Philemon 1:10 – I appeal to you for my son Onesimus, who became my son while I was in chains.
Extended Explanation of the Verse
In this verse, Paul finally introduces the reason he’s writing: he is making a personal appeal to Philemon on behalf of a man named Onesimus. He calls Onesimus “my son,” not in a biological sense, but in a spiritual one. Onesimus had become a believer through Paul’s ministry-most likely during Paul’s time in prison. That’s what Paul means by saying Onesimus became my son while I was in chains.
Paul uses the language of family here. Onesimus is no longer just a slave or a runaway-he is now someone Paul loves like a son. He is part of the family of God. This changes everything about how Onesimus should be seen and treated.
This is more than just a request for mercy. It’s a heartfelt plea grounded in relationship, grace, and shared faith.
Historical Context
In the Roman world, slavery was widespread. Onesimus had been a slave in Philemon’s household, but he had run away-possibly stealing something in the process (v. 18). That was a serious crime in that culture, punishable by law, even by death.
But somewhere along the way, Onesimus ended up in Rome and came into contact with Paul. Through Paul’s witness, Onesimus became a follower of Jesus. This changed his identity, his purpose, and his relationship with Philemon.
At this point in history, Christian teaching was beginning to challenge how people thought about social roles like slavery. Paul’s approach doesn’t begin with social reform from the outside-it begins with transformed hearts from the inside. By calling Onesimus his son, Paul is making a bold statement: this man, once a slave, is now a beloved member of God’s family.
Theological Implications
This verse is packed with deep spiritual truth. It shows how the Gospel changes lives. Onesimus went from being a runaway and possibly a thief to a dearly loved spiritual son and brother in Christ. That kind of transformation can only happen through the power of the Gospel.
It also shows how Christian relationships are shaped by spiritual rebirth. Paul didn’t see Onesimus through the lens of his past mistakes. He saw him as a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17). And now, Paul is urging Philemon to do the same.
This verse also illustrates the power of spiritual mentorship. Paul poured into Onesimus while in prison, and God used that time-what could have seemed like a setback-to bring eternal fruit.
Literary Analysis
Paul has carefully built up to this moment. He began with thanksgiving, praised Philemon’s love, reminded him of their bond, and appealed on the basis of love. Now he introduces the heart of his request.
By saying “my son Onesimus,” Paul chooses deeply affectionate language. It builds an emotional connection and humanizes someone who may have been seen only as property before. Paul could’ve said “your runaway slave,” but he doesn’t. He frames Onesimus’ identity in terms of faith, not failure.
The phrase “became my son while I was in chains” is also important-it highlights Paul’s own suffering and commitment to the Gospel, while honoring the miracle of Onesimus’ salvation.
Biblical Cross-References
- 1 Corinthians 4:15 – Paul says, “For in Christ Jesus I became your father through the gospel.”
- 2 Corinthians 5:17 – “If anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”
- Galatians 3:28 – “There is neither slave nor free… for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”
- Luke 15:24 – The prodigal son returns, and the father says, “This son of mine was dead and is alive again.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse reminds us that no one is beyond the reach of God’s grace. Onesimus had messed up. He had run away. He had a broken relationship with his master. But through the message of Jesus, his life was changed.
God still does this today. He takes broken people, lost people, hurting people-and makes them sons and daughters. No one’s past disqualifies them from God’s mercy.
It also challenges us to see others not by their past, but by who they are becoming in Christ. Like Paul, we should be willing to advocate for others, especially those who are new in their faith and need support and acceptance.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse shows God’s heart for redemption. He doesn’t write people off-He brings them into His family. Just like Paul welcomed Onesimus, God welcomes us through faith in Jesus.
God’s love is so great that He uses even difficult situations (like Paul’s imprisonment) to accomplish eternal good. It’s a reminder that His love is always working, even when circumstances are hard.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Paul calls Onesimus “my son” because Onesimus became a believer in Christ through Paul’s ministry. That transformation is only possible because of what Jesus did on the cross. Jesus died for sinners like Onesimus and like us, so that we could be forgiven and made new.
The phrase “while I was in chains” echoes the sacrifice Jesus made. Paul was in chains, suffering for the sake of the Gospel, just as Jesus suffered to bring us into God’s family.
Jesus is the one who brings reconciliation-between God and people, and between people and each other. That’s exactly what Paul is working toward in this letter.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does this verse change the way you view people who have made mistakes or have a difficult past?
- Who in your life has been a spiritual mentor like Paul was to Onesimus?
- Are you willing to see others as family in Christ, even if their past is messy?
- How does knowing that God can use any circumstance-including hardship-to reach others encourage you?
- What can you do to help support and welcome someone who is new in their faith?