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The Apostle Paul commends Philemon, a believer in Colossae, for his faith and love having received much joy and comfort from his demonstration of God’s love (v5). Philemon’s faith resulted in generosity (v6). He opened his home for the believers to assemble for Christian meetings (v2). His love refreshed the hearts of many saints (v7). Paul could confidently approach him to prepare a guest room for him (v22). Indeed, Philemon’s faith expressed itself through love. (Gal. 5:6) 

Onesimus, Philemon’s slave, had run away (v18). He met Paul in Rome and became a Christian through Paul’s ministry (v10). Paul recognises Onesimus’ duty to Philemon and sent him back to Philemon with a letter (v12; Col. 4:7-9). Under Roman law, runaway slaves can be punished by death. However, Paul appeals to Philemon to demonstrate God love and to forgive Onesimus for any wrongdoing. He requests Philemon to receive Onesimus, not as a slave, but as a brother in Christ (v16). Paul even offered to repay personally any loss which Philemon might have suffered, asking Philemon to charge it to his account (v18). 

God’s love bears all things and forgives. Just as Jesus Christ died and paid the penalty for our sins, Paul was willing to pay for any debt that Onesimus owed to Philemon. He was confident Philemon would do likewise (v21). “Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for he who loves his fellowman has fulfilled the law” (Rom. 13:8).

God’s love in Christ transforms our earthly relationships. Onesimus became Paul’s spiritual son; begotten while Paul was in prison (v10). Philemon also owed Paul his spiritual life, having come to faith through Paul witness (v19). A slave in the Roman world has no legal rights. However, in Christ, Onesimus is on equal terms with Paul and Philemon. “There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus” (Gal. 3:28.) 

Let us forgive and forbear the mistakes of those under our authority and treat them justly (Col. 4:1) e.g. our domestic helpers, our employees etc. If they are in Christ, we should regard them as beloved brothers and sisters in God’s family. It will certainly cost us to demonstrate God’s love, but let us do it for love’s sake.