clear that the epistle, under any circumstances,
can be adduced in favour of slavery only so far as it is certain that
Onesimus was a slave. But that is not certain. It cannot be made
to be certain. It should not be taken for granted. Either of the
suppositions that he was bound to service till he was of age, by a
parent or guardian, or that he had voluntarily bound himself to
service for wages, will meet all that is necessarily implied in the
epistle.
(2.) There is not the least evidence that Paul used any force, or
even persuasion to induce him to return to his master. It cannot
be proved from the epistle that he even advised him to return. It
is certain that he did not compel him to do it--for Paul had no
power to do this, and no guard or civil officer accompanied Onesimus to
secure him if he had chosen to escape. Every one of the circumstances
mentioned in the epistle will be met by the supposition that Onesimus
desired to return, but that there were circumstances which made him
apprehensive that if he did, he would not be kindly received, and that,
at his request, Paul wrote the epistle to induce Philemon to receive him
kindly. Nothing more can be proved; nothing more is necessary to be
believed, in order to a fair interpretation of the epistle. Nothing is
more natural than the supposition that when Onesimus was truly converted,
he would desire to return to Philemon if he had in any way done him
wrong. But to make it proper to adduce this epistle to show that
it is a duty to return a runaway slave to his master, even on the
supposition that Onesimus was a slave, it is necessary to prove
either that Paul advised him to return, or that he compelled
him to do it against his will. No one doubts that it would be right to
help one who had escaped from slavery, if, on any proper account,
he should wish to go back to his former master: if he felt that he
had wronged him, or if he had a wife and children in the neighbourhood,
or if he was satisfied that he could be more happy in his service than
he could be elsewhere. To this point, and this only, this epistle goes.
(3.) There is no evidence that Paul meant that Onesimus should
return as a slave, or with a view to be retained and treated as a
slave. Even supposing he had been so formerly, there is not the
slightest intimation in the epistle that when he sent him back to
his master, he meant that he should throw himself into the chains
of bondage again. Nor is there the slightest evidence that if he
had supposed that this would be the result, he would have even
consented that he should return to his master. No man can take
this epistle, and prove from it that Paul would have sent him at all,
if he had supposed that the effect would be that he would be
reduced to slavery, and held in bondage. If such had been his
expectation, he would never have written such a letter as this.
The expression of such a desire would have found a place in the
epistle; or, at least, the epistle would not have been so framed as
almost of necessity to lead to a different result.
(4.) There is very satisfactory evidence, besides this, that he
did not mean that Onesimus should be regarded and treated by
Philemon as a slave. It would be impossible for Philemon to
comply with the wishes breathed forth in this letter, and meet exactly
the desires of Paul in the case, and yet retain him as a slave,
or regard him as property--as a "chattel"--as a "thing." For
(a.) if he had been formerly a slave; if this is the fair meaning of
the word \~doulov\~ or--doulos--then this is expressly declared. Thus,
in Philemon 1:16, he is commanded to receive him "NOT now as a
servant" \~ouketi wv doulon\~. If he had been a slave before, he did not
wish that he should be received as such now, or regarded as such
any longer. How could Philemon comply with the wish of the
apostle, and yet regard Onesimus as a slave? The very attempt
to do it would be directly in the face of the expressed desire of
Paul, and every moment he held him as such he would be disregarding his
wishes.
(b.) He desired him to receive and treat him, in all respects, as a
Christian brother--as one redeemed--as a man:--"Above a servant, a
brother beloved." How could he do this, and yet regard and treat him
as a slave? Is it treating one as a Christian brother to hold him as
property; to deprive him of freedom; to consider him an article of
merchandise; to exact his labour without compensation? Would the man
himself who makes another a slave suppose that he was treated as a
Christian brother, if he were reduced to that condition? Would he
feel that his son was so regarded if he was made a slave? There are no
ways of reconciling these things. It is impossible for a master to
regard his slave as, in the proper and full sense of the phrase,
"a Christian brother." He may, indeed, esteem him highly as a
Christian; he may treat him with kindness; he may show him
many favours; but--he regards him also As HIS SLAVE; and this
fact makes a difference wide "as from the centre thrice to the utmost
pole" in his feelings towards him and other Christians. He
is not on a level with them as a Christian. The notion of his being
his slave mingles with all his feelings towards him, and gives a
colouring to all his views of him. He cannot but feel, if he himself
is under the influence of religion, that that slave, if he were treated
in all respects as a Christian, would be as free as himself; would have
a right to his time, and skill, and liberty; would be permitted to form
his own plans, and to enjoy the avails of his own labour; and would be
secure from the possibility of being sold.
(c.) Suppose now that Paul, after a short interval, had actually come
to the residence of Philemon, as he expected to, (Philemon 1:22,) and
had found him regarding and treating Onesimus as a slave; would he have
felt that Philemon had complied with his wishes? Did he ask this of
him? Did he not request just the contrary? Philemon 1:16. Would it not
be natural for him to say to him that he had not received him as he
wished him to? And how would Philemon reply to this?
(5.) The principles laid down in this epistle would lead to the universal
abolition of slavery. If all those who are now slaves were to become
Christians, and their masters were to treat them "not as slaves, but as
brethren beloved," the period would not be far distant when slavery
would cease. This probably will be admitted by all. But a state of things
which would be destroyed by the widest prevalence of Christianity, is not
right at any time. Christianity, in its highest influences, interferes
with nothing that is good, and would annihilate nothing which is not
wrong. That which is true, and best for the welfare of man, will survive
when the true religion spreads all over the world; and to say, as is
commonly admitted even by the advocates of slavery, that Christianity
will ultimately destroy the system, is to say that it is now wrong--
for Christianity destroys nothing which is in itself right, and which is
desirable for the highest good of man. It will destroy intemperance,
and idolatry, and superstition, and war--because they are evil and
wrong--and only because they are so; and for the same reason, and
that only, will it abolish slavery. When a man, therefore, admits that
the gospel will ultimately destroy slavery, he at the same time admits
that it is now an evil and a sin. The gospel is adapted and designed to
put an end to the system. It did annihilate it in the Roman empire,
and its tendency everywhere is to secure its final abolition. The system,
therefore, is evil. It is opposed to the spirit of religion. It is
destructive of the welfare of society. It is a violation of human rights.
It is contrary to the will of God. The gospel everywhere teaches us
to regard the slave "no longer as a slave, but as a brother;" and when
this is secured, the system must speedily come to an end. For this, and
for all its other anticipated influences, we should labour and pray that
the gospel may be diffused as speedily as possible all over the world;
that it may raise man everywhere from his degradation, and invest every
human being with the dignity of a freeman; that it "may undo the heavy
burdens, break every yoke, and bid the oppressed go free,"
Isaiah 58:6.
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