Christian Outfitters - Discipleship Resources, Workshops, Inspirational Graphics, Leather Journals. This letter is Paul's' personal appeal to a wealthy Christian slaveowner. Paul's first goal was to see Philemon freely embrace the fugitive Onesimus as a brother in Christ.
Brotherly love requires practical grace and mercy.
He brings this petition to Philemon because he knew him well and that Philemon's love and character would prevail. Only with Christ's example of forgiveness through the Cross are we able to overcome our hurts and mistakes and be reconciled to our brothers and sisters in Christ. Philemon is challenged to show the same unconditional pardon that he received through the grace and love of Jesus. Paul's offer to pay the debt that was not his own on behalf of a repentant slave is a clear picture of the work of Calvary. It is the Holy Spirit who was at work throughout this event.