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class="vheadingv"><b>Verse</b><a href="/bsb/philemon/1.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><span class="versiontext"><a href="/niv/philemon/1.htm">New International Version</a></span><br />Perhaps the reason he was separated from you for a little while was that you might have him back forever—<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/philemon/1.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />It seems you lost Onesimus for a little while so that you could have him back forever.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/philemon/1.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />For this perhaps is why he was parted from you for a while, that you might have him back forever,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/philemon/1.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />For perhaps this is why he was separated from you for a while, so that you might have him back for good—<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/blb/philemon/1.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a></span><br />For perhaps because of this he was separated <i>from you</i> for a time, so that you might possess him eternally,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/philemon/1.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />For perhaps he therefore departed for a season, that thou shouldest receive him for ever;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/philemon/1.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />For perhaps he departed for a while for this <i>purpose,</i> that you might receive him forever,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/philemon/1.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />For perhaps <i>it was</i> for this reason <i>that</i> he was separated <i>from you</i> for a while, that you would have him back forever,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/philemon/1.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />For perhaps he was for this reason separated from you for a while, that you would have him back forever,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/philemon/1.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />For perhaps he was for this reason parted <i>from you</i> for a while, that you should have him back forever,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/philemon/1.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />For perhaps he was for this reason separated <i>from you</i> for a while, that you would have him back forever,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/philemon/1.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />Perhaps it was for this reason that he was separated from you for a while, so that you would have him back forever,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/philemon/1.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />For perhaps this is why he was separated from you for a brief time, so that you might get him back permanently,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/philemon/1.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />For perhaps this is why he was separated from you for a brief time, so that you might get him back permanently, <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/philemon/1.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />For perhaps he was therefore parted from thee for a season, that thou shouldest have him for ever;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/philemon/1.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />Perhaps Onesimus was taken from you for a little while so you could have him back for good, <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/philemon/1.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />For perhaps he was therefore parted from thee for a season, that thou shouldest have him for ever;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/philemon/1.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />Maybe Onesimus was gone for a while so that you could have him back forever-<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/philemon/1.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />It may be that Onesimus was away from you for a short time so that you might have him back for all time. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/philemon/1.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />Perhaps this is why he was separated from you for a while, so that you could have him back forever, <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/philemon/1.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />For perhaps this is why he was separated from you for a while, so that you might have him back for good?<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/philemon/1.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />For perhaps it was for this reason that he was separated from you for a little while, so that you would have him back eternally,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/philemon/1.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />For perhaps he was therefore separated from you for a while, that you would have him forever,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/philemon/1.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />For perhaps he therefore departed for a season, that thou shouldst receive him for ever;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wey/philemon/1.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a></span><br />For perhaps it was for this reason he was parted from you for a time, that you might receive him back wholly and for ever yours;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/philemon/1.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />For perhaps he was therefore separated from you for a while that you would have him forever, <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/philemon/1.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />for perhaps because of this he departed for an hour, that you may have him continuously,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/blb/philemon/1.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a></span><br />For perhaps because of this he was separated <i>from you</i> for a time, so that you might possess him eternally,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/philemon/1.