Phile 21 | RWP | e4.org | Obedience ( υπακοη ). "Compliance" seems less harsh to us in the light of . I write ( εγραψα ). Epistolary aorist again. Even beyond what I say ( κα υπερ α λεγω ). That can only mean that Paul "knows" ( ειδως , second perfect active participle of οιδα ) that Philemon will set Onesimus free. He prefers that it come as Philemon's idea and wish rather than as a command from Paul. Paul has been criticized for not denouncing slavery in plain terms. But, when one considers the actual conditions in the Roman empire, he is a wise man who can suggest a better plan than the one pursued here for the ultimate overthrow of slavery.

‏ Philemon 21

Obedience ( υπακοη ). "Compliance" seems less harsh to us in the light of 9.

I write ( εγραψα ). Epistolary aorist again.

Even beyond what I say ( κα υπερ α λεγω ). That can only mean that Paul "knows" ( ειδως, second perfect active participle of οιδα ) that Philemon will set Onesimus free. He prefers that it come as Philemon's idea and wish rather than as a command from Paul. Paul has been criticized for not denouncing slavery in plain terms. But, when one considers the actual conditions in the Roman empire, he is a wise man who can suggest a better plan than the one pursued here for the ultimate overthrow of slavery.