The First Christian Slave
- 136 pages
- 5 hours of reading
Onesimus, a silent slave in the letter to Philemon, serves as a focal point for examining themes of agency and conversion in early Christianity. This study explores whether he was a fugitive and Paul's intentions regarding his return to Philemon, questioning whether acceptance, return, or manumission was intended. By analyzing early Christian slavery, Roman societal norms, and African-American narratives, the research reconstructs Onesimus's perspective, emphasizing his personal motives and aspirations in seeking a relationship with Paul.