Philemon 1:23–25 — Grace at the Close
Paul closes with greetings from his companions and speaks the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ over everyone addressed.
Philemon 1:17–22 — Receive Him as Myself
Paul asks Philemon to receive Onesimus as he would receive Paul, takes the debt himself, and trusts Philemon to respond generously.
Philemon 1:12–16 — Sent Back
Paul sends Onesimus back, refuses to force Philemon’s hand, and asks him to receive Onesimus not only as a servant but as a beloved brother.
Philemon 1:8–11 — The Slower Path
Paul could have commanded Philemon, but he chose to appeal in love for Onesimus, a man whose life had changed.
Philemon 1:4–7 — A Faith That Shows
Paul thanks God for Philemon’s living faith, prays that it will become active in love, and rejoices that the saints have been refreshed by him.
Philemon 1:1–3 — Grace and Peace at the Door
Before Paul brings his hard request, he tells them who is writing, who must hear it, and speaks God’s grace and peace over all of them.