For we have great joy and comfort in your love, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed by you, brother.

I beseech you for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten in my bonds,

who, for some time, has been unprofitable to you, but now is very profitable to you and to me:

I did wish to keep him with me, that, in your stead, he might serve me in my bonds for the gospel;

but, without your consent, I was not willing to do any thing, that your good deed might not be as a matter of necessity, but one of free-will.

Perhaps, indeed, lie departed for a short time for this reason, that you might receive him forever;

At the same time, also, prepare me a lodging: for I hope that through the prayers of you all, I may be given to you.