Philemon 1:2

Beloved. Textual evidence favors the reading “sister,” that is, one who is a sister in Christian fellowship. Paul grants Apphia equal status with himself and Philemon. The elevation of womanhood is one of Christianity’s great contributions to the human race, this being one of the many instances in the NT where the dignity of a woman is emphasized. In most pagan societies the woman is limited to a kind of serfdom, but Christianity has emancipated her from this condition and has granted her a position of social and spiritual equality with her husband. The ennobling companionship of Christian, and even many non-Christian, homes today may be traced to the inspired teachings of Jesus Christ.

Archippus. In view of the close connection in which Archippus is mentioned with Philemon and Apphia he may have been their son. Paul commended Archippus, his “fellowsoldier,” for his aggressive Christian leadership. Perhaps he directed the affairs of the Colossian church during the absence of Epaphras, the regular leader (Colossians 4:17).

Church. Greek ekklesia (see on Matthew 18:17).

Thy house. Some believe that this refers specifically to the servants and other members of Philemon’s household. Others, however, believe Paul refers to a Christian congregation that met for worship in this home. That early Christians met in private homes for church services is amply attested in the NT. For example, Mary’s home in Jerusalem (Acts 12:12), the house of Priscilla and Aquila in Rome (Romans 16:3-5), their house in Ephesus (1 Corinthians 16:19), and the house of Nymphas in Laodicea (Colossians 4:15). In large cities several church services would be conducted simultaneously in various homes. Paul knew that the whole church would be interested in the return of Onesimus. This letter was doubtless read in their hearing, for all would probably need its counsel to help them realize what was their Christian duty in regard to Onesimus. That Philemon’s house was of sufficient size to accommodate a congregation for worship suggests that he was a man of means and social influence.