Philemon 1:14

Translations

Modern

But I did not want to do anything without your consent, so that your goodness will not be out of compulsion, but by your own free will.

Traditional

But without thy mind would I do nothing; that thy benefit should not be as it were of necessity, but willingly.

Literal

But apart from your consent I wanted to do nothing, so that your good may be not as according to necessity, but according to willingness.

Latin

…sine consilio autem tuo nihil volui facere, uti ne velut ex necessitate bonum tuum esset, sed voluntarium.

Original

Greek

English

But I did not want to do anything without your consent, so that your goodness will not be out of compulsion, but by your own free will.

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

2 Corinthians 9:7
Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not out of regret or compulsion. For God loves a cheerful giver.
1 Chronicles 29:17
I know, my God, that You test the heart and delight in uprightness. All these things I have given willingly and with an upright heart, and now I have seen Your people who are present here giving joyfully and willingly to You.
1 Peter 5:2–3
Be shepherds of God’s flock that is among you, watching over them not out of compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not out of greed, but out of eagerness;
1 Corinthians 9:17
If my preaching is voluntary, I have a reward. But if it is not voluntary, I am still entrusted with a responsibility.
Philemon 1:8–9
So although in Christ I am bold enough to order you to do what is proper,
2 Corinthians 9:5
So I thought it necessary to urge the brothers to visit you beforehand and make arrangements for the generous gift you had promised. This way, your gift will be prepared generously and not begrudgingly.
2 Corinthians 8:12
For if the eagerness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what he does not have.
Psalm 110:3
Your people shall be willing on Your day of battle. Arrayed in holy splendor, from the womb of the dawn, to You belongs the dew of Your youth.
2 Corinthians 1:24
Not that we lord it over your faith, but we are fellow workers with you for your joy, because it is by faith that you stand firm.

Glossary

Freedom, Liberty Letter to Philemon

Topics

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

Philemon 1:14

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