Special Event – Summer Series; More Than a Slave: A Study of Philemon: Dr. Todd D. Still, 06/28/26

In this first session of the Summer Series, guest teacher Dr. Todd Still dives deep into Paul’s shortest preserved letter — Philemon. Explore the historical context of Colossae, the identity of Onesimus (whose name means “useful”), and Paul’s masterful appeal for reconciliation between a slave owner and his slave-turned-brother in Christ.

Discover how this 335-word letter speaks to human dignity, the transformative power of the gospel, and the ministry of hospitality, themes as relevant today as they were in the first century.

Topics covered:

• Historical background of Colossae and the Lycus River Valley

• Authorship and dating of Philemon among Paul’s prison epistles

• Word study: Onesimus (“useful”) and splagchna (metaphorical term for your inner most being)

• Paul’s rhetorical strategy of appeal over command

• Martin Luther’s reflection on Philemon as a picture of the gospel

• Application: dignity, hospitality, and reconciliation today

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