The Ten Minute Bible Hour Podcast

PLMN058 - I Think Nero Would Have Killed Paul if Paul Hadn’t Sent Onesimus Back to Philemon

Jan 7, 2026
Explore a gripping what-if scenario where Paul's decision to send Onesimus back could have changed everything. Imagine the risk he took, potentially facing execution for harboring a runaway slave. Delve into how an earlier death would mean the loss of vital writings and ministries that shaped Christianity. Discover the significance of Paul’s travels post-release and his role in reinforcing Christianity in Western Europe. The stakes were monumental, with implications stretching far into history and faith.
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INSIGHT

Onesimus Decision Threatened Paul's Life

  • Paul risked execution for harboring Onesimus and could have died years earlier if charges stuck.
  • That decision influenced which New Testament letters were written and preserved.
INSIGHT

Whole Epistles Hinged On One Choice

  • If Paul had died then we'd lose several Pauline letters including Ephesians and Philippians.
  • Philemon itself wouldn't exist because it depends on Paul's decision to send Onesimus back.
ANECDOTE

Alien Thought Experiment On Bible Importance

  • Matt imagines aliens forcing him to drop a book of the Bible to show relative importance.
  • He uses that scenario to argue some books matter more for historical influence than others.
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