I thank my God, making mention of thee always in my prayers, (Hearing of thy faith which thou hast toward the Lord Jesus,

toward all saints) That the communication of thy faith may become effectual, by the acknowledgment of every good thing which is in you through Christ Jesus.

I beseech thee for my son, whom I have begotten in my bonds, Onesimus, Who was formerly unprofitable to thee,

but now profitable to thee and me, Whom I have sent again:

thou therefore receive him, that is my own bowels:

Whom I would have retained with me, to serve me in thy stead, in the bonds of the gospel.

No longer as a servant, but above a servant, a brother beloved, especially to me; and how much more to thee, both in the flesh and in the Lord?

If therefore thou accountest me a partner, receive him as myself.

If he hath wronged thee, or oweth thee any thing, put that to my account.

I Paul have written with my own hand; I will repay it; not to say unto thee, that thou owest also thyself to me besides.

Yea, brother, let me have joy of thee in the Lord: refresh my bowels in Christ.

Withal prepare me also a lodging; for I trust I shall be given to you through your prayers.

Epaphras my fellow-prisoner in Christ Jesus saluteth you,

Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, Luke, my fellow-labourers.