ACC ~ Philemon 1 v2c

WHO IS INCLUDED? CHRYSOSTOM: Here Paul has not omitted even the slaves. For he knew that often even the words of slaves have power to turn around their master. This is especially true when his request was in behalf of a slave. HOMILIES ON PHILEMON 1.

THEODORE OF MOPSUESTIA: While keeping the social order here, Paul does not call some indiscriminate multitude “the church,” but only those who are bound together in faith. This bond sets the frame for Paul’s appeal in the letter. COMMENTARY ON PHILEMON.

Philem