The Apostle Paul and Onesimus: A Complex Dialogue on Slavery in Early Christianity

One of the most compelling and often debated passages in the Bible is the letter of Paul to Philemon regarding a runaway slave named Onesimus. This text provides a window into the socio-political complexities of early Christianity and the relationship between Christians and societal structures of their time. Paul's entreaty to Philemon highlights the tension between Christian values and the frameworks of Roman law and society.

Understanding Paul's Role and Context

Paul was not commissioned by Christ to overturn unjust social institutions. In Acts 9:3–9, we see that his primary mission was to spread the gospel and bring people into a relationship with God, not to dismantle societal structures (such as slavery) from the outset. Philemon, a prominent Christian in the early Church, was legally and socially bound to regard Onesimus as his property under Roman law.

Paul's Strategy: A Call to Ethical Behavior

Paul's instruction to Philemon aimed at fostering a more compassionate and ethical relationship. In Philemon 1:16, he writes, “no longer as a slave but better than a slave, a brother, beloved specially to me but more so to you, in the flesh dearer still.” This statement does not imply that Paul freed Onesimus, but rather that he should now be seen and treated as an equal brother in the eyes of Christ.

Paul's letter does not pressure Philemon to free Onesimus but instead urges him to take Onesimus back and treat him with kindness and mercy. In Philemon 1:17, Paul emphasizes, “welcome him as you would welcome me.” This call reflects the expectation that Christians should extend mercy and compassion, as God has done for them.

The Philosophical and Practical Implications

While Onesimus could have chosen to run away and avoid the consequences of His situation, a more mature and spiritually enlightened choice was to return to Philemon and trust in the merciful intervention of God. Paul's appeal to Philemon was multifaceted. He called Philemon to remember the mercy shown to him by God, and to extend similar grace to Onesimus, reflecting the principle of the Christian covenant.

Slavery in Ancient Roman Society

Slavery in ancient Roman society was not an absolute condition devoid of any legal or ethical constraints. While there were variations in the rights and treatment of different types of slaves, the Roman legal system did provide some protections against harsh treatment, including the ability to sue owners for abuses. However, the act of running away was akin to desertion in the modern workplace, which was severely discouraged and punishable. Runaway slaves were considered fugitives and faced significant risks.

Respect for Legal and Ethical Expectations

Although returning Onesimus to Philemon might appear to signal the continuation of an unjust system, it was, in fact, the safe, legal, and ethical path. It mirrored the principle of mutual respect and care that was expected within Christian communities. It was also a demonstration of integrity; a slave does not forfeit their moral obligations by virtue of their status. Similarly, a master was expected to treat their slaves justly and with respect, according to Christian values.

Neither Paul's concern nor any Christian rhetoric was necessary to affirm this. It was a matter of adhering to the ethical expectations of both parties within the bounds of their respective roles and the legal framework of their time.

Conclusion

The interaction between Paul, Philemon, and Onesimus is a prime example of the ongoing struggle between Christian ideals and the societal norms of the time. While it may not have resolved the issue of slavery outright, it set a precedence for the ethical treatment of slaves and the extension of mercy and grace within the Christian community. The case of Onesimus and Philemon serves as a reminder that Christian ethics are not about the abolition of all social institutions but about the transformation of the individual and their relationships to align with the love and grace of Christ.

Keywords: slavery in early christianity, paul's letter to philemon, run away slave