✝️ New Testament
Medium
How does the Apostle Paul's appeal to Philemon regarding Onesimus challenge or subvert the social norms and legal structures of the Roman Empire concerning slavery?
A
Paul explicitly calls for a violent uprising against the institution of slavery, advocating for the immediate liberation of all slaves.
B
Paul appeals to Philemon on the basis of Christian brotherhood, urging him to receive Onesimus not merely as a slave, but as a beloved brother in Christ, thereby undermining the dehumanizing aspects of slavery within the Christian community, though not directly abolishing the legal institution.
C
Paul argues that Onesimus, being a Christian, is exempt from Roman law and therefore cannot be held as a slave.
D
Paul offers to purchase Onesimus from Philemon at a fair market price, thus reinforcing the economic value of slaves.
Reference: Philemon 1:8-20