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> for perhaps because of this he did depart for an hour, that age-duringly thou mayest have him,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/philemon/1.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />For perhaps therefore he was separated for a time, that thou mightest receive him forever;<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/philemon/1.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />For perhaps he therefore departed for a season from thee, that thou mightest receive him again for ever: <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/philemon/1.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br />So perhaps, then, he departed from you for a time, so that you might receive him again for eternity,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/philemon/1.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />Perhaps this is why he was away from you for a while, that you might have him back forever,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/philemon/1.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />Perhaps this is the reason he was separated from you for a while, so that you might have him back forever,<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/philemon/1.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />Perhaps this was the reason why he left you for a while, that you can now engage him for ever;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/aramaic-plain-english/philemon/1.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a></span><br />But perhaps also for this cause he departed for a time, so that you may have him for eternity,<div class="vheading2"><b>NT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/anderson/philemon/1.htm">Anderson New Testament</a></span><br />Perhaps, indeed, lie departed for a short time for this reason, that you might receive him forever;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/godbey/philemon/1.htm">Godbey New Testament</a></span><br />for on this account he suddenly departed from you for an hour, that you might have him back forever;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/haweis/philemon/1.htm">Haweis New Testament</a></span><br />For to this end perhaps was he separated from thee for a season, that thou mightest receive him for ever;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/mace/philemon/1.htm">Mace New Testament</a></span><br />perhaps he quitted you for a while, to be yours for ever after:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wey/philemon/1.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a></span><br />For perhaps it was for this reason he was parted from you for a time, that you might receive him back wholly and for ever yours;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/worrell/philemon/1.htm">Worrell New Testament</a></span><br />For, perhaps, he departed for a season for this reason, that you might have him back forever;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/worsley/philemon/1.htm">Worsley New Testament</a></span><br />For perhaps he was therefore parted <i>from thee</i> for a season, that thou mightest receive him for ever:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/philemon/1-15.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></span></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv"><b>Audio Bible</b></div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BS2bNjCPoic?start=110" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><div class="vheadingv"><b>Context</b></div><span class="hdg"><a href="/bsb/philemon/1.htm">Paul's Appeal for Onesimus</a></span><br>…<span class="reftext">14</span>But I did not want to do anything without your consent, so that your goodness will not be out of compulsion, but by your own free will. <span class="reftext">15</span><span class="highl"><a href="/greek/1063.htm" title="1063: gar (Conj) -- For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason.">For</a> <a href="/greek/5029.htm" title="5029: tacha (Adv) -- Quickly, presently, perhaps. As if neuter plural of tachus; shortly, i.e. possibly.">perhaps</a> <a href="/greek/1223.htm" title="1223: dia (Prep) -- A primary preposition denoting the channel of an act; through.">this is why</a> <a href="/greek/3778.htm" title="3778: touto (DPro-ANS) -- This; he, she, it. "></a> <a href="/greek/5563.htm" title="5563: echōristhē (V-AIP-3S) -- From chora; to place room between, i.e. Part; reflexively, to go away.">he was separated from you</a> <a href="/greek/4314.htm" title="4314: pros (Prep) -- To, towards, with. A strengthened form of pro; a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e. Toward.">for</a> <a href="/greek/5610.htm" title="5610: hōran (N-AFS) -- Apparently a primary word; an hour.">a while,</a> <a href="/greek/2443.htm" title="2443: hina (Conj) -- In order that, so that. Probably from the same as the former part of heautou; in order that.">so that</a> <a href="/greek/568.htm" title="568: apechēs (V-ASA-2S) -- To have in full, be far, it is enough. From apo and echo; to have out, i.e. Receive in full; to keep away, i.e. Be distant.">you might have him back</a> <a href="/greek/846.htm" title="846: auton (PPro-AM3S) -- He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons."></a> <a href="/greek/166.htm" title="166: aiōnion (Adj-AMS) -- From aion; perpetual.">for good—</a> </span> <span class="reftext">16</span>no longer as a slave, but better than a slave, as a beloved brother. He is especially beloved to me, but even more so to you, both in person and in the Lord.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><span class="crossverse"><a href="/genesis/45-5.htm">Genesis 45:5-8</a></span><br />And now, do not be distressed or angry with yourselves that you sold me into this place, because it was to save lives that God sent me before you. / For the famine has covered the land these two years, and there will be five more years without plowing or harvesting. / God sent me before you to preserve you as a remnant on the earth and to save your lives by a great deliverance. ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/romans/8-28.htm">Romans 8:28</a></span><br />And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/genesis/50-20.htm">Genesis 50:20</a></span><br />As for you, what you intended against me for evil, God intended for good, in order to accomplish a day like this—to preserve the lives of many people.