New International Versionthat I appeal to you for my son Onesimus, who became my son while I was in chains.
New Living TranslationI appeal to you to show kindness to my child, Onesimus. I became his father in the faith while here in prison.
English Standard VersionI appeal to you for my child, Onesimus, whose father I became in my imprisonment.
Berean Standard BibleI appeal to you for my child Onesimus, whose father I became while I was in chains.
Berean Literal BibleI exhort you for my child whom I have begotten in chains, Onesimus,
King James BibleI beseech thee for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten in my bonds:
New King James VersionI appeal to you for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten while in my chains,
New American Standard BibleI appeal to you for my son Onesimus, whom I fathered in my imprisonment,
NASB 1995I appeal to you for my child Onesimus, whom I have begotten in my imprisonment,
NASB 1977I appeal to you for my child, whom I have begotten in my imprisonment, Onesimus,
Legacy Standard BibleI plead with you for my child Onesimus, of whom I became a father in my chains,
Amplified BibleI appeal to you for my [own spiritual] child Onesimus, whom I have fathered [in the faith] while a captive in these chains.
Christian Standard Bibleappeal to you for my son, Onesimus. I became his father while I was in chains.
Holman Christian Standard Bibleappeal to you for my son, Onesimus. I fathered him while I was in chains.
American Standard VersionI beseech thee for my child, whom I have begotten in my bonds, Onesimus,
Contemporary English VersionI beg you to help Onesimus! He is like a son to me because I led him to Christ here in jail.
English Revised VersionI beseech thee for my child, whom I have begotten in my bonds, Onesimus,
GOD'S WORD® Translationappeal to you for my child Onesimus [Useful]. I became his spiritual father here in prison.
Good News TranslationSo I make a request to you on behalf of Onesimus, who is my own son in Christ; for while in prison I have become his spiritual father.
International Standard Versionappeal to you on behalf of my child Onesimus, whose father I have become during my imprisonment.
NET BibleI am appealing to you concerning my child, whose spiritual father I have become during my imprisonment, that is, Onesimus,
New Heart English BibleI appeal to you for my child, whom I have become the father of in my chains, Onesimus,
Webster's Bible TranslationI beseech thee for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten in my bonds:
Weymouth New TestamentI entreat you on behalf of my own child whose father I have become while in my chains--I mean Onesimus. Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleI appeal to you for my child Onesimus, whose father I became while I was in my chains.
World English BibleI appeal to you for my child Onesimus, whom I have become the father of in my chains, Literal Translations Literal Standard VersionI beg you concerning my child—whom I begot in my bonds—Onesimus,
Berean Literal BibleI exhort you for my child whom I have begotten in chains, Onesimus,
Young's Literal Translation I entreat thee concerning my child -- whom I did beget in my bonds -- Onesimus,
Smith's Literal TranslationI beseech thee for my child whom I begat in my bonds, Onesimus. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleI beseech thee for my son, whom I have begotten in my bands, Onesimus,
Catholic Public Domain VersionI beg you, on behalf of my son, whom I have begotten in my chains, Onesimus.
New American BibleI urge you on behalf of my child Onesimus, whose father I have become in my imprisonment,
New Revised Standard VersionI am appealing to you for my child, Onesimus, whose father I have become during my imprisonment. Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleI beseech you on behalf of my son Ones’i- mus, whom I converted during my imprisonment:
Aramaic Bible in Plain EnglishI beg of you concerning my son Onesimus, whom I begot in my bondage, NT Translations Anderson New TestamentI beseech you for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten in my bonds,
Godbey New TestamentI exhort you concerning my son, whom I begat in my bonds, Onesimus,
Haweis New TestamentI entreat thee for my son, whom I have begotten during my bonds, Onesimus:
Mace New Testamentand intercede with you for my son Onesimus, whom I made a convert whilst I was in chains.
Weymouth New TestamentI entreat you on behalf of my own child whose father I have become while in my chains--I mean Onesimus.
