Philemon 1:8-22 - An Appeal For Onesimus

⁸ Wherefore, tho' I have a right by virtue of my character, to prescribe what is fit: ⁹ I had rather apply to your benevolent temper, and desire you would regard the years of Paul, who am now also a prisoner for Jesus Christ, ¹⁰ and intercede with you for my son Onesimus, whom I made a convert whilst I was in chains. ¹¹ 'tis true he was formerly useless to you, but now he will be useful to us both: ¹² I have sent him back, therefore receive him as one that I tenderly love. ¹³ I would have kept him with me, to assist me in your stead during my confinement for the gospel. ¹⁴ but I would not do any thing without your consent; that your benefaction might not appear any ways forc'd, but perfectly voluntary. ¹⁵ perhaps he quitted you for a while, to be yours for ever after: ¹⁶ not as a slave, but in another quality, as a dear brother whom I particularly value, but much more should you, both as he is your servant, and as he is a christian.

¹⁷ I beg you therefore by the common ties of friendship to receive him as you would myself. ¹⁸ if he has wrong'd you, or is indebted to you, place that to my account. ¹⁹ I Paul give it under my own hand, I will repay it; not to say, that you owe your very self to me. ²⁰ for the Lord's sake, brother, let me have this satisfaction: refresh my heart for his sake. ²¹ I writ this upon the presumption of your compliance, being persuaded that you will even do more than I mention. ²² pray at the same time prepare me a lodging: for I trust that through your prayers I shall be restored to you.