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Philemon 17 – Partner – Koinonos
V.17 – If then you regard me a partner (koinonos)
Paul poses a question to Philemon concerning equality. (For a Biblical definition of “equality” see 2 Cor.8:13‑15.) It’s possible Paul could be referring back to his earlier use of Philemon sharing with other Christians; if he shared with other Christians and is a sharer with Paul, then he must be a sharer with Onesimus for Paul says, “accept him as you would me.” “These words sound the death‑knell of human slavery wherever the spirit of Christ is allowed to have its way.” [ibid., Robertson, p.468.]
Also, if vv.7,16 are connected with v.17 we can see what is called “the transitive property” in mathematics: if A=B, and B=C, then A=C.
- If Philemon considered Paul a brother,
- And Paul considered Onesimus a brother,
- Then Philemon must consider Onesimus as an equal partner and brother.
Even the exalted Christ was not ashamed to call all three His brothers (Heb.2:11).
Philemon, if he is consistent with himself, will not be able to think worse of a runaway slave than of one who practices immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and greed which amounts idolatry (Col.3:5‑7).
Again it must be seen that psychology is employed in the phrase, “accept him as you would me.” How could Philemon hold anything against Paul, or enslave him? The argument against slavery is amazingly strong though not once directly condemned But then again, isn’t subtlety a psychological approach?
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