The Religious Significance of the Letter to the Colossians

Any discussion of religious significance with regard to this letter cannot ignore the fact that it introduced the household code. Its teaching on slavery also was used to justify oppression. Obviously, the letter reflects the mindset of the first century. It’s impossible to ignore, however, that the author of this letter, instead of Jesus’ and

Debts (Philemon 17-20)

17 So if you consider me a partner, welcome him as you would welcome me. 18 If he has done you any wrong or owes you anything, charge it to me. 19 I, Paul, am writing this with my own hand. I will pay it back—not to mention that you owe me your very self. 20 I do wish, brother, that I may have

The Appeal (Philemon 8-11)

8 Therefore, although in Christ I could be bold and order you to do what you ought to do, 9 yet I prefer to appeal to you on the basis of love. It is as none other than Paul—an old man and now also a prisoner of Christ Jesus— 10 that I appeal to you for my son Onesimus, who became my son while

The Uniqueness and the Significance of the Letter to Philemon

Often dismissed as a short and theologically unimportant letter, Thurston and Ryan argue that “the letter to Philemon stands on its own merits, given its radical, even groundbreaking appeal, testifying to the uncompromising nature of the Gospel and continuing to challenge all who belong to Christ to live in a way that is a clear