What is the central issue of Philemon?

• A. A personal appeal for forgiveness and reconciliation of Onesimus, a former slave, to his master Philemon.
• B. A doctrinal dispute between churches.
• C. A plan to appoint a new bishop.
• D. A tax collection strategy.

Answer: (A)

The main idea is reconciliation in the Christian community: Paul urges Philemon to forgive Onesimus and receive him back not as a slave but as a beloved brother in Christ. Onesimus had been a slave who fled from Philemon, met Paul, and became a Christian. Paul sends him back with a plea that Philemon would welcome him as family, even cancel any debt and treat him as Paul would treat him. This shows how the gospel breaks down social barriers and calls for restoration and unity within the church. The other options don’t fit because the letter isn’t about doctrinal disputes, church leadership appointments, or tax strategies; it focuses on applying the gospel to personal relationships and the process of reconciliation.