[1] This 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] We 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] May 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] It 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] Your love has given me much joy and comfort. The hearts of the Christians have been made happy by you, Christian brother.
[8] So now, through Christ, I am free to tell you what you must do.
[9] But 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] At 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] But 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] He ran away from you for awhile. But now he is yours forever.
[16] Do 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] If you think of me as a true friend, take him back as you would take me.
[18] If 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] Yes, 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] Please have a room ready for me. I trust God will answer your prayers and let me come to you soon.
[23] Epaphras greets you. He is a brother in Christ in prison with me.
[24] Mark and Aristarchus and Demas and Luke who are workers with me greet you.
[25] May the loving-favor of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.