Philemon

Technical Profile

• Name Meaning: Greek Philemōn (“affectionate,” “loving”), a common personal name in the Greco-Roman world.
• Period/Era: Early Church; Roman Imperial Context (First Century AD).
• Main References: Philemon 1–25; implied setting alongside Colossians 4:7–9.
• Key Connections: Paul (apostolic correspondent); Onesimus (the subject of Paul’s appeal); Apphia and Archippus (associated with his household/church).

Who was Philemon?

Philemon was a Christian addressed by the apostle Paul in a personal letter during the Apostolic Age.
He hosted a local congregation that met in his house (Philem. 2).
Paul describes him as known for love and faith toward the Lord Jesus and fellow believers (Philem. 5).
The letter assumes he had social standing sufficient to host meetings and manage a household.

Key Events & Achievements

• Paul’s Letter Received: Paul wrote to him as a partner in ministry and urged a response consistent with Christian fellowship (Philem. 1, 6).
• Appeal Concerning Onesimus: Paul asked Philemon to receive Onesimus no longer merely as a bondservant but as a beloved brother (Philem. 10–16).
• Hospitality to the Church: His home functioned as a meeting place for the local assembly addressed in the letter (Philem. 2).

Life Lesson & Legacy

Philemon is remembered as a house-church leader whose relationships were shaped by apostolic teaching on unity in Christ within the Early Church.

Key Verse

"So if you consider me your partner, receive him as you would receive me." — Philemon 1:17, ESV