Philemon

Paul writes to Philemon and he begins with thanksgivings for Philemon, talking about Philemon's walk as a follower of Christ. Paul's writing to him for Onesimus' sake. Onesimus is a slave of Philemon and had run away. However, he met Paul in prison and became a follower of the Lord Jesus Christ. So, Paul sends Onesimus back to Philemon, even though Onesimus would have been of benefit to Paul. He is still a slave of Philemon so he should remain a slave and not run from that. Paul mentions how he could command instead of appeal to Philemon. However, he wishes for love's sake to appeal on Philemon. Paul even asks to charge anything owed by Onesimus to Paul's account. Paul isn't a rich guy, but he's willing to put his own money on the line for the sake of their relationship with one another. Paul continues to place confidence in Philemon that he will do what Paul says and he also intends to meet him sometime; he asks for him to prepare a guest room for him.