hearing of your love, and of the faith which you have toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all the saints;

That the faith which you have in common with them may be working with power, in the knowledge of every good thing in you, for Christ.

For I have much joy and comfort in your love, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you, brother.

Therefore, though I have all boldness in Christ to command you that which is appropriate,

I beg you for my child, whom I have become the father of in my chains, Onesimus,

who was formerly unprofitable to thee, but now profitable both to thee and to me; whom I have sent back to thee:

whom I have sent back to thee in his own person, that is, my very heart:

whom I would fain have kept with me, that in thy behalf he might minister unto me in the bonds of the gospel:

but I do not wish to do anything without your consent, so that your kindness might be voluntary, and not have the appearance of compulsion.

For perhaps he was therefore separated from you for a while, that you would have him forever,

If then you have me as a partner, receive him as me.

If he have hurt thee or oweth thee ought, that lay to my charge.

I, Paul, have written it with mine own hand. I will recompense it. So that I do not say to thee how that thou owest unto me even thine own self.

Yes, brother, let me have joy from you in the Lord. Refresh my heart in Christ.

Because I am thoroughly persuaded of your obedience, I have written you, knowing full well that you will do by me what I am asking.

And have a guest-room ready for me, too, for I hope that through your prayers I shall have the gracious privilege of coming to you.