The answer is: Paul

v1 - written by Paul, with the help of Timothy.

The letter to Philemon, an intriguing piece from the New Testament, showcases the personal correspondence between Paul and a fellow Christian leader. Notably, Paul pens this letter while in prison, demonstrating his unwavering spirit amid adversity. The inclusion of Timothy in the greeting signals the close-knit Christian community—that both apostles were deeply involved in nurturing the faith of others.

One fun trivia tidbit: Philemon is the shortest of Paul’s letters, easily fitting on a single scroll. However, its brevity doesn’t diminish its significance! This epistle addresses a critical cultural moment regarding slavery in the Roman Empire. Philemon, a wealthy landowner, is urged by Paul to accept back Onesimus, a runaway slave who had become a Christian. Paul strikes a deeply compassionate tone, emphasizing themes of love, forgiveness, and transforming relationships. It's interesting how Paul appeals to Philemon not just on a social level, but as a brother in Christ, suggesting that faith can revolutionize personal dynamics.

Additionally, Philemon’s story subtly hints at the wider message of equality among believers, foreshadowing later discussions about social justice in religious communities. While those earlier relationships were complicated, this short letter heralds the important themes of reconciliation—an enduring lesson across the millennia about the power of love and the practice of treating each other as equals in the eyes of the divine.