Philemon 1:1

KJV

¶ Paul, a prisoner of Jesus Christ, and Timothy [our] brother, unto Philemon our dearly beloved, and fellowlabourer,

KJV (with Strong's)

Paul {G3972}, a prisoner {G1198} of Jesus {G2424} Christ {G5547}, and {G2532} Timothy {G5095} our brother {G80}, unto Philemon {G5371} our {G2257} dearly beloved {G27}, and {G2532} fellowlabourer {G4904},

Complete Jewish Bible

From: Sha’ul, a prisoner for the sake of the Messiah Yeshua, and brother Timothy

To: Our dear fellow-worker Philemon,

Berean Standard Bible

Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus, and Timothy our brother, To Philemon our beloved fellow worker,

American Standard Version

Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus, and Timothy our brother, to Philemon our beloved and fellow-worker,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Philemon 1:1 serves as the opening salutation of Paul's deeply personal letter, immediately establishing the senders—Paul, identifying himself profoundly as "a prisoner of Jesus Christ," and Timothy, his brother in faith—along with the primary recipient, Philemon, addressed with warmth as "our dearly beloved, and fellowlabourer." This concise verse sets a tone of intimate Christian fellowship, shared ministry, and humble authority, laying the groundwork for Paul's heartfelt appeal regarding Onesimus.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse initiates the Epistle to Philemon, a singular letter among Paul's New Testament writings due to its highly personal and specific nature. Unlike his broader theological treatises or church-wide instructions, Philemon is a private appeal concerning a runaway slave, Onesimus, who had become a believer while with Paul. Verse 1:1 functions as the standard Greco-Roman epistolary salutation, identifying the sender(s) and recipient(s). It immediately establishes the relational framework—Paul's humble yet authoritative position, Timothy's supportive role, and Philemon's esteemed status within the Christian community—upon which the subsequent plea for Onesimus's reconciliation and restoration is built. The personal address and warm descriptors prepare the reader for the intimate and sensitive nature of the letter's core message.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The letter was likely penned during one of Paul's imprisonments, most probably in Rome around A.D. 60-62, concurrent with his letters to the Colossians and Ephesians. Slavery was a pervasive institution in the Roman Empire, and runaway slaves faced severe penalties, often death. Philemon was a wealthy Christian, likely living in Colossae (given the connection with Onesimus and the letter to the Colossians), and a significant figure in the local church, possibly hosting a house church (Philemon 1:2). Paul's self-identification as a "prisoner" would have resonated deeply, highlighting his suffering for the Gospel, while his addressing Philemon as "dearly beloved" and "fellowlabourer" underscored the profound familial bonds that transcended societal hierarchies and personal circumstances within the early Christian community, setting the stage for an appeal that would challenge conventional social norms regarding master-slave relationships.
* **Key Themes:** Philemon 1:1 introduces several foundational themes that permeate the epistle. Paul's self-designation as a "prisoner of Jesus Christ" immediately highlights the theme of **Christian identity and suffering for the Gospel**, emphasizing that his physical confinement is ultimately a spiritual designation and a service to Christ, a perspective he articulates elsewhere, such as in [Ephesians 3:1](/ephesians/3-1 "Ephesians 3:1 - Paul, Prisoner for Gentiles"). The inclusion of Timothy and the address to Philemon as "our dearly beloved, and fellowlabourer" underscores the theme of **Christian brotherhood and fellowship**, revealing the deep relational bonds and mutual respect that characterized the early church, regardless of social standing. This familial language sets the stage for Paul's appeal for Onesimus, transforming a legal matter into a question of Christian love and reconciliation. Furthermore, the term "fellowlabourer" introduces the theme of **partnership in ministry**, indicating Philemon's active participation in the work of the Gospel, a concept Paul frequently emphasizes, as seen in [1 Corinthians 3:9](/1_corinthians/3-9 "1 Corinthians 3:9 - God's Fellow Workers").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **prisoner (Greek, _désmios'_):** from δεσμόν; a captive (as bound):--in bonds, prisoner. Paul's self-identification as a "prisoner" is not merely a statement of his physical confinement by Roman authorities but, as the phrase "of Jesus Christ" clarifies, a declaration of his ultimate allegiance and purpose. His imprisonment is viewed as a consequence of his service to Christ, transforming a state of physical bondage into a spiritual designation of devotion and suffering for the Gospel. This redefines his status from one of human constraint to divine appointment.
* **dearly beloved (Greek, _agapētós'_):** from ἀγαπάω; beloved:--(dearly, well) beloved, dear. This term, derived from _agapao_ (to love unconditionally), signifies a profound, selfless, and spiritual affection. Paul uses it to express the deep, Christ-centered love he holds for Philemon, characteristic of the familial bonds within the early Christian community. It speaks to a relationship founded on shared faith and mutual spiritual esteem, transcending mere friendship.
* **fellowlabourer (Greek, _synergós'_):** from a presumed compound of σύν and the base of ἔργον; a co-laborer, i.e. coadjutor:--companion in labour, (fellow-)helper(-labourer, -worker), labourer together with, workfellow. This word denotes a partner or co-worker in a shared task. By calling Philemon a "fellowlabourer," Paul acknowledges Philemon's active participation and significant contribution to the work of the Gospel, placing him on equal footing in the spiritual enterprise, despite Paul's apostolic authority and Philemon's social status.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Paul, a prisoner of Jesus Christ":** This opening phrase immediately identifies the primary sender. Paul, despite being an apostle with immense authority, chooses to introduce himself not by his office but by his humble and profound identity as one whose life and circumstances are entirely subjected to Christ. His imprisonment is framed not as a misfortune but as a direct consequence and even a form of service to Jesus Christ, establishing a tone of humility, suffering, and ultimate devotion.
* **"and Timothy our brother":** Paul includes Timothy as a co-sender, signifying their close bond and shared ministry. Timothy is identified as "our brother," emphasizing the familial nature of Christian relationships and the unity within the early church. This inclusion also lends a broader endorsement to the letter's contents, showing that the appeal is not solely Paul's personal request but comes from a shared heart within the Christian community.
* **"unto Philemon our dearly beloved, and fellowlabourer":** This clause identifies the recipient and immediately establishes the warm, affectionate, and respectful nature of Paul's relationship with Philemon. "Dearly beloved" speaks to a deep, spiritual affection rooted in shared faith, while "fellowlabourer" recognizes Philemon's active and valued participation in the work of the Gospel. These descriptors highlight Philemon's esteemed position within the Christian community and set a tone of mutual respect and partnership before the sensitive request regarding Onesimus is introduced.

