[8-9] Paul understands that he is being bold in his request. He writes a plea to Philemon on behalf of Onesimus, Philemon's runaway slave. Because of the great love they have for one another, Paul makes no demands of Philemon but prefers to simply ask him a favor.
[10-12] Paul asks Philemon to show kindness to Onesimus. Paul refers to Onesimus as [my child]. Not because he is born of Paul but because Paul is Onesimus' father in the faith. Paul had the privilege of leading Onesimus to Jesus Christ. Paul wants Philemon to understand that because of Onesimus' conversion he is very useful to them both. In the past Onesimus may have been a slacker... lacking zeal to work or care for the needs of his master. But now that he is a believer in Jesus, he is of great use to the kingdom of God.