Worrell New TestamentI beseech you for my child, whom I begat in my bonds, Onesimus,
Worsley New TestamentI intreat thee then for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten in my bonds,
Additional Translations ... Audio Bible
Context Paul's Appeal for Onesimus… 9I prefer to appeal on the basis of love. For I, Paul, am now aged, and a prisoner of Christ Jesus as well. 10I appealto youformychildOnesimus,whosefather I becamewhile I was inchains.11Formerly he was useless to you, but now he has become useful both to you and to me.…
Cross References 2 Corinthians 5:17Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away. Behold, the new has come!
Galatians 4:19My children, for whom I am again in the pains of childbirth until Christ is formed in you,
1 Corinthians 4:15Even if you have ten thousand guardians in Christ, you do not have many fathers; for in Christ Jesus I became your father through the gospel.
Colossians 4:9With him I am sending Onesimus, our faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They will tell you about everything here.
Romans 16:13Greet Rufus, chosen in the Lord, and his mother, who has been a mother to me as well.
1 Timothy 1:2To Timothy, my true child in the faith: Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.
Titus 1:4To Titus, my true child in our common faith: Grace and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Savior.
1 Peter 5:13The church in Babylon, chosen together with you, sends you greetings, as does my son Mark.
2 Timothy 1:2To Timothy, my beloved child: Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.
Acts 15:36-41Some time later Paul said to Barnabas, “Let us go back and visit the brothers in every town where we proclaimed the word of the Lord, to see how they are doing.” / Barnabas wanted to take John, also called Mark. / But Paul thought it best not to take him, because he had deserted them in Pamphylia and had not accompanied them in the work. ...
John 3:3-7Jesus replied, “Truly, truly, I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again.” / “How can a man be born when he is old?” Nicodemus asked. “Can he enter his mother’s womb a second time to be born?” / Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless he is born of water and the Spirit. ...
Ephesians 6:21Tychicus, the beloved brother and faithful servant in the Lord, will tell you everything, so that you also may know about me and what I am doing.
Matthew 18:15-17If your brother sins against you, go and confront him privately. If he listens to you, you have won your brother over. / But if he will not listen, take one or two others along, so that ‘every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.’ / If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church. And if he refuses to listen even to the church, regard him as you would a pagan or a tax collector.
Genesis 45:8Therefore it was not you who sent me here, but God, who has made me a father to Pharaoh—lord of all his household and ruler over all the land of Egypt.
Isaiah 56:5I will give them, in My house and within My walls, a memorial and a name better than that of sons and daughters. I will give them an everlasting name that will not be cut off.
Treasury of Scripture I beseech you for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten in my bonds: my son. 2 Samuel 9:1-7 And David said, Is there yet any that is left of the house of Saul, that I may shew him kindness for Jonathan's sake? … 2 Samuel 18:5 And the king commanded Joab and Abishai and Ittai, saying,Deal gently for my sake with the young man,even with Absalom. And all the people heard when the king gave all the captains charge concerning Absalom. 2 Samuel 19:37,38 Let thy servant, I pray thee, turn back again, that I may die in mine own city,and be buried by the grave of my father and of my mother. But behold thy servant Chimham; let him go over with my lord the king; and do to him what shall seem good unto thee… Onesimus. Colossians 4:9 With Onesimus, a faithful and beloved brother, who isone of you. They shall make known unto you all things whichare done here. whom. 1 Corinthians 4:15 For though ye have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yethave ye not many fathers: for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel. Galatians 4:19 My little children, of whom I travail in birth again until Christ be formed in you, Jump to Previous AppealBegBegetBegottenBehalfBeseechBondsChainsChildEntreatExhortImprisonmentMeanOnesimusOnes'imusRequestJump to Next AppealBegBegetBegottenBehalfBeseechBondsChainsChildEntreatExhortImprisonmentMeanOnesimusOnes'imusRequestPhilemon 1 1.Paul rejoices to hear of the faith and love of Philemon,8.whom he desires to forgive his servant Onesimus, and lovingly to receive him again.I appeal to youThis phrase indicates a personal and heartfelt request rather than a command. Paul often uses this approach in his letters to encourage a response based on love and mutual respect. It reflects the Christian principle of appealing to the heart and conscience rather than imposing authority. for my child Onesimus