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/esther/4-14.htm">Esther 4:14</a></span><br />For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s house will perish. And who knows if perhaps you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_corinthians/4-17.htm">2 Corinthians 4:17</a></span><br />For our light and momentary affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory that is far beyond comparison.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/acts/15-37.htm">Acts 15:37-39</a></span><br />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. / Their disagreement was so sharp that they parted company. Barnabas took Mark and sailed for Cyprus,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_corinthians/7-21.htm">1 Corinthians 7:21-24</a></span><br />Were you a slave when you were called? Do not let it concern you—but if you can gain your freedom, take the opportunity. / For he who was a slave when he was called by the Lord is the Lord’s freedman. Conversely, he who was a free man when he was called is Christ’s slave. / You were bought at a price; do not become slaves of men. ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/ephesians/6-5.htm">Ephesians 6:5-9</a></span><br />Slaves, obey your earthly masters with respect and fear and sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ. / And do this not only to please them while they are watching, but as servants of Christ, doing the will of God from your heart. / Serve with good will, as to the Lord and not to men, ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/colossians/3-22.htm">Colossians 3:22-25</a></span><br />Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything, not only to please them while they are watching, but with sincerity of heart and fear of the Lord. / Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, as for the Lord and not for men, / because you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as your reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_peter/2-18.htm">1 Peter 2:18-20</a></span><br />Servants, submit yourselves to your masters with all respect, not only to those who are good and gentle, but even to those who are unreasonable. / For if anyone endures the pain of unjust suffering because he is conscious of God, this is to be commended. / How is it to your credit if you are beaten for doing wrong and you endure it? But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/18-21.htm">Matthew 18:21-22</a></span><br />Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother who sins against me? Up to seven times?” / Jesus answered, “I tell you, not just seven times, but seventy-seven times!<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/luke/15-11.htm">Luke 15:11-32</a></span><br />Then Jesus said, “There was a man who had two sons. / The younger son said to him, ‘Father, give me my share of the estate.’ So he divided his property between them. / After a few days, the younger son got everything together and journeyed to a distant country, where he squandered his wealth in wild living. ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/galatians/4-7.htm">Galatians 4:7</a></span><br />So you are no longer a slave, but a son; and since you are a son, you are also an heir through God.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_timothy/6-1.htm">1 Timothy 6:1-2</a></span><br />All who are under the yoke of slavery should regard their masters as fully worthy of honor, so that God’s name and our teaching will not be discredited. / Those who have believing masters should not show disrespect because they are brothers, but should serve them all the more, since those receiving their good service are beloved believers. Teach and encourage these principles.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/exodus/21-2.htm">Exodus 21:2-6</a></span><br />If you buy a Hebrew servant, he is to serve you for six years. But in the seventh year, he shall go free without paying anything. / If he arrived alone, he is to leave alone; if he arrived with a wife, she is to leave with him. / If his master gives him a wife and she bears him sons or daughters, the woman and her children shall belong to her master, and only the man shall go free. ...</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">For perhaps he therefore departed for a season, that you should receive him for ever;</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/genesis/45-5.htm">Genesis 45:5-8</a></b></br> Now therefore be not grieved, nor angry with yourselves, that ye sold me hither: for God did send me before you to preserve life… </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/genesis/50-20.htm">Genesis 50:20</a></b></br> But as for you, ye thought evil against me; <i>but</i> God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as <i>it is</i> this day, to save much people alive.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/76-10.htm">Psalm 76:10</a></b></br> Surely the wrath of man shall praise thee: the remainder of wrath shalt thou restrain.</p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/2_timothy/2-19.htm">Depart</a> <a href="/2_timothy/4-10.htm">Departed</a> <a href="/2_timothy/4-18.htm">Forever</a> <a href="/philemon/1-6.htm">Fully</a> <a href="/philemon/1-14.htm">Good</a> <a href="/galatians/2-5.htm">Hour</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/5-20.htm">Little</a> <a href="/titus/1-5.htm">Mayest</a> <a href="/titus/1-5.htm">Mightest</a> <a href="/acts/21-1.htm">Parted</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-25.htm">Perhaps</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/4-4.htm">Possess</a> <a href="/colossians/1-28.htm">Possible</a> <a href="/titus/1-13.htm">Reason</a> <a href="/philemon/1-12.htm">Receive</a> <a href="/titus/1-3.htm">Season</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-17.htm">Separated</a> <a href="/titus/1-5.htm">Shouldest</a> <a href="/titus/1-5.htm">Shouldst</a> <a href="/philemon/1-11.htm">Time</a> <a href="/1_timothy/6-5.htm">Wholly</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/james/2-16.htm">Depart</a> <a href="/revelation/6-14.htm">Departed</a> <a href="/hebrews/1-8.htm">Forever</a> <a href="/hebrews/2-6.htm">Fully</a> <a href="/hebrews/4-2.htm">Good</a> <a href="/1_john/2-18.htm">Hour</a> <a href="/hebrews/2-7.htm">Little</a> <a href="/3_john/1-2.htm">Mayest</a> <a href="/exodus/10-2.htm">Mightest</a> <a href="/hebrews/12-16.htm">Parted</a> <a href="/hebrews/2-1.htm">Perhaps</a> <a href="/hebrews/6-18.htm">Possess</a> <a href="/hebrews/6-6.htm">Possible</a> <a href="/hebrews/2-1.htm">Reason</a> <a href="/philemon/1-17.htm">Receive</a> <a href="/hebrews/11-25.htm">Season</a> <a href="/hebrews/7-26.htm">Separated</a> <a href="/revelation/11-18.htm">Shouldest</a> <a href="/revelation/5-9.htm">Shouldst</a> <a href="/philemon/1-22.htm">Time</a> <a href="/jude/1-19.htm">Wholly</a><div class="vheading2">Philemon 1</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/philemon/1-1.htm">Paul rejoices to hear of the faith and love of Philemon, </a></span><br><span class="reftext">8. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/philemon/1-8.htm">whom he desires to forgive his servant Onesimus, and lovingly to receive him again.</a></span><br></div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div><br /><br /> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> <br /><br /> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/philemon/1.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/philemon/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/philemon/1.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div><b>For perhaps this is why</b><br>This phrase introduces the idea of divine providence. The use of "perhaps" suggests humility in discerning God's will, acknowledging that human understanding is limited. This reflects the biblical theme that God can work through circumstances that seem negative or unintended, as seen in <a href="/genesis/50-20.htm">Genesis 50:20</a>, where Joseph tells his brothers that what they intended for harm, God intended for good.<p><b>he was separated from you</b><br>The separation refers to Onesimus, a slave who had run away from his master, Philemon. In the Roman world, slavery was a common institution, and a runaway slave could face severe punishment. This separation, though seemingly a negative event, is presented as part of a larger divine plan. The concept of separation leading to a greater purpose is echoed in the story of Moses, who was separated from his people for a time before leading them to freedom.<p><b>for a while</b><br>This indicates a temporary situation, suggesting that the separation was not meant to be permanent. The temporary nature of trials is a recurring theme in Scripture, as seen in <a href="/2_corinthians/4-17.htm">2 Corinthians 4:17</a>, which speaks of "light and momentary troubles" achieving an eternal glory. It emphasizes the transient nature of earthly struggles in contrast to eternal outcomes.<p><b>so that you might have him back</b><br>The return of Onesimus is not just a physical return but a transformation. Onesimus is returning not merely as a slave but as a brother in Christ. This reflects the transformative power of the Gospel, which changes relationships and social structures. The reconciliation between Philemon and Onesimus is a microcosm of the reconciliation between God and humanity through Christ.<p><b>for good—</b><br>This phrase implies a permanent and positive change. The Greek word used here can mean both "forever" and "better," suggesting both a lasting relationship and an improved one. This echoes the eternal nature of the new covenant in Christ, as seen in <a href="/hebrews/9-15.htm">Hebrews 9:15</a>, where Christ is the mediator of a new covenant that is eternal. The transformation of Onesimus from a slave to a beloved brother is a type of the believer's transformation in Christ, from bondage to sin to freedom and eternal life.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/p/philemon.htm">Philemon</a></b><br>A Christian leader in Colossae, likely a wealthy man who hosted a house church. He is the recipient of Paul's letter.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/o/onesimus.htm">Onesimus</a></b><br>A slave who belonged to Philemon. He ran away and later became a Christian under Paul's mentorship.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/p/paul.htm">Paul</a></b><br>The apostle who wrote the letter to Philemon. He is in prison at the time of writing.<br><br>4. <b><a href="/topical/c/colossae.htm">Colossae</a></b><br>The city where Philemon lived and where the church met in his house.<br><br>5. <b><a href="/topical/t/the_separation.htm">The Separation</a></b><br>Refers to the time Onesimus was away from Philemon, which Paul suggests was part of God's providential plan.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/p/providence_in_separation.htm">Providence in Separation</a></b><br>God can use difficult or unexpected circumstances for His purposes. Onesimus's departure, though initially negative, led to his conversion and a deeper relationship with Philemon.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/transformation_through_christ.htm">Transformation through Christ</a></b><br>Onesimus's account is a testament to the transformative power of the Gospel. In Christ, he went from a runaway slave to a beloved brother.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/r/reconciliation_and_forgiveness.htm">Reconciliation and Forgiveness</a></b><br>The letter encourages Philemon to forgive Onesimus and accept him back, highlighting the Christian call to reconciliation.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_role_of_intercession.htm">The Role of Intercession</a></b><br>Paul acts as an intercessor for Onesimus, modeling how believers can advocate for one another in love and grace.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/e/eternal_perspective.htm">Eternal Perspective</a></b><br>Paul encourages Philemon to see beyond the temporary separation to the eternal relationship they now share in Christ.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_philemon_1.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Philemon 1</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_does_''voice_of_the_archangel''_mean.htm">What does it mean to hate evil and love good?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_does_rescuing_from_sin_mean.htm">What is secondary separation?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/jesus'_role_in_each_bible_book.htm">How is Jesus represented in each book of the Bible?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/why_did_paul_return_the_slave_to_philemon.htm">Philemon 1:12-16 - Why would Paul send a slave back to his master instead of urging Philemon to free him outright?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/philemon/1.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(15) <span class= "bld">For perhaps he therefore departed</span> (or, <span class= "ital">was parted</span>)<span class= "ital">.