The article examines Paul's purpose in writing the letter to Philemon regarding the status of Onesimus, a slave. Through careful analysis of social networks, theological convictions, and rhetorical strategy, the article argues that Paul sought both Onesimus's manumission and a reimagining of the church community in Colossae.

Key points:

1. Social Context

• Philemon was situated between two networks: the church and the business community
• As a wealthy landowner and slave owner, he had high social standing in Colossae
• The letter was meant to be read publicly to the church

2. Paul's Theological Framework

• Replaced honor with mutual obligation
• Substituted social hierarchy with familial relationships
• Exchanged fate with divine election

3. Paul's Goals

• Primary: Help Philemon reimagine the church as a community of true fellowship
• Secondary: Secure Onesimus's manumission to strengthen bonds between all parties
• Used subtle rhetoric to avoid direct commands that could shame Philemon

4. Strategic Approach

• Acknowledged Philemon's complex social position
• Employed family language to reframe relationships
• Emphasized mutual obligations over honor/shame dynamics

The article concludes that Paul wanted Onesimus freed, not just as an end in itself, but to demonstrate how the church could embody new patterns of relationship based on brotherhood in Christ rather than social status.

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