Onesimus was a runaway slave belonging to Philemon, a leader in the Colossian church. The term "child" signifies a spiritual relationship, as Paul often referred to those he led to Christ as his children (e.g., Timothy in1 Timothy 1:2). This highlights the transformative power of the Gospel, which transcends social and legal boundaries. whose father I became
Paul uses paternal language to describe his spiritual mentorship and the conversion of Onesimus. This reflects the early Christian practice of spiritual parenthood, where converts were nurtured in faith by more mature believers. It also underscores the deep personal bond formed through discipleship. while I was in chains
Paul wrote this letter during his imprisonment, likely in Rome. His chains symbolize his suffering for the Gospel, yet they also serve as a testament to his unwavering commitment to his mission. This context adds weight to his appeal, as it demonstrates his dedication to reconciliation and unity within the body of Christ, even while enduring hardship. Persons / Places / Events 1. PaulThe apostle who wrote the letter to Philemon. He is in prison at the time of writing and is appealing on behalf of Onesimus. 2. OnesimusA slave who belonged to Philemon. He became a Christian through Paul's ministry while Paul was imprisoned. 3. PhilemonA Christian leader and the recipient of the letter. He is the master of Onesimus and is being asked by Paul to receive Onesimus back as a brother in Christ. 4. RomeThe likely place where Paul was imprisoned and where he met Onesimus. 5. ColossaeThe city where Philemon lived and where the church met in his house. Teaching Points Spiritual ParenthoodPaul refers to Onesimus as his child, highlighting the importance of spiritual mentorship and discipleship. Believers are encouraged to invest in the spiritual growth of others. Transformation in ChristOnesimus' conversion is a testament to the transformative power of the Gospel. No matter one's past, in Christ, there is a new beginning. Christian BrotherhoodPaul appeals to Philemon to accept Onesimus not just as a slave but as a brother in Christ. This challenges believers to view relationships through the lens of their shared faith. Forgiveness and ReconciliationThe letter to Philemon is a powerful example of seeking reconciliation and extending forgiveness, reflecting the heart of the Gospel. Advocacy and IntercessionPaul’s role as an advocate for Onesimus encourages believers to intercede and stand up for others, especially those who are vulnerable or marginalized. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1.What is the meaning of Philemon 1:10?
2.How does Philemon 1:10 illustrate the power of spiritual transformation in Christ?
3.What role does Paul play in Onesimus's life according to Philemon 1:10?
4.How can we act as spiritual mentors like Paul in our communities?
5.How does Philemon 1:10 connect to the theme of reconciliation in the Bible?
6.What steps can we take to support new believers, inspired by Philemon 1:10?
7.How does Philemon 1:10 challenge our understanding of forgiveness and reconciliation in Christian relationships?
8.What does Paul's appeal for Onesimus reveal about the early Christian view of slavery?
9.How does Philemon 1:10 illustrate the transformative power of the Gospel?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Philemon 1?
11.Who was Onesimus in the Bible?
12.Philemon 1:12–16 – Why would Paul send a slave back to his master instead of urging Philemon to free him outright?
13.Philemon 1:10–11 – Why does Paul approach Onesimus’s situation so subtly, rather than condemning slavery outright?
14.How does Philemon demonstrate forgiveness and reconciliation?What Does Philemon 1:10 Mean I appeal to youPaul, though an apostle, chooses the gentle word “appeal” instead of a command. • This shows the heart of a shepherd who values voluntary obedience (see2 Corinthians 8:8;2 Corinthians 10:1). • He models Christlike humility—having authority yet choosing servanthood (Matthew 20:25-28). • His approach reminds us that love, not pressure, is the true motive for Christian action (John 13:34-35).
for my child OnesimusThe runaway slave has become a dearly loved member of God’s family. • Just as believers are adopted through faith (John 1:12-13;Romans 8:15-16), Onesimus has moved from uselessness to usefulness (Philemon 1:11). • Paul speaks of him with the same warmth he lavishes on Timothy and Titus (1 Timothy 1:2;Titus 1:4), underscoring the dignity Christ grants every believer, regardless of social status (Galatians 3:28). • By calling Onesimus “my child,” Paul signals to Philemon that any action taken toward the slave touches Paul himself (1 Corinthians 12:26-27).
