Radical Request

We started Philemon 1 today. Paul writes a deeply personal letter to Philemon, asking for mercy in dealing with his runaway slave, Onesimus. Runaway slaves could face severe punishment if they were caught. Onesimus did not merely run away; he likely robbed Philemon in the process. Paul asks Philemon to see Onesimus as a brother.

‘He is no longer like a slave to you. He is more than a slave, for he is a beloved brother, especially to me. Now he will mean much more to you, both as a man and as a brother in the Lord.   So if you consider me your partner, welcome him as you would welcome me. ‘
Philemon 1:16-17

This is a radical request that highlights Christ’s power to transform human hearts. Christ’s teachings often turn social expectations upside down. For example, instead of seeking revenge or holding onto status, Jesus calls his followers to forgive, show mercy, and see each person as valuable. Paul’s appeal to Philemon challenges both the idea of slavery and the barriers that separated people. It raises questions for us too: How might following Christ move us to treat others differently, even if it goes against what is normal or expected in our culture?

Christ commands something radical of us

‘But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, ‘
Matthew 5:44

While this chapter leaves us on a cliffhanger, church tradition tells us that Onesimus went from a slave to the leader of the church in Ephesus. According to early church fathers like Ignatius of Antioch, this tradition about Onesimus was passed down by early Christian communities.
https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2023/02/15/100526-apostle-onesimus-of-the-seventy