1 T his 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.

2 W e 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.

3 M ay God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you His loving-favor and peace.

4 I always thank God when I speak of you in my prayers.

5 I t is because I hear of your love and trust in the Lord Jesus and in all the Christians.

6 I pray that our faith together will help you know all the good things you have through Christ Jesus.

7 Y our love has given me much joy and comfort. The hearts of the Christians have been made happy by you, Christian brother.

8 S o now, through Christ, I am free to tell you what you must do.

9 B ut because I love you, I will only ask you. I am Paul, an old man, here in prison because of Jesus Christ.

10 I am asking you for my son, Onesimus. He has become my son in the Christian life while I have been here in prison.

11 A t one time he was of no use to you. But now he is of use to you and to me.

12 I am sending him back to you. It is like sending you my own heart.

13 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.

14 B ut 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.

15 H e ran away from you for awhile. But now he is yours forever.

16 D o 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.

17 I f you think of me as a true friend, take him back as you would take me.

18 I f he has done anything wrong or owes you anything, send me the bill.

19 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.

20 Y es, Christian brother, I want you to be of use to me as a Christian. Give my heart new joy in Christ.

21 I write this letter knowing you will do what I ask and even more.

22 P lease have a room ready for me. I trust God will answer your prayers and let me come to you soon.

23 E paphras says hello. He is a brother in Christ in prison with me.

24 M ark and Aristarchus and Demas and Luke who are workers with me say hello.

25 M ay the loving-favor of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.