Philemon isn’t the only one to whom Paul’s is writing his letter. Apphia, Archippus, and the church that meets in Philemon’s house are also addressed as co-recipients of the letter. Paul calls Apphia “our sister” and Archippus “our fellow soldier” (Phm. 2). Some have wondered whether this “sister” and “fellow soldier” are Philemon’s wife and son but there is no evidence to support such an identification. Probably they are, like Philemon, prominent members of the Colossian church (see Colossians 4.17 where Archippus is told to complete his assigned task in the Lord).
What is really of interest is that Paul’s letter to Philemon is also letter to the whole church! Paul wants Philemon, as a believer and especially as a church leader, to know that the subject of the letter is not merely a personal matter. Thus, Apphia, Archippus and the entire church will be witnesses to whatever request Paul might make of Philemon. And they will also witness Philemon’s response to Paul’s request!
Apphia, Archippus, and the church are the on-scene witnesses to Philemon’s response to Paul’s request. But the letter also identifies five others who will be witnesses from-a-distance to Philemon’s decision.
Who are they?
The Philemon Files — Related Posts:
The Philemon Files: Introduction
The Philemon Files: From Paul
The Philemon Files: Co-Senders
