Philemon 1:13

Translations

Modern

I would have liked to keep him with me, so that on your behalf he could minister to me in my chains for the gospel.

Traditional

Whom I would have retained with me, that in thy stead he might have ministered unto me in the bonds of the gospel:

Literal

…whom I was wishing to keep with myself, so that on behalf of you he might minister to me in the chains of the gospel.

Latin

…quem ego volueram mecum detinere, ut pro te mihi ministraret in vinculis Evangelii:

Original

Greek

English

I would have liked to keep him with me, so that on your behalf he could minister to me in my chains for the gospel.

Notes

Philemon 1:13–14

Paul suggests that he wants Philemon to decide to free Onesimus so he can help Paul (also 1:21). The Christian life is a voluntary response to God's grace (Romans 12:1; Ephesians 4:1; Colossians 3:12–13).

Theme notes and profiles

Paul (Saul) Slavery

Related verses

Philippians 1:7
It is right for me to feel this way about all of you, since I have you in my heart. For in my chains and in my defense and confirmation of the gospel, you are all partners in grace with me.
Ephesians 3:1
For this reason I, Paul, the prisoner of Christ Jesus for the sake of you Gentiles...
1 Corinthians 16:17
I am glad that Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus have arrived, because they have supplied what was lacking from you.
Philippians 2:30
…because he nearly died for the work of Christ, risking his life to make up for your deficit of service to me.
Philemon 1:1
Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus, and Timothy our brother, To Philemon our beloved fellow worker,
Ephesians 4:1
As a prisoner in the Lord, then, I urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling you have received:

Glossary

Bond, Bondage Freedom, Liberty Letter to Philemon

Topics

Forgiveness of Enemies Intercession: Paul for Onesimus Love of Man for Man Master: Scriptures Relating to Masters of Serv Ants Unselfishness: Philemon

Philemon 1:13

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