I beseech thee for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten in my bonds, who in time past was to thee unprofitable, but now is profitable to thee and to me, whom I send again unto thee; therefore, receive him, as you would receive me. read more.
I desired to retain him with me, that in thy stead he might have ministered unto me in the bonds of the gospel, but I did not want to do anything without thy counsel, that thy benefit should not be as it were of necessity, but willingly. Perhaps for this, he departed from you for a season, that thou should have him again forever, not now as a slave, but above a slave, a brother beloved, especially to me, but how much more unto thee, both in the flesh, and in the Lord. If thou count me therefore a partner, receive him as myself. If he has wronged thee or owes thee anything, put that on my account; I Paul have written it with my own hand, I will repay it; albeit I do not say to thee how thou owest unto me even thine own self besides. Therefore, brother, let me have joy of thee in the Lord, that thou might refresh my heart in the Lord. Having confidence in thy obedience, I have written unto thee, knowing that thou wilt also do more than I say.