Paul on Slavery

The way that Paul addresses the issue of slavery in Philemon is unique and somewhat puzzling. His avoidance of directly addressing the issue complicates the situation, as does the amount of ambiguity within the text of the letter. However, when thoroughly examining the letter to Philemon, one can at least make some assumptions as to Paul’s views on slavery.

From the context of the letter, one can see that Onesimus is most likely a runaway slave, as Paul addresses Philemon regarding the situation of Philemon and Onesimus’ “separation” (v. 15. NRSV). Paul artfully suggests to Philemon that he should now view Onesimus as a “brother,” (v. 16. NRSV) and refers to Onesimus as becoming his own son during his, that being Paul’s, imprisonment. He asks that Philemon welcome Onesimus in the same way that Philemon would welcome him (v. 17. NRSV)., and that all wrongs committed by Onesimus be attributed to himself. (v. 18. NRSV) Throughout the letter, one can see the artistry as Paul never actually commands anything, but simply suggests strongly, almost taking an authoritative tone.

So while making a very lengthy statement about the situation, Paul ultimate gives no definite answer. One can assume from the letter that Paul really does not like the idea of slavery, but also does not advocate any form of civil disobedience, unless that disobedience is directly related to the practicing of one’s faith. Considering that slavery does not affect the practicing of one’s faith from Paul’s point of view, it appears that Paul would not tell Onesimus that his disobedience was acceptable. However, he does do all in his power to suggest to Philemon that Onesimus should be freed. But Paul’s exact views on slavery will probably never be known, due to the fact that he side-steps the issue in nearly every situation where it could be discussed.