Chapter Summary

Greeting to Philemon. Intercession for Onesimus.

Discussion Questions for Philemon, Chapter 1

1. How does verse four speak to the importance of thankfulness in prayer? Is this something you practice often? If not, what are some ways to be more disciplined in that?
2. Paul refers to Philemon as brother in verse 7. What is the importance of community in Christ and what are some examples of this in your life?
3. In 9-10 Paul acknowledges his age and speaks about Onesimus as his son. Despite them not being related, what does this say about the importance of raising up the next generation and even for the people that can not have their own children like Paul?
4. How does verse 14 speak to the biblical model of free will? How does this tie into salvation?
5. Paul faces adversity all throughout his life. In this passage he is writing to Philemon while imprisoned, but despite this he is still furthering the Lord's will. What are some examples of adversity we might face today and how can these be overcome with the encouragement of Paul's life?
6. In verses 17 and 18 Paul tells Philemon that he will take any wrong that Onesimus does as his own. What does this demonstrate about Paul's character, and how can we emulate this?
7. What does verse 21 speak to? How can we carry this into our own relationships?
8. How does verse 22 speak to Paul's faith and hope he carries? What are some circumstances where it is easy for us to feel hopeless? How do we overcome that?
9. What could be said is the overall theme of this passage? What can we learn from these themes and Paul's unique perspective on life?
10. It is apparent that Paul has a very selfless others first mentality. How important is this quality in our own Christian walks, and how can it impact it?

Key Words/Phrase

Reception (of Christians),

Characters

God, Christ, Timothy, Philemon, Apphia, Archippus, Paul, Epaphras, Marcus, Aristarchus, Demas, Lucas.

Strong Verse(s)

v. 17.