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Philemon in the Bible — Who Was Philemon? | fresh.bible

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Philemon

Philemon

A wealthy Christian in Colossae whose runaway slave became Paul's spiritual son

About

A prominent believer who hosted a house church in Colossae. Paul's letter to him is a masterclass in persuasion — asking him to forgive his runaway slave Onesimus and welcome him back as a brother in Christ. The letter quietly undermines the entire institution of slavery.

Relationships

family_historyHouse church leader in Colossae family_historyMaster of Onesimus

Appears In6 mentions across 2 books

colossians

The Messengers

Colossians 4:7-9

Philemon is referenced as the likely owner of Onesimus, making Paul's description of Onesimus as a 'beloved brother' a radical reframing of their prior legal and social relationship.

philemon

The Greeting That Sets the Tone

Philemon 1:1-7

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