Philemon 1 : 1 (NLV)
This letter is from Paul. I am in prison because of Jesus Christ. Brother Timothy is also writing to you, Philemon. You are a much-loved workman together with us.
Philemon 1 : 2 (NLV)
We are also writing to the church that meets in your home. This letter is also for our Christian sister Apphia and it is for Archippus who is a soldier together with us.
Philemon 1 : 3 (NLV)
May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you His loving-favor and peace.
Philemon 1 : 4 (NLV)
I always thank God when I speak of you in my prayers.
Philemon 1 : 5 (NLV)
It is because I hear of your love and trust in the Lord Jesus and in all the Christians.
Philemon 1 : 6 (NLV)
I pray that our faith together will help you know all the good things you have through Christ Jesus.
Philemon 1 : 7 (NLV)
Your love has given me much joy and comfort. The hearts of the Christians have been made happy by you, Christian brother.
Philemon 1 : 8 (NLV)
So now, through Christ, I am free to tell you what you must do.
Philemon 1 : 9 (NLV)
But because I love you, I will only ask you. I am Paul, an old man, here in prison because of Jesus Christ.
Philemon 1 : 10 (NLV)
I am asking you for my son, Onesimus. He has become my son in the Christian life while I have been here in prison.
Philemon 1 : 11 (NLV)
At one time he was of no use to you. But now he is of use to you and to me.
Philemon 1 : 12 (NLV)
I am sending him back to you. It is like sending you my own heart.
Philemon 1 : 13 (NLV)
I would like to keep him with me. He could have helped me in your place while I am in prison for preaching the Good News.
Philemon 1 : 14 (NLV)
But I did not want to keep him without word from you. I did not want you to be kind to me because you had to but because you wanted to.
Philemon 1 : 15 (NLV)
He ran away from you for awhile. But now he is yours forever.
Philemon 1 : 16 (NLV)
Do not think of him any longer as a servant you own. He is more than that to you. He is a much-loved Christian brother to you and to me.
Philemon 1 : 17 (NLV)
If you think of me as a true friend, take him back as you would take me.
Philemon 1 : 18 (NLV)
If he has done anything wrong or owes you anything, send me the bill.
Philemon 1 : 19 (NLV)
I will pay it. I, Paul, am writing this with my own hand. I will not talk about how much you owe me because you owe me your life.
Philemon 1 : 20 (NLV)
Yes, Christian brother, I want you to be of use to me as a Christian. Give my heart new joy in Christ.
Philemon 1 : 21 (NLV)
I write this letter knowing you will do what I ask and even more.
Philemon 1 : 22 (NLV)
Please have a room ready for me. I trust God will answer your prayers and let me come to you soon.
Philemon 1 : 23 (NLV)
Epaphras greets you. He is a brother in Christ in prison with me.
Philemon 1 : 24 (NLV)
Mark and Aristarchus and Demas and Luke who are workers with me greet you.
Philemon 1 : 25 (NLV)
May the loving-favor of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.

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