Philemon 1:1-9 ▼

1 Paul (humble), a prisoner of Christ (the Anointed One) Jesus (YHWH saves), and Timothy (honoring God) our brother, To Philemon (affectionate) our beloved {agapētō} fellow worker,

2 to Apphia (increasing) our sister, to Archippus our fellow soldier, and to the church {ekklēsia} that meets at your house:

3 Grace and peace to you⁺ from God {Theou} our Father and the Lord {Kyriou} Jesus (YHWH saves) Christ (the Anointed One).

4 I always thank my God {Theō}, remembering you in my prayers,

5 because I hear about your faith in the Lord {Kyrion} Jesus (YHWH saves) and your love {agapēn} for all the saints (holy ones).

6 I pray that your partnership {koinōnia} in the faith may become effective as you fully acknowledge every good thing that is ours in Christ (the Anointed One).

7 I take great joy and encouragement in your love {agapē}, because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the saints (holy ones).

8 So although in Christ (the Anointed One) I am bold enough to order you to do what is proper,

9 I prefer to appeal on the basis of love {agapēn}. For I, Paul (humble), am now aged, and a prisoner of Christ (the Anointed One) Jesus (YHWH saves) as well.