Philemon 1:11

Which in time past was to thee unprofitable, but now profitable to thee and to me:

Philemon 1:11 (KJV)

Context

The Book of Philemon is a short letter written by the apostle Paul to Philemon, a believer and slave owner. Paul wrote this letter while he was in prison, and it focuses on the theme of reconciliation and Christian love.

In the ancient Roman society, slavery was a common practice. Philemon owned a slave named Onesimus who had run away from him and ended up meeting Paul while he was in prison. Through Paul’s influence, Onesimus became a Christian.

Meaning

In verse 11, Paul refers to Onesimus as being “unprofitable” to Philemon in the past. This term likely indicates that Onesimus was an unproductive or disobedient slave before his conversion to Christianity. The name Onesimus means “profitable” or “useful,” and Paul likely alludes to this, noting that Onesimus now lives up to his name.

However, Paul goes on to say that now Onesimus is “profitable” to both Philemon and Paul. This transformation is a result of Onesimus’ conversion and the change that took place in his life through his faith in Christ. The change is attributed to conversion: grace makes a person useful. Unsanctified persons are unprofitable; they do not fulfill the purpose of their being, but conversion makes them good for something.

Biblical connections

The key message of this verse is the transformation that occurs in a person’s life when they come to faith in Christ. Onesimus, once unprofitable, has now become useful and beneficial to Philemon. This change is not merely in terms of his productivity as a slave but also in his character and spiritual growth. The verse also implies that true repentance is evidenced by returning to neglected duties; Onesimus, having repented, is willing to return to his master.

Application

This verse encourages us to consider the transformative power of the Gospel in our own lives and the lives of others. Just as Onesimus experienced a radical change, we too can experience a transformation when we surrender our lives to Christ. Our past mistakes, shortcomings, and unprofitable ways can be redeemed and turned into something valuable and beneficial for God’s kingdom.

• Reconciliation and forgiveness: The letter of Philemon also emphasizes the importance of reconciliation and forgiveness. Paul sends Onesimus back to Philemon, appealing for him to receive his former slave not as a mere servant but as a beloved brother in Christ. This demonstrates the power of forgiveness and the unity that exists among believers in Christ.

Reflection

Philemon 1:11 reminds us of the transformative power of the Gospel and the change that occurs in our lives when we surrender to Christ. It encourages us to extend forgiveness, seek reconciliation, and recognize the inherent value and worth of every individual in the eyes of God.