Introduction
In this personal letter from Paul to Philemon, we see how Christ transforms us and our relationships with others. Begin by reading the entire letter, and then review the scripture for each set of questions.
Philemon 1:1-3
1. To whom did Paul write this letter?
2. Who wrote it with him?
3. Where was Paul at the time he wrote the letter? See verses 1 and 9.
4. Where did the Christian church meet? See verse 2 and Romans 16:5.
5. Paul gives a blessing that they may have grace and peace. According to Romans 5:1-2, what is the source of these?
Philemon 1:4-7
6. Read 1 Corinthians 1:4 and Romans 1:8-9. What does Paul consistently do in regards to other believers?
7. How can this be a lesson to us?
8. What is the reason Paul gives in verse 5 for his thanks to God?
9. How do you think faith in Christ and love go together? Can you have one without the other?
10. In verse 6, what also comes from faith?
11. From verse 7, what has given Paul joy and encouragement?
12. Give an example of how another believer has refreshed you?
Philemon 1:8-12
13. Fill in the blanks: Paul makes his request of Philemon as a _________________ rather than a _______________.
14. From verses 7 and 9, what is the reason he does this?
15. What does Paul request of Philemon in verse 10?
16. Paul writes several letters from his prison cell, including this one to Philemon and one to the church at Colossi where Philemon resided. In his Colossian letter, Paul reminds the believers of appropriate Christian behavior. Read Colossians 3:22-25. What are Paul’s instructions to slaves?
17. Read Colossians 4:1. What are Paul’s instructions to masters?
18. From Philemon 1:11-12 and Colossians 4:9, who was Paul sending back to Colossi?
Philemon 1:13-16
19. What had Onesimus’ position been with Philemon?
20. Do you think Onesimus was a believer at the time he ran away? Explain.
21. How had Onesimus changed since he ran away?
22. What was Onesimus doing with Paul?
23. How had the relationship between Philemon and Onesimus changed?
24. Read Galatians 3:26-29. How does faith in Christ change relationships?
Philemon 1:17-25
25. What do verses 17-19 tell you about Paul’s relationship with Onesimus?
26. Why do you think Paul was confident in his request to Philemon?
27. How do you think you would have responded if you were Philemon?
28. Read the following verses and note what they say about forgiveness:
Mathew 5:44
Mathew 6:14-15
Mathew 18:21-22
Mark 11:25
Romans 12:19
1 Peter 3:9
29. Are there any relationships in your life that would benefit from forgiveness? What do you feel God is saying to you about this right now?