Philemon 1:6
New International Version
I pray that your partnership with us in the faith may be effective in deepening your understanding of every good thing we share for the sake of Christ.

New Living Translation
And I am praying that you will put into action the generosity that comes from your faith as you understand and experience all the good things we have in Christ.

English Standard Version
and I pray that the sharing of your faith may become effective for the full knowledge of every good thing that is in us for the sake of Christ.

Berean Standard Bible
I pray that your partnership in the faith may become effective as you fully acknowledge every good thing that is ours in Christ.

Berean Literal Bible
so that the fellowship of your faith might become effective in the acknowledgment of every good thing that is in you toward Christ.

King James Bible
That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus.

New King James Version
that the sharing of your faith may become effective by the acknowledgment of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus.

New American Standard Bible
and I pray that the fellowship of your faith may become effective through the knowledge of every good thing which is in you for the sake of Christ.

NASB 1995
and I pray that the fellowship of your faith may become effective through the knowledge of every good thing which is in you for Christ’s sake.

NASB 1977
and I pray that the fellowship of your faith may become effective through the knowledge of every good thing which is in you for Christ’s sake.

Legacy Standard Bible
and I pray that the fellowship of your faith may become effective through the full knowledge of every good thing which is in you for the sake of Christ.

Amplified Bible
I pray that the sharing of your faith may become effective and powerful because of your accurate knowledge of every good thing which is ours in Christ.

Christian Standard Bible
I pray that your participation in the faith may become effective through knowing every good thing that is in us for the glory of Christ.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
I pray that your participation in the faith may become effective through knowing every good thing that is in us for the glory of Christ.

American Standard Version
that the fellowship of thy faith may become effectual, in the knowledge of every good thing which is in you, unto Christ.

Contemporary English Version
As you share your faith with others, I pray they may come to know all the blessings Christ has given us.

English Revised Version
that the fellowship of thy faith may become effectual, in the knowledge of every good thing which is in you, unto Christ.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
As you share the faith you have in common with others, I pray that you may come to have a complete knowledge of every blessing we have in Christ.

Good News Translation
My prayer is that our fellowship with you as believers will bring about a deeper understanding of every blessing which we have in our life in union with Christ.

International Standard Version
I pray that your partnership in the faith may become effective as you fully acknowledge every blessing that is ours in the Messiah.

Majority Standard Bible
I pray that your partnership in the faith may become effective as you fully acknowledge every good thing that is ours in Christ Jesus.

NET Bible
I pray that the faith you share with us may deepen your understanding of every blessing that belongs to you in Christ.

New Heart English Bible
that the fellowship of your faith may become effective, in the knowledge of every good thing which is in you in Christ.

Webster's Bible Translation
That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus.

Weymouth New Testament
praying as I do, that their participation in your faith may result in others fully recognizing all the right affection that is in us toward Christ.

World English Bible
that the fellowship of your faith may become effective in the knowledge of every good thing which is in us in Christ Jesus.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
that the fellowship of your faith may become working in the full knowledge of every good thing that [is] in you toward Christ Jesus;

Berean Literal Bible
so that the fellowship of your faith might become effective in the acknowledgment of every good thing that is in you toward Christ.

Young's Literal Translation
that the fellowship of thy faith may become working in the full knowledge of every good thing that is in you toward Christ Jesus;

Smith's Literal Translation
So that the mutual participation of thy faith might be effective in acknowledgment of every good in you to Christ Jesus.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
That the communication of thy faith may be made evident in the acknowledgment of every good work, that is in you in Christ Jesus.

Catholic Public Domain Version
so that the participation of your faith may become evident by the recognition of every good work which is in you in Christ Jesus.

New American Bible
so that your partnership in the faith may become effective in recognizing every good there is in us that leads to Christ.

New Revised Standard Version
I pray that the sharing of your faith may become effective when you perceive all the good that we may do for Christ.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
That the participation of your faith may bear fruits in works, and in knowledge of everything that is good which you have in Jesus Christ.

