For perhaps he was therefore separated from you for a while that you would have him forever,
THE SURROUNDING PASSAGE
Philemon 15 in context
Philemon 12–18
12
I am sending him back. Therefore receive him, that is, my own heart,
13
whom I desired to keep with me, that on your behalf he might serve me in my chains for the Good News.
14
But I was willing to do nothing without your consent, that your goodness would not be as of necessity, but of free will.
15
Selected verse
For perhaps he was therefore separated from you for a while that you would have him forever,
16
no longer as a slave, but more than a slave, a beloved brother—especially to me, but how much rather to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord.
17
If then you count me a partner, receive him as you would receive me.
18
But if he has wronged you at all or owes you anything, put that to my account.
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