Episode 2.45

A runaway slave. A personal letter. A gospel plea.

This episode dives deep into Paul's shortest—and most personal—epistle, written not to a church, but to a single man: Philemon.

Through a story of slavery, repentance, and mediation, we explore the power of reconciliation in Christ. Who was Onesimus, and why did he flee? Why did Paul step in? And what does this teach us about Christian intercession, accountability, and mercy?

Covered in this episode:

– Background on Philemon, Onesimus, and slavery in the Roman world

– Paul's prison setting and role as advocate

– Wordplay, theology, and irony in “useful” and “useless”

– A gospel-shaped appeal that mirrors Christ's own intercession

– Practical lessons for handling conflict, forgiveness, and restoration today

Whether read as ancient correspondence or gospel drama, Philemon calls Christians to radical grace—and reminds us that love often comes at a cost.

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