Aramaic Bible in Plain English
That the sharing of your faith would produce fruit in works and in the knowledge of every good thing which you have in Yeshua The Messiah.
NT Translations
Anderson New Testament
that your participation in the faith may be active in the acknowledgment of every good thing that is in us, to the honor of Christ Jesus.

Godbey New Testament
in order that the fellowship of your faith may be efficient in the perfect knowledge of every good thing which is in you toward Christ.

Haweis New Testament
that there may be an operative communication of thy faith made known by every good thing, which is in you towards Jesus Christ.

Mace New Testament
so that the christian faith, which you have in common with us, displays itself to the observation of all good men about you.

Weymouth New Testament
praying as I do, that their participation in your faith may result in others fully recognizing all the right affection that is in us toward Christ.

Worrell New Testament
that the fellowship of your faith may become effectual, in the knowledge of every good thing in you, for Christ.

Worsley New Testament
that the communication of thy faith may become effectual in the acknowledgement of all the good that is in you towards Christ Jesus:

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
Philemon's Faith and Love
5because I hear about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints. 6I pray that your partnership in the faith may become effective as you fully acknowledge every good thing that is ours in Christ. 7I take great joy and encouragement in your love, because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the saints.…

Cross References
Ephesians 1:17-18
that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you a spirit of wisdom and revelation in your knowledge of Him. / I ask that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you may know the hope of His calling, the riches of His glorious inheritance in the saints,

Colossians 1:9-10
For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, / so that you may walk in a manner worthy of the Lord and may please Him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God,

2 Peter 1:3-8
His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through the knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence. / Through these He has given us His precious and magnificent promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, now that you have escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires. / For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith virtue; and to virtue, knowledge; ...

1 Corinthians 1:5
For in Him you have been enriched in every way, in all speech and all knowledge,

Philippians 1:9-11
And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, / so that you may be able to test and prove what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, / filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.

2 Corinthians 9:12-13
For this ministry of service is not only supplying the needs of the saints but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanksgiving to God. / Because of the proof this ministry provides, the saints will glorify God for your obedient confession of the gospel of Christ, and for the generosity of your contribution to them and to all the others.

Galatians 5:6
For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value. What matters is faith expressing itself through love.

Hebrews 10:24
And let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds.

James 2:17-18
So too, faith by itself, if it does not result in action, is dead. / But someone will say, “You have faith and I have deeds.” Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds.

Romans 15:14
I myself am convinced, my brothers, that you yourselves are full of goodness, brimming with knowledge, and able to instruct one another.

1 Thessalonians 1:3
and continually recalling before our God and Father your work of faith, your labor of love, and your enduring hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.

1 John 3:18
Little children, let us love not in word and speech, but in action and truth.

Titus 3:14
And our people must also learn to devote themselves to good works in order to meet the pressing needs of others, so that they will not be unfruitful.

Matthew 5:16
In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

1 Timothy 6:18
Instruct them to do good, to be rich in good works, and to be generous and ready to share,


Treasury of Scripture

That the communication of your faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus.

the communication.

2 Corinthians 9:12-14
For the administration of this service not only supplieth the want of the saints, but is abundant also by many thanksgivings unto God; …

Philippians 1:9-11
And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; …

Titus 3:14
And let ours also learn to maintain good works for necessary uses, that they be not unfruitful.

the acknowledging.

Matthew 5:16
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

1 Corinthians 14:25
And thus are the secrets of his heart made manifest; and so falling down on his face he will worship God, and report that God is in you of a truth.

Philippians 4:8
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

in you.

2 Peter 1:8
For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.

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Acknowledging Active Affection Christ Christ's Common Communication Effective Effectual Faith Fellowship Full Fully Good Jesus Others Participation Power Praying Promote Recognizing Result Right Sake Sharing Understanding Working
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Acknowledging Active Affection Christ Christ's Common Communication Effective Effectual Faith Fellowship Full Fully Good Jesus Others Participation Power Praying Promote Recognizing Result Right Sake Sharing Understanding Working
Philemon 1
1. Paul rejoices to hear of the faith and love of Philemon,
8. whom he desires to forgive his servant Onesimus, and lovingly to receive him again.














