Philemon 1:11

Unprofitable. Or, “useless.” It is not certain whether Paul here refers to indolence, or even thievery, while Onesimus worked for Philemon, or to the very absence of Onesimus from Philemon, thus rendering himself “useless” as far as service to his master is concerned. Both may be correct.

But now. That is, since Onesimus had met Paul and been converted. Paul intimates that if Onesimus had not ran away he would probably not now be a Christian. A slight suggestion of rebuke may be intended for Philemon. As a Christian he might have done the work for Onesimus that Paul had accomplished. Onesimus had to run away from his earthly master and find the apostle Paul in Rome before he found his true Lord and Master.

Thus Paul meets Philemon’s possible objection. Onesimus was at one time unprofitable to Philemon, but is now returning to his master a new and different man. Philemon, as well as Onesimus, will profit by a gracious reception, because Philemon’s former slave will now render service vastly different from former days.

And to me. Paul here links himself with Onesimus’ interests and future.

Consequently, what Philemon does for Onesimus he will be doing for Paul.