Philemon 4-9

New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition

Philemon’s Love and Faith

⁴ I thank my God always when I mention you^[a] in my prayers, ⁵ because I hear of your love for all the saints and your faith toward the Lord Jesus.^{(A) 6} I pray that the partnership of your faith may become effective as you comprehend all the good that we^[b] share in Christ.^{[c] 7} I have^[d] indeed received much joy and encouragement from your love, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you, my brother.^(B)

Paul’s Plea for Onesimus

⁸ For this reason, though I am more than bold enough in Christ to command you to do the right thing, ⁹ yet I would rather appeal to you on the basis of love—and I, Paul, do this as an old man and now also as a prisoner of Christ Jesus.^[e]