Philemon 1:6
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Philemon 1:6
6 That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus.
Chapter Context
Philemon 1 is a personal epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of faith, prayer, grace. Written during Paul's Roman imprisonment (c. 60-62 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Roman slavery was addressed through Christian principles without direct confrontation.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-25: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Philemon and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Philemon 1:6
6 That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus.
Analysis
That the communication of thy faith may become effectual—ὅπως ἡ κοινωνία τῆς πίστεώς σου (hopōs hē koinōnia tēs pisteōs sou, that the fellowship/sharing of your faith) ἐνεργὴς γένηται (energēs genētai, may become effective/operative). κοινωνία (koinonia, fellowship/partnership/sharing) is rich term: participation, communion, generosity. τῆς πίστεώς (tēs pisteōs, of faith) could be objective genitive (faith's outworking) or subjective (faith you possess). ἐνεργής (energēs, effective/active/working) suggests visible, tangible fruit.
By the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus (ἐν ἐπιγνώσει παντὸς ἀγαθοῦ τοῦ ἐν ἡμῖν εἰς Χριστόν, en epignōsei pantos agathou tou en hēmin eis Christon)—ἐπίγνωσις (epignōsis, full knowledge/recognition) of παντὸς ἀγαθοῦ (pantos agathou, every good thing) εἰς Χριστόν (eis Christon, unto/toward Christ). Effectual faith recognizes gospel resources already possessed, then deploys them. Paul hints: Philemon has "every good thing" needed to forgive Onesimus—use them!
Historical Context
Greek philosophy prized ἐπίγνωσις (epignōsis, knowledge), but Paul redefines it as practical recognition producing action. Gnostic tendencies divorced knowledge from ethics; Paul insists true knowledge produces transformation. The prepositional phrase εἰς Χριστόν (eis Christon, toward/into Christ) indicates all good things aim Christward—forgiving Onesimus glorifies Christ, making the gospel attractive to watching pagans.
Reflection
- Is your faith's "communication" (fellowship/sharing) effective and visible, or merely private and theoretical?
- Do you recognize "every good thing" Christ has given you—gifts, resources, graces—or focus on what you lack?
- How can acknowledging your spiritual resources in Christ empower you to love difficult people like Onesimus?
Word Studies
- Faith: πίστις (Pistis) G4102 - Faith, belief, trust
Cross-References
- References Jesus: 2 Peter 1:8
- Good: Matthew 5:16
- Parallel theme: Colossians 1:9