--This</span> is a further reason for sending Onesimus back. St. Paul now touches on Onesimus' "being parted" from Philemon, using a phrase not only (as has been noted) euphemistic, but also one which suggested that his running away was, however unconsciously, overruled by a higher hand. God, in His wisdom, "parted" him from Philemon "for a season, that he might receive him for ever." The phrase "for ever" is the word always used for "eternal." The contrast with "for a season" might be satisfied here by the merely relative sense of "perpetual" or "life-long service;" but, considering that the phrase is used in direct reference to the brotherhood of the Communion of Saints, it is better to take it in its absolute sense, of fellowship in the life eternal.<p><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/philemon/1.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 15.</span> - <span class="cmt_word">Therefore</span>; for this purpose (final cause). <span class="cmt_word">Departed for a season.</span> He was therefore parted from thee for a time (Revised Version). <span class="cmt_word">Forever</span>; everlastingly (accusative, not an adverb). The relation of master and slave would have been in any case, and would still be, terminated by death. But it was now replaced by a new relation of Christian brotherhood, which would be permanent - a great advantage. So Calvin, Grotius, and many others. Meyer's objection does not seem of much weight (compare the <span class="accented">Perpetua mancipia</span> of <a href="/exodus/21-6.htm">Exodus 21:6</a>; <a href="/deuteronomy/15-17.htm">Deuteronomy 15:17</a>). Baur thinks that in this verse he has reached the core of the Epistle - the ethical truth which it seeks to embody (but see Introduction: "Authenticity and Characteristics"). <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/philemon/1-15.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a></span><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div><span class="word">For</span><br /><span class="grk">γὰρ</span> <span class="translit">(gar)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunction<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_1063.htm">Strong's 1063: </a> </span><span class="str2">For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">perhaps</span><br /><span class="grk">τάχα</span> <span class="translit">(tacha)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adverb<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_5029.htm">Strong's 5029: </a> </span><span class="str2">Quickly, presently, perhaps. As if neuter plural of tachus; shortly, i.e. possibly.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">this is why</span><br /><span class="grk">διὰ</span> <span class="translit">(dia)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_1223.htm">Strong's 1223: </a> </span><span class="str2">A primary preposition denoting the channel of an act; through.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">he was separated [from you]</span><br /><span class="grk">ἐχωρίσθη</span> <span class="translit">(echōristhē)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Aorist Indicative Passive - 3rd Person Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_5563.htm">Strong's 5563: </a> </span><span class="str2">From chora; to place room between, i.e. Part; reflexively, to go away.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">for</span><br /><span class="grk">πρὸς</span> <span class="translit">(pros)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_4314.htm">Strong's 4314: </a> </span><span class="str2">To, towards, with. A strengthened form of pro; a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e. Toward.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">a while,</span><br /><span class="grk">ὥραν</span> <span class="translit">(hōran)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_5610.htm">Strong's 5610: </a> </span><span class="str2">Apparently a primary word; an 'hour'.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">so that</span><br /><span class="grk">ἵνα</span> <span class="translit">(hina)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunction<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_2443.htm">Strong's 2443: </a> </span><span class="str2">In order that, so that. Probably from the same as the former part of heautou; in order that.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">you might have him back</span><br /><span class="grk">ἀπέχῃς</span> <span class="translit">(apechēs)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Aorist Subjunctive Active - 2nd Person Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_568.htm">Strong's 568: </a> </span><span class="str2">To have in full, be far, it is enough. From apo and echo; to have out, i.e. Receive in full; to keep away, i.e. Be distant.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">for good—</span><br /><span class="grk">αἰώνιον</span> <span class="translit">(aiōnion)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adjective - Accusative Masculine Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_166.htm">Strong's 166: </a> </span><span class="str2">From aion; perpetual.</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/philemon/1-15.htm">Philemon 1:15 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/philemon/1-15.htm">Philemon 1:15 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/philemon/1-15.htm">Philemon 1:15 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/philemon/1-15.htm">Philemon 1:15 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/philemon/1-15.htm">Philemon 1:15 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/philemon/1-15.htm">Philemon 1:15 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/philemon/1-15.htm">Philemon 1:15 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/philemon/1-15.htm">Philemon 1:15 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/philemon/1-15.htm">Philemon 1:15 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/philemon/1-15.htm">Philemon 1:15 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/philemon/1-15.htm">NT Letters: Philemon 1:15 For perhaps he was therefore separated (Phm Phl) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/philemon/1-14.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Philemon 1:14"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Philemon 1:14" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/philemon/1-16.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Philemon 1:16"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Philemon 1:16" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>