No Longer a Slave (Philemon 1:13-17)

This study was done using the Amplified Bible, which I don't have permission to publish, so I will replace the verses here with the World English Bible (a modernized version of the ASV).  Because of that some of the comments may not totally make sense because the AMP has expanded explanations.  I would highly recommend going to a site like BibleGateway.com where you can read the AMP version for free.

13 whom I desired to keep with me, that on your behalf he might serve me in my chains for the Good News. 

A.  Onesimus was such a blessing to Paul that he wanted to continue in their fellowship together.  Paul however, even as the powerful apostle chose to ask permission from Philemon, showing a respect most leaders in the church today do not show.  Paul had a greater position and right, but he chose the humble road.  Most ministers today take the position of power to mean they now have full right to command and demand whatever they want from those under them.  This is a fleshly viewpoint that Jesus spoke against when he said his disciples are not to Lord over one another.  

B.  Ministering in behalf of Philemon is yet another blessing Paul wanted to allow, and wanted for Philemon.  Allowing Onesimus to minister on his behalf would have been a credit to him, and is another nod toward how the slave would have been profitable in a spiritual way to both of them.

14 But I was willing to do nothing without your consent, that your goodness would not be as of necessity, but of free will. 

A.   Paul clarifies that he wanted the permission of Philemon, and that he wanted Philemon to be a cheerful giver.  This is the same principal taught in anther place that not only are we expected to give, but that God loves a cheerful giver.

15 For perhaps he was therefore separated from you for a while, that you would have him forever, 

A.  The word purpose is a highlight word which Paul uses to express the sovereignty of the Holy Spirit.  What at have appeared to be an act of rebellion by Onesimus was perhaps orchestrated by the Holy Spirit to bring the slave to His feet.  

B.  To receive him back forever not as a slave but as a brother.  Not just for their time on earth but for the citizenship of heaven as well.

16 no longer as a slave, but more than a slave, a beloved brother, especially to me, but how much rather to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord.

A.  No longer as a slave.  Freedom is always God's ultimate goal for His people, both spiritually and physically.

B.  One wonders why this relationship between Paul and Onesimus was so profound.  Very little is known about the runaway, but clearly he meant a great deal to the apostle.  It must have been a sacrifice for both of them to write Philemon and ask for the freedom of his friend, knowing that Philemon could have said no, a fact we don't actually know.  
     The humility of Paul is very impressive.  He could have kept Onesimus a secret from Philemon.  Without technology it could have been quite easy to hide him and avoid Philemon.  Instead the apostle chooses the right move and shows his righteous character.

17 If then you count me a partner, receive him as you would receive me. 

A.  A partner, not simply a close acquaintance or fellow church member, but some Philemon has toiled with.