✝️ New Testament
Medium
How does the apostle Paul's appeal to Philemon regarding Onesimus challenge or subvert the social norms and legal practices concerning slavery in the Roman Empire?
A
Paul explicitly condemns the institution of slavery and demands Philemon's immediate obedience to manumit Onesimus.
B
Paul strategically uses the language of kinship and brotherhood in Christ to appeal to Philemon's conscience, gently urging him to receive Onesimus as a beloved brother rather than a mere slave, thus challenging the dehumanizing aspects of slavery without directly attacking its legality.
C
Paul emphasizes Philemon's legal right to punish Onesimus as a runaway slave, but encourages him to show mercy to avoid legal repercussions from the Roman authorities.
D
Paul offers to financially compensate Philemon for the loss of Onesimus's labor, essentially buying Onesimus's freedom through a financial transaction, thus reinforcing the economic aspects of slavery.
Reference: Philemon 1:8-20