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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Philemon 1:9 I prefer to appeal on the basis of love. For I, Paul, am now aged, and a prisoner of Christ Jesus as well.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/philemon/1-9.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/16/57_Phm_01_09.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Philemon 1:9 - Paul's Appeal for Onesimus" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="I prefer to appeal on the basis of love. For I, Paul, am now aged, and a prisoner of Christ Jesus as well." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/philemon/1-9.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/philemon/1-9.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/philemon/">Philemon</a> > <a href="/philemon/1.htm">Chapter 1</a> > Verse 9</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad9.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/philemon/1-8.htm" title="Philemon 1:8">◄</a> Philemon 1:9 <a href="/philemon/1-10.htm" title="Philemon 1:10">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<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"><a href="/niv/philemon/1.htm">New International Version</a> yet I prefer to appeal to you on the basis of love. It is as none other than Paul—an old man and now also a prisoner of Christ Jesus— <a href="/nlt/philemon/1.htm">New Living Translation</a> But because of our love, I prefer simply to ask you. Consider this as a request from me—Paul, an old man and now also a prisoner for the sake of Christ Jesus. <a href="/esv/philemon/1.htm">English Standard Version</a> yet for love’s sake I prefer to appeal to you—I, Paul, an old man and now a prisoner also for Christ Jesus— <a href="/bsb/philemon/1.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> I prefer to appeal on the basis of love. For I, Paul, am now aged, and a prisoner of Christ Jesus as well. <a href="/blb/philemon/1.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> rather, I exhort you for the sake of love, being such a one as Paul, now aged and also a prisoner of Christ Jesus. <a href="/kjv/philemon/1.htm">King James