THE EPISTLE OF ST. PAUL TO PHILEMON
Philemon, a noble citizen of Colossa, had a servant named Onesimus, who robbed him and fled to Rome, where he met St. Paul, who was then a prisoner there the first time. The apostle took compassion on him and received him with tenderness and converted him to the faith; for he was a Gentile before. St. Paul sends him back to his master with this Epistle in his favour: and though he beseeches Philemon to pardon him, yet the Apostle writes with becoming dignity and authority. It contains divers profitable instructions and points out the charity and humanity that masters should have for their servants.
Philemon Chapter 1
He commends the faith and charity of Philemon; and sends back to him his fugitive servant, whom he had converted in prison.
1:1. Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus, and Timothy, a brother: to Philemon, our beloved and fellow labourer,
1:2. And to Appia, our dearest sister, and to Archippus, our fellow soldier, and to the church which is in thy house.
1:3. Grace to you and peace, from God our Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ.
1:4. I give thanks to my God, always making a remembrance of thee in my prayers.
1:5. Hearing of thy charity and faith, which thou hast in the Lord Jesus and towards all the saints:
1:6. That the communication of thy faith may be made evident in the acknowledgment of every good work that is in you in Christ Jesus.