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a friend: The Greek word here rendered “a friend” literally means “a sharer.” Paul never refers to himself as an apostle in this letter. Rather, he puts himself on the same level as Philemon by using this term that could also be rendered “a companion; a partner.” The word conveys the idea of fellowship, and it was used of business partners. (Lu 5:10; 2Co 8:23; 1Pe 5:1) In this context, however, it conveys more warmth. One reference work describes the close bond between Paul and Philemon this way: “Their ‘fellowship’ . . . is grounded in their belonging to one Lord. This deeply binding relationship draws them together into common activities, in faith and love.” It is also worth noting that the ancient Greek author Aristotle used this term to define what a friend is, saying: “A friend is a sharer.”

receive him kindly: Paul showed great confidence in Philemon. At that time, some slave owners punished disobedient slaves by flogging, branding, or even killing them​—if only to maintain order among other slaves in the household.