Philemon 1:8-22 - An Appeal For Onesimus

⁸ Wherefore, having great boldness to command you what is fit, ⁹ on account of love I rather request; being such as Paul the aged, and now also a prisoner of Christ Jesus, ¹⁰ I request you for my son Onesimus, whom I obtained in my bonds, ¹¹ who was formerly not useful to you but is now most useful to you and me, ¹² whom I have sent back. And do you receive him, that is, my soul, ¹³ whom I should like to retain for myself, that he might serve me for you in the bonds of the gospel, ¹⁴ but without your consent I will do nothing, that your service may not be compulsory but voluntary; ¹⁵ for perhaps he has been separated from you for a time that you may have him back forever, ¹⁶ no longer as a servant, but above a servant, a brother beloved, especially to me, but how much more to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord.

¹⁷ If therefore you regard me as a friend receive him as myself. ¹⁸ If he injured you, or owes you any thing, set it to my account. ¹⁹ I, Paul, have written with my hand; I will pay; not to tell you that you owe yourself to me. ²⁰ Yes, brother, let me be profited by you in the Lord; refresh my soul in Christ. ²¹ I have written to you, having confidence in your obedience, knowing that you will do even more than I say. ²² But at the same time also prepare me a lodging; for I hope that through your prayers I shall be given to you.