because I continue to hear of the love and faith you have in the Lord Jesus and all His people,

Yes, I have felt great joy and encouragement over your love, because the hearts of God's people have been refreshed by you, my brother.

So, although through union with Christ I have full freedom to order you to do your duty,

yes, I appeal to you for my child Onesimus, whose father I have become while wearing these chains.

I would have liked to keep him with me, to wait on me in your stead while I wear these chains for the good news,

For perhaps it was for this reason that he was parted from you for a while, that you might have him back forever,

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.