What does Philemon 1:3 Mean?

Verse Meaning

Paul"s benediction is the same as the one in the Colossian epistle except that he added the name of the Lord Jesus Christ here (cf. Colossians 1:2). Perhaps Paul intended that this addition would remind the recipients (plural "you" in Greek) of their union in Christ and God"s grace to them in Christ. [source][source]

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Context Summary

Onesimus had known the Apostle well in the old days when Paul visited at the house of his master Philemon, who seems to have been a man of importance. His house was large enough to admit of a church assembling in it, and to accommodate the Apostle and his traveling companions when they came to the city. Apphia, his wife, was also a Christian, and Archippus, their son, was engaged in some kind of Christian work in connection with the infant Christian community which they were nursing. Compare Philemon 1:1-2 with Colossians 4:17. It is beautiful to observe the Apostle's humility in associating these obscure people with himself as fellow-workers.

Onesimus had been a runaway slave, and fleeing to Rome, had been converted by the ministry of Paul-whom I have begotten in my bonds. The converted slave had become very dear and useful to his benefactor, Philemon 1:12-13. The Apostle now sends him back to his former owner with this letter, pleading that he be once more received into the household of Philemon. [source]

Chapter Summary: Philemon 1

¹  Paul rejoices to hear of the faith and love of Philemon,
⁸  whom he desires to forgive his servant Onesimus, and lovingly to receive him again