What does Philemon 1:19 mean?

I Paul have written it with mine own hand, I will repay it: albeit I do not say to thee how thou owest unto me even thine own self besides. Philemon 1:19

Explanation

Philemon 1:19 is a verse from the Epistle to Philemon, a short letter written by the Apostle Paul. In this passage, Paul is interceding on behalf of Onesimus, a runaway slave who has become a Christian and whom Paul is sending back to his master, Philemon. Paul writes that he is personally willing to repay any debt or obligation that Onesimus owes to Philemon, asserting the sincerity of his promise by noting that he has written this commitment with his own hand, as opposed to using a scribe. The deeper meaning is seen in the appeal to the personal relationship that Paul has with Philemon, indicating that Philemon owes Paul a great personal debt as well, likely referring to Philemon’s own conversion or spiritual growth under Paul’s ministry. There is an appeal to kindness and generosity here, as well as a subtle reminder of shared spiritual indebtedness and community.

Historical Context

The Epistle to Philemon was written by Paul during one of his imprisonments, possibly in Rome between 59 and 61 A.D. Slavery was an integral part of ancient Roman society, and it was not unusual for slaves to run away from their masters. However, the Christian message of equality and brotherhood could place masters and slaves on more equal footing within the Christian community. This letter reflects early Christian attitudes towards slavery and demonstrates how personal relationships were to be transformed within the body of believers.

Theological Insights

Several theological insights can be gleaned from this verse. First is the concept of intercession, where Paul intercedes on behalf of Onesimus, similar to how Christ intercedes on behalf of humankind. Another insight is the idea of imputation and substitution, where Paul offers to repay the debt incurred by Onesimus, akin to how Christ paid the debt for sinners. Lastly, there is the theme of brotherly love and forgiveness, as Paul calls on Philemon to forgive Onesimus and accept him as a brother in Christ rather than merely a servant.

Practical Applications

The practical applications of this verse can have various implications for modern Christians. It encourages believers to advocate for others and support those who have wronged them as a reflection of Christ’s forgiveness. It also suggests that Christians should take responsibility for their communities, helping to reconcile and resolve conflicts. On a social level, this passage has historically been referenced in discussions about slavery, social justice, and the need for reform in societal structures.

Cross-References

• Colossians 3:13: “Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also [do] ye.”
• Romans 8:34: “Who [is] he that condemneth? [It is] Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.”
• Galatians 6:2: “Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.”
• 2 Corinthians 5:21: “For he hath made him [to be] sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.”

Language Study

The key words in the original Greek text for Philemon 1:19 include:

• “εγω” (egō) translated as “I”, emphasizing Paul’s personal involvement.
• “χειρα” (cheira) meaning “hand”, indicating the personal touch of writing the letter himself.
• “αποτισω” (apotisō) which is translated as “I will repay” or “I will recompense”, showing Paul’s commitment to settle any debts.
• “οφειλεις” (opheileis) meaning “thou owest” or “you owe”, referring to Philemon’s debt to Paul, which is probably spiritual in nature.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the broader Greco-Roman world, letters of recommendation or intercession like this one were common. Yet, Paul’s letter is distinctive because it reflects early Christian values that transcend traditional social hierarchies. Comparatively, other ancient religions and myths sometimes offer figures who intercede with gods on behalf of humans, but the Christian idea of intercession is more personal and rooted in a sense of shared community and moral accountability.

Scientific Perspectives

The study of ancient texts such as the Epistle to Philemon includes scientific disciplines like papyrology and paleography, which help in authenticating and dating manuscripts. The social sciences, such as anthropology and sociology, examine the implications of Paul’s request in the context of Roman slavery, social status, and early Christian community dynamics.

commentaries

Commentaries on this verse note Paul’s direct and personal involvement in the matter of Onesimus, which illustrates Paul’s leadership style and pastoral concern. Matthew Henry’s Commentary remarks on the affectionate and gentle tone Paul uses to persuade Philemon. The Expositor’s Greek Testament notes the legal implications and the tactful way Paul assumes Onesimus’s debt without discounting Philemon’s rights. John Calvin’s Commentary highlights the beauty of Christian love and forgiveness exemplified in the letter. Most commentaries agree on the richness of grace and fellowship exemplified by Paul’s action and wording in this verse.