I pray
The Greek word used here is "προσεύχομαι" (proseuchomai), which signifies a deep, earnest communication with God. This is not a casual mention but a heartfelt intercession. In the context of the early church, prayer was a vital lifeline, a means of seeking divine intervention and guidance. Paul's use of "I pray" underscores the importance of spiritual support and the power of prayer in fostering unity and effectiveness within the Christian community.

that your partnership
The term "partnership" is translated from the Greek "κοινωνία" (koinonia), which implies fellowship, sharing, or communion. This word is rich with meaning, suggesting a deep, mutual participation in the faith. In the early church, "koinonia" was not merely about social interaction but a profound spiritual bond that united believers in their mission and purpose. It reflects the communal nature of the Christian faith, where believers are called to support and uplift one another.

in the faith
The phrase "in the faith" refers to the shared belief and trust in Jesus Christ. The Greek word "πίστις" (pistis) encompasses both belief and faithfulness. This highlights the dual aspect of faith as both a personal conviction and a communal commitment. In the historical context of the early church, maintaining "the faith" was crucial amidst persecution and doctrinal challenges. It served as the foundation for the believers' identity and mission.

may become effective
The Greek word for "effective" is "ἐνεργής" (energes), which means active, powerful, or productive. Paul is expressing a desire for Philemon's faith to be dynamic and impactful. This effectiveness is not merely about personal growth but about influencing others and advancing the gospel. In the context of the letter, it suggests that Philemon's actions, motivated by faith, should lead to tangible outcomes in the lives of others, particularly in the reconciliation with Onesimus.

as you fully acknowledge
The phrase "fully acknowledge" comes from the Greek "ἐπίγνωσις" (epignosis), which implies a deep, thorough understanding. This is more than intellectual assent; it is an experiential knowledge that transforms one's life. Paul is encouraging Philemon to grow in his understanding of the faith, recognizing the full implications of the gospel. This comprehensive knowledge is essential for living out one's faith effectively and for fostering genuine Christian fellowship.

every good thing
The phrase "every good thing" refers to the blessings and virtues that come from being in Christ. The Greek word "ἀγαθός" (agathos) denotes that which is inherently good, beneficial, and morally excellent. In the Christian context, these "good things" are the fruits of the Spirit and the blessings of salvation. Paul is reminding Philemon of the richness of the Christian life and the resources available to him through his relationship with Christ.

that is ours in Christ
The phrase "in Christ" is central to Paul's theology, emphasizing the believer's union with Jesus. The Greek "ἐν Χριστῷ" (en Christo) signifies a profound spiritual reality where believers are incorporated into the life, death, and resurrection of Christ. This union is the source of all spiritual blessings and the basis for Christian identity and community. Historically, this concept was revolutionary, breaking down barriers and creating a new, inclusive community of faith.

(6) That the communication of thy faith . . .--The general idea of St. Paul's prayer for Philemon is clear--that his "faith may become effectual," i.e., energetic and perfected, "in full knowledge." This is exactly the prayer which, in different forms and degrees of emphasis, opens all the Epistles of the Captivity. (See Ephesians 1:17; Philippians 1:9; Colossians 1:9.) It describes the true order of Christian life, so fully and beautifully drawn out in Ephesians 3:17-19, beginning in faith, deepened by love, and so growing to knowledge.

