Philemon

1. In verse 2 we see the phrase "and the church in your house". At this time, church services were not held in buildings but the homes of other Christians. In Colossae, Philemon was one that opened his home for services. We don't know exactly who Apphia and Archippus are but what are some possibilities?

2. What things in verses 4-7 does Paul praise Philemon for?

3. From verse 6 describe what Paul prays for Philemon and what the result of that would be?

4. In verses 4-7 what does Paul say he was encouraged by from Philemon?

5. Read verses 8-22, what is Paul's main point for writing this section?

6. From this section in verses 8-22 what do we learn about the relationship between Paul and Onesimus?

7. In verses 12-16 we see that it is with a heavy heart that Paul sends Onesimus back to Philemon. Why does Paul want to keep Onesimus and why does he want to send him away?

8. In verse 16-18 Paul tells Philemon to receive Onesimus as a beloved brother and to charge anything he owes him back to Paul. Do you think Philemon obeyed this command? What makes you think he did or didn't? Hint: look at other verses.

9. From verses 20-22 what are the two things that Paul desires to happen?

10. Read the following verses for reference on the people listed in verses 23-24: Colossians 1:7, 4:10-14, Acts 12:12, 19:29 (read context if needed), 2 Timothy 4:9-11. Briefly describe each of these people.

11. What from this chapter were you most impacted by? Are there any things you want to mature in?