whose father I becameSpiritual parenthood is at the core of gospel ministry. • Paul led Onesimus to faith, echoing his words to the Corinthians: “For in Christ Jesus you became fathers through the gospel” (1 Corinthians 4:15). • The imagery highlights nurture, responsibility, and ongoing care (1 Thessalonians 2:11-12). • It also points to multiplication—disciples making disciples (2 Timothy 2:2).
while I was in chainsGod’s work continues even in confinement. • Paul’s imprisonment did not hinder the gospel; it opened new doors (Philippians 1:12-14;Acts 28:30-31). • Chains become a backdrop for divine providence—Onesimus meets Paul, hears the gospel, and is transformed (Genesis 50:20 applied). • The statement quietly reminds Philemon that the plea comes from someone suffering for Christ (Ephesians 6:20), adding weight yet not coercion.
summaryPhilemon 1:10 unveils a tender, persuasive snapshot of gospel transformation. Paul humbly pleads, elevates a once-wayward slave to the status of beloved child, embraces the role of spiritual father, and testifies that no chains can shackle God’s redeeming work. The verse calls every believer to value restoration, practice loving intercession, and trust that God advances His kingdom through even the most unlikely circumstances. (10) Myson.--Properly, my own child, whom I have begotten in my bonds, Onesimus. The name is withheld, till Philemon's interest is doubly engaged, for one who is the Apostle's "own child" (a name of endearment given elsewhere only to Timothy and Titus), and for one who was begotten under the hardships and hindrances of imprisonment. At last the name is given, and even then comes, in the same breath, the declaration of the change in him from past uselessness to present usefulness, both to the Apostle and to his former master. Onesimus.--Of Onesimus we know absolutely nothing, except what we read here and inColossians 4:9. Tradition, of course, is busy with his name, and makes him Bishop of Ber?a, in Macedonia, or identifies him with the Onesimus, Bishop of Ephesus, mentioned in the IgnatianEpistle to the Ephesians (Ephesians 1:2-6). The name was a common one, especially among slaves. Verse 10. - I beseech thee for my son ... Onesimus; my child (Revised Version). The name of Onesimus could not have been a pleasing one in the ears of Philemon. Note with what caution and almost timidity it is at length introduced. He does not interpose for the ingrate with apostolic dignity, but pleads for him with fatherly love. He puts himself side by side with him, and calls him his son. Some of the old commentators conclude, from Colossians 4:9, that Onesimus was a native of Colossae, and thence discuss whether he could have been a slave born in Philemon's house of a slave-mother, or whether he was sold in his youth by his father - a custom so common to the Phrygians (as to the Circassians in later times) as to have been noticed by Cicero.
Parallel Commentaries ...
Greek I appealΠαρακαλῶ(Parakalō)Verb - Present Indicative Active - 1st Person Singular
Strong's 3870:From para and kaleo; to call near, i.e. Invite, invoke.to youσε(se)Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Accusative 2nd Person Singular
Strong's 4771:You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou.forπερὶ(peri)Preposition
Strong's 4012:From the base of peran; properly, through, i.e. Around; figuratively with respect to; used in various applications, of place, cause or time.myἐμοῦ(emou)Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive 1st Person Singular
Strong's 1699:My, mine. From the oblique cases of ego; my.childτέκνου(teknou)Noun - Genitive Neuter Singular
Strong's 5043:A child, descendent, inhabitant. From the base of timoria; a child.Onesimus,Ὀνήσιμον(Onēsimon)Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular
Strong's 3682:From oninemi; profitable; Onesimus, a Christian.whoseὃν(hon)Personal / Relative Pronoun - Accusative Masculine Singular
Strong's 3739:Who, which, what, that.father I becameἐγέννησα(egennēsa)Verb - Aorist Indicative Active - 1st Person Singular
Strong's 1080:From a variation of genos; to procreate; figuratively, to regenerate.[while I was] inἐν(en)Preposition
Strong's 1722:In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc.chains.δεσμοῖς(desmois)Noun - Dative Masculine Plural
Strong's 1199:Or desmos des-mos' neuter and masculine respectively from deo; a band, i.e. Ligament or shackle; figuratively, an impediment or disability.
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NT Letters: Philemon 1:10 I beg you for my child whom (Phm Phl) |
