Scripture Snapshots: A Brief Journey Through the BibleSample

Philemon (Book 57/66) – A Book Written by Paul to Specific People

Philemon is a personal letter from Paul to Philemon, urging him to welcome back his runaway slave, Onesimus, as a brother in Christ. Slavery is a problematic issue in our time, but it is crucial not to apply presentism to the past, believing that everyone should live up to modern standards. Slavery was a way of life for most of human history. The Old and New Testaments show us how Christians are supposed to treat one another in every relationship, including from master to slave. This letter is in the same vein, encouraging forgiveness, reconciliation, and the gospel's transformative power. Paul's appeal for reconciliation points to Jesus, who reconciles us to God and one another.

These summaries are meant to help you understand the book, but so many historical and factual details were passed over in favor of brevity. This devotional plan is intended to give you a snapshot of the book and help you understand God’s redemptive plan throughout the Bible.

Key Sections: Philemon 1:4-7, Philemon 1:8-11, Philemon 1:15-16, Philemon 1:17-18, Philemon 1:21