by John Taylor

Created on: November 25, 2008

For many Paul's seemingly casual attitude towards slavery is somewhat shocking! It appears that both Paul and the other Apostles may have been mildly in favour of the institution! In particular, looking at Paul's letter to Philemon, why doesn't he tell Philemon he is totally in the wrong for owning slaves?! Yes, he does appeal for leniency in the case of Onesimus, but why doesn't he do more to deal with the whole issue of slavery?

There are many opinions available! Some would say that Paul does openly and clearly confront slavery; others that he did not because although he no doubt wanted to it would not have been acceptable; still others hold that slavery in and of itself, whilst not desirable is not incompatible with Christianity hence Paul did not need to say anything. After examining the text it seems safe to say that nowhere does Paul explicitly tell Philemon he should not own slaves. Nor does he clearly ask Philemon to let Onesimus go, however, what he does is bigger than that, he tells Philemon to love Onesimus.

Verses 15 and 16 sum it up well! Here Paul tells Philemon that he has Onesimus back no longer as a slave but more than a slave, a beloved brother'. Formerly the relationship between Philemon and Onesimus was master and slave; that hasn't changed, after they both became Christians it was still the legal reality. The difference is that master/slave is no longer the primary bond between them now they are brothers, and that should have major ramifications! Philemon is left to ask himself, so how should I be treating this brother of mine?' Having been told of this new relationship between himself and Onesimus he is left to walk it out before God.

So whilst Paul is not overtly campaigning for social reform, he does demand change! It is clear from the tone of his letter to Philemon that he is confident that his meaning will be understood and that Philemon will treat Onesimus well. Further consider that this letter is addressed not only to Philemon, but to the whole congregation, presumably consisting of both masters and slaves; how might they be impacted seeing Philemon welcome Onesimus as a beloved brother'?

Paul does not have a flippant attitude towards the institution of slavery, nor is he afraid to address it! In this short letter he strikes right at its very core, elevating the runaway slave to the status of brother. Helping Philemon to see that in Christ all stand equal and loved before God.

Learn more about this author, John Taylor.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.