But it may be asked, "Why the communication of thy faith?" (1) The phrase is unique, but the word rendered "communication" is the well-known word generally rendered "communion," or "fellowship," except where (as in Romans 15:26; 2Corinthians 8:4; 2Corinthians 9:13; Hebrews 13:16) it is used technically and derivatively of "the communication" of almsgiving. The phrase, therefore, should probably be rendered the "communion of thy faith," i.e., "thy fellowship in faith." (2) But, again, the question arises, "With whom is this fellowship? With God or man?" The answer probably is, "With both." Perhaps for growth in divine knowledge the communion need only be with God. But we observe that the knowledge is not merely "of every good thing," i.e., of all that is of God, but of "every good thing which is in you (or, better, in us) towards Christ Jesus." It is, therefore, the knowledge of good--that is, of God's gift--as dwelling in man by the unity which binds all to Christ Jesus. (3) Now for knowledge of this, fellowship with man is needed, as well as fellowship with God. The soul which dwells alone with God, even in the holiest seclusion, knows what is good in the abstract, but not what is good in man in the concrete reality. But Philemon's house was a centre of Christian life. St. Paul might, therefore, well speak of this his two-fold "fellowship in faith," and pray that it might grow into full knowledge at once of God and of man as in Him. (4) That all such growth must be "towards Christ Jesus," dependent on unity with Him and serving to deepen such unity, is the characteristic doctrine of all this group of Epistles, especially of the Colossian Epistle, of which Onesimus was one of the bearers. . . .

Verse 6. - Render thus: So that the community of thy faith [with other Christians, whom you may be able to serve] may show itself in act, causing full acknowledgment [from the world without] of every good work for Jesus Christ that is in you (Revised Version is not clear here); literally, may become working. Not a theoretical or merely quiescent faith. He was to confess Christ before men (and see James 2:22). "For whatever good thing is in us makes manifest our faith" (Calvin). In you. Bishop Wordsworth reads ἡμῖν, "us" - the body of Christians, following A, C, D, E, K, L, with many Fathers and versions.

Parallel Commentaries ...


Greek
[I pray] that
ὅπως (hopōs)
Conjunction
Strong's 3704: From hos and pos; what(-ever) how, i.e. In the manner that (as adverb or conjunction of coincidence, intentional or actual).

your
σου (sou)
Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive 2nd Person Singular
Strong's 4771: You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou.

partnership
κοινωνία (koinōnia)
Noun - Nominative Feminine Singular
Strong's 2842: From koinonos; partnership, i.e. participation, or intercourse, or benefaction.

in the
τῆς (tēs)
Article - Genitive Feminine Singular
Strong's 3588: The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.

faith
πίστεώς (pisteōs)
Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular
Strong's 4102: Faith, belief, trust, confidence; fidelity, faithfulness.

may become
γένηται (genētai)
Verb - Aorist Subjunctive Middle - 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 1096: A prolongation and middle voice form of a primary verb; to cause to be, i.e. to become, used with great latitude.

effective
ἐνεργὴς (energēs)
Adjective - Nominative Feminine Singular
Strong's 1756: Effective, productive of due result, at work. From en and ergon; active, operative.

as
ἐν (en)
Preposition
Strong's 1722: In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc.

you fully acknowledge
ἐπιγνώσει (epignōsei)
Noun - Dative Feminine Singular
Strong's 1922: From epiginosko; recognition, i.e. full discernment, acknowledgement.

every
παντὸς (pantos)
Adjective - Genitive Neuter Singular
Strong's 3956: All, the whole, every kind of. Including all the forms of declension; apparently a primary word; all, any, every, the whole.

good [thing]
ἀγαθοῦ (agathou)
Adjective - Genitive Neuter Singular
Strong's 18: A primary word; 'good'.

that [is]
τοῦ (tou)
Article - Genitive Neuter Singular
Strong's 3588: The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.

ours
ἡμῖν (hēmin)
Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Dative 1st Person Plural
Strong's 1473: I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.

in
εἰς (eis)
Preposition
Strong's 1519: A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases.

Christ.
Χριστόν (Christon)
Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular
Strong's 5547: Anointed One; the Messiah, the Christ. From chrio; Anointed One, i.e. The Messiah, an epithet of Jesus.


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NT Letters: Philemon 1:6 That the fellowship of your faith may (Phm Phl)
Philemon 1:5
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