Paul’s letter to Philemon is his most personal surviving epistle, yet it was intended to be read publicly within the church that met in Philemon’s home. Writing on behalf of Onesimus, a runaway slave who had been converted through Paul’s ministry, the apostle appeals with remarkable tact and grace for reconciliation grounded in Christian brotherhood. Beneath the gentle tone lies a quiet expectation that Philemon will respond with generosity beyond what is explicitly requested.