Philemon: Typifying Attributes

The Book of Philemon

Hearing of thy love and faith,

which thou hast toward the Lord Jesus,

and toward all saints;

v.5

Picture Paul (typifying Christ)

Picture Philemon (typifying God) 

Picture Onesimus, the runaway slave (typifying us)

I rather beseech thee,
being such an one as Paul the aged,
v.9

 

***********************************************

Paul intercedes on behalf of runaway slave

I beseech thee for my son Onesimus,

whom I have begotten in my bonds:

v.10

Paul asks Philemon to treat Onesimus as himself

If thou count me therefore a partner,

receive him as myself.

v.17

The series of events may work out for the good

For perhaps he therefore departed for a season,

 that thou shouldest receive him for ever;

v.15

Paul will pay the price

If he hath wronged thee, or oweth thee ought,

put that on mine account;

I Paul have written it with mine own hand,

 I will repay it:

v.18,19
Justified in his sight
Not now as a servant, but above a servant,
a brother beloved, specially to me, but how much more unto thee,
v.16

Paul will join Philemon shortly

But withal prepare me also a lodging:

v.22

Summary:

Your love has given me much joy and comfort,

my brother,

for your kindness has often refreshed the hearts of God’s people.

v.7