Philemon
PeopleWhat is the meaning of Philemon in the Bible?
Philemon was a Christian convert and leader in Colossae who hosted a house church and was the father of Archippus. He is primarily known for receiving a letter from the Apostle Paul concerning Onesimus, a runaway slave who had become a Christian under Paul's influence.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding Philemon's role as a house church host and Paul's correspondent clarifies the social dynamics of early Christian communities and illustrates how Paul navigated complex social hierarchies, such as slavery, through appeals to Christian brotherhood rather than direct political confrontation.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
- Why did the biblical author mention Philemon in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Philemon clarify?
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.