Philemon 1:5 – because I hear about your love for all his holy people and your faith in the Lord Jesus.
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse gives us the reason behind Paul’s thanksgiving in the previous verse. He says he’s thankful for Philemon because he hears about two things: Philemon’s love for all God’s people and his faith in the Lord Jesus. Those two things-faith and love-go hand in hand in the Christian life.
Philemon’s faith in the Lord Jesus refers to his trust in Christ as Savior and Lord. It’s not just a belief in facts; it’s a personal, lived-out faith. And that faith shows itself in his love for all the saints-in other words, for all believers. Philemon didn’t just have private beliefs. He had an active love that was noticed by others, including Paul, even from a distance.
Paul says “I hear”-meaning Philemon’s faith and love were known in the wider Christian community. His life was bearing visible fruit. This verse highlights a real, vibrant faith that shows up in relationships and actions.
Historical Context
Paul is writing this letter from prison in Rome, likely around A.D. 60. He had not seen Philemon in a while, but he had received good reports about him-perhaps from people like Epaphras or Onesimus, who had traveled between Colossae and Rome.
In the early church, word of someone’s reputation could travel far. There were no phones or social media, but believers were deeply connected through letters, messengers, and mutual care. Paul celebrates that Philemon’s faith and love had made a positive impact beyond his local setting. This kind of reputation was especially important in a time when Christians were a small and often misunderstood group.
Theological Implications
This verse brings out two of the core traits of true Christianity: faith in Jesus and love for other believers. These are not just personal qualities-they are signs of real spiritual life. The New Testament consistently teaches that a healthy faith in Christ will overflow into love for others (Galatians 5:6; James 2:17).
Faith is the root, and love is the fruit. If someone claims to have faith but has no love for others, something is off (1 John 4:20–21). Paul is affirming that Philemon’s life lines up with what he believes, which is exactly what God desires in His people.
This verse also shows how God’s people are meant to be a blessing to one another. Philemon’s faith wasn’t just about him and God-it made a difference in the lives of others, especially fellow believers.
Literary Analysis
This verse is part of Paul’s opening thanksgiving and flows naturally from verse 4. The word because connects the two verses and gives us the reason for Paul’s gratitude.
The structure highlights two key things-love and faith-with love mentioned first. This word order may reflect how Philemon’s love was particularly strong and noticeable, and perhaps even more relevant to the personal appeal Paul is about to make regarding Onesimus.
The phrase “all his holy people” (or “the saints”) refers to all Christians, not just a select few. Paul is making it clear that Philemon’s love wasn’t limited to a small circle of friends. It was broad, inclusive, and sincere.
Biblical Cross-References
- Galatians 5:6 – “The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love.”
- Colossians 1:4 – “We have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love you have for all God’s people.”
- 1 Thessalonians 1:3 – Paul thanks God for “your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love.”
- 1 John 4:7 – “Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For modern-day believers, this verse is a strong reminder that our faith in Jesus should lead us to love others-especially those in the church. It’s easy to say we believe in Jesus, but true faith will show itself in how we treat people.
This verse invites us to ask: Is our faith visible to others? Do people hear about our love and trust in Christ, like they did with Philemon? Our witness in the world is often tied to how we love fellow believers. When we live in a way that reflects Christ’s love, people notice.
It also shows us that our faith and love can be a blessing far beyond what we see. Philemon may not have known how far his example had reached, but Paul did. Our obedience, kindness, and service might encourage someone we’ve never even met.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse points to a God who values both relationship and action. He doesn’t just want belief without love, or love without truth. He works in our lives so that we trust Him and care deeply for His people.
The love Philemon had for the saints was a reflection of God’s own love. God loves His people deeply and calls us to love one another in the same way. When we live like that, we reflect the heart of our heavenly Father.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Faith in the Lord Jesus is central to this verse. It’s not faith in ourselves, our traditions, or our good deeds. It’s faith in a person-Jesus, who is Lord and Savior. That faith is what saves us and transforms us.
The love Philemon had for the saints is also rooted in Christ. Jesus commanded His followers to love one another as He has loved them (John 13:34). Philemon was living that out. The only way we can truly love others is by receiving and reflecting the love Jesus first gave us (1 John 4:19).
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- When others think about your life, do they see both faith in Jesus and love for others?
- How can you grow in loving all of God’s people, not just those you naturally get along with?
- What are practical ways your faith could express itself through love this week?
- Who in your life has modeled this kind of faith and love, and how has it impacted you?
- How does your love for other believers reflect the love Jesus has shown to you?