Onesimus arrives at the home of his master, Philemon, in Colossae, bringing him a letter from the apostle Paul, who is under house arrest in Rome. Sometime earlier, Onesimus had run away to Rome, where he became a Christian because of his contact with Paul. Learning of Onesimus’ situation, Paul encouraged him to return to Philemon. Onesimus may have wondered what treatment to expect because Philemon may have had the legal right to mete out severe punishment. In his letter to Philemon, Paul appeals to him to receive Onesimus kindly, not just as a slave but as a Christian brother. (Phm 15-17) Paul also expresses his confidence that Philemon will comply. (Phm 21) The letter harmonizes with the rest of the Christian Greek Scriptures, which contain many exhortations to all Christians to treat one another as brothers—regardless of wealth or social position.—Ro 12:10; 1Co 16:20; Col 4:15; 1Th 4:9, 10.

Slavery was part of everyday life in the Roman Empire. Roman law regulated certain aspects of the relationship between slaves and their masters. Slaves performed much of the work in the homes of wealthy families occupying the territories of the Roman Empire. Slaves cooked, cleaned, and cared for children. Other slaves worked in factories, in mines, or on farms. Those who were better educated served as doctors, teachers, or secretaries. In fact, slaves worked at every occupation except in the military. In some cases, slaves could be emancipated. (See Glossary, “Freeman; Freedman.”) First-century Christians did not take a stand against governmental authority in this matter, nor did they advocate that slaves revolt. (1Co 7:21) Christians respected the legal right of others, including fellow Christians, to own slaves. That is why the apostle Paul sent the slave Onesimus back to his master, Philemon. Because Onesimus had become a Christian, he willingly returned to his master, subjecting himself as a slave to a fellow Christian. (Phm 10-17) Paul encouraged slaves to work honestly and diligently.—Tit 2:9, 10.