¹⁶ You could have him back not as a slave. Instead, he would be better than a slave. He would be a dear brother. He is very dear to me but even more dear to you. He is dear to you not only as another human being. He is also dear to you as a brother in the Lord.

¹⁷ Do you think of me as a believer who works together with you? Then welcome Onesimus as you would welcome me. ¹⁸ Has he done anything wrong to you? Does he owe you anything? Then charge it to me.