#### Literary Devices
The opening verse of Philemon effectively employs several literary devices. The primary device is the **Epistolary Salutation**, a conventional opening in ancient letters that identifies the sender(s) and recipient(s), immediately establishing the communication's participants. Paul's specific wording, however, elevates this convention. His self-designation as "a prisoner of Jesus Christ" is a powerful form of **Identification** and **Paradox**, transforming a state of physical bondage into a spiritual badge of honor and devotion. It is a humble yet profound assertion of his ultimate allegiance. The use of kinship terms like "brother" for Timothy and the affectionate "dearly beloved" for Philemon exemplifies **Familial Language** or **Kinship Metaphor**, underscoring the intimate, familial bonds within the Christian community that transcend societal status. Finally, the term "fellowlabourer" serves as a form of **Affirmation** and **Shared Identity**, acknowledging Philemon's active participation in the Gospel ministry and reinforcing the idea of a collective effort in God's kingdom.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Philemon 1:1 profoundly establishes the nature of Christian identity and relationships. Paul's self-description as a "prisoner of Jesus Christ" is a powerful theological statement, asserting that his ultimate allegiance and purpose are defined by Christ, even in the midst of suffering and confinement. This reorients human circumstances under divine sovereignty, teaching that true freedom and purpose are found in Christ, regardless of external conditions. The familial language ("brother," "dearly beloved") and the designation "fellowlabourer" highlight the radical equality and deep, agape-love based fellowship that characterizes the body of Christ, where social distinctions are transcended by shared faith and mutual participation in God's mission. This foundational understanding of identity and community sets the stage for the letter's appeal for reconciliation and restoration, demonstrating how Christian principles transform human relationships.

* [Ephesians 3:1](/ephesians/3-1 "Ephesians 3:1 - Paul, Prisoner for Gentiles")
* [Philippians 1:7](/philippians/1-7 "Philippians 1:7 - Paul's Chains for Christ")
* [1 Corinthians 3:9](/1_corinthians/3-9 "1 Corinthians 3:9 - God's Fellow Workers")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Philemon 1:1 offers profound insights for contemporary believers. Paul's choice to identify primarily as "a prisoner of Jesus Christ" rather than by his apostolic authority challenges us to consider where our ultimate identity lies. Are we defined by our professions, social status, or personal achievements, or by our relationship with Christ? This verse encourages us to embrace even our trials and limitations as opportunities to demonstrate Christ's sovereignty and to serve His purposes, transforming perceived weaknesses into platforms for His glory. Furthermore, the warm and respectful address to Timothy and Philemon underscores the vital importance of fostering genuine, loving, and collaborative relationships within the Christian community. We are called to view fellow believers not merely as acquaintances but as "brothers" and "dearly beloved," united in a shared mission as "fellowlabourers" for the Gospel. This calls for humility, mutual respect, and a willingness to partner in ministry, recognizing and valuing each other's contributions to God's kingdom, regardless of individual roles or social standing.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Paul's self-identification as "a prisoner of Jesus Christ" challenge my own understanding of identity and purpose, especially in difficult circumstances?**
* **In what ways can I more deeply embrace and express Christian brotherhood and sisterhood within my community, seeing others as "dearly beloved" and "fellowlabourers"?**
* **How does this verse inspire me to view my own work or challenges as opportunities for serving Christ, rather than merely personal burdens?**

### FAQ

**Why does Paul call himself "a prisoner of Jesus Christ" instead of "an apostle of Jesus Christ" in this letter?**

Answer: Paul's choice to identify as "a prisoner of Jesus Christ" in Philemon 1:1 is highly significant and intentional. While he frequently asserted his apostolic authority in other letters (e.g., [Romans 1:1](/romans/1-1 "Romans 1:1 - Paul, a Servant and Apostle")), here he emphasizes his humble state of physical confinement for the sake of the Gospel. This self-designation serves several purposes: it evokes sympathy and humility, setting a personal and less authoritative tone for his delicate appeal regarding Onesimus; it highlights that his imprisonment is not a failure but a direct consequence of his devotion and service to Christ, making his suffering a form of ministry; and it underscores the profound truth that his ultimate allegiance and identity are found in Christ, regardless of his external circumstances. It demonstrates that even in chains, Paul is ultimately bound to Christ, not to Rome.

**What is the significance of Timothy being included in the salutation?**

Answer: The inclusion of Timothy in Philemon 1:1 as "our brother" alongside Paul is significant for several reasons. First, it signifies Timothy's close relationship with Paul as a trusted companion and fellow worker in the ministry, reinforcing the idea of shared purpose and spiritual kinship. Second, it lends additional weight and endorsement to the letter's content. While the appeal to Philemon is deeply personal, Timothy's presence suggests that the sentiments expressed are not merely Paul's individual feelings but are shared within their immediate apostolic circle, adding a broader communal backing to the plea for Onesimus. It also highlights the collaborative nature of early Christian ministry, where leaders worked in partnership and mutual support.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Philemon 1:1, though a simple salutation, subtly points to Christ's ultimate fulfillment of true freedom, brotherhood, and service. Paul's identity as "a prisoner of Jesus Christ" foreshadows the profound truth that genuine liberation is found not in the absence of physical chains, but in spiritual bondage to Christ, who Himself became a "prisoner" of humanity's sin to set us free ([Isaiah 53:8](/isaiah/53-8 "Isaiah 53:8 - Christ's Oppression and Judgment")). Jesus, the ultimate "fellowlabourer" with God the Father ([John 5:17](/john/5-17 "John 5:17 - Jesus' Work with the Father")), perfectly embodied the mission of reconciliation and restoration that Paul seeks to achieve in this letter. The "dearly beloved" relationship between Paul and Philemon, rooted in _agape_ love, reflects the sacrificial love of Christ for His church, breaking down barriers of social status and personal offense to create a new family in Him ([Galatians 3:28](/galatians/3-28 "Galatians 3:28 - No Jew or Gentile, Slave or Free, Male or Female in Christ")). Thus, this opening verse, by establishing a community bound by Christ-centered identity, love, and shared mission, lays the theological groundwork for the radical transformation and reconciliation that is only possible through the redemptive work of Jesus Christ, the one who makes all things new ([2 Corinthians 5:17](/2_corinthians/5-17 "2 Corinthians 5:17 - New Creation in Christ")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Ephesians 3:1

¶ For this cause I Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles,

Colossians 1:1

¶ Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timotheus [our] brother,

Philemon 1:9

Yet for love's sake I rather beseech [thee], being such an one as Paul the aged, and now also a prisoner of Jesus Christ.

Philippians 2:25

Yet I supposed it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, and companion in labour, and fellowsoldier, but your messenger, and he that ministered to my wants.

1 Corinthians 3:9

For we are labourers together with God: ye are God's husbandry, [ye are] God's building.

2 Timothy 1:8

Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God;

1 Thessalonians 3:2

And sent Timotheus, our brother, and minister of God, and our fellowlabourer in the gospel of Christ, to establish you, and to comfort you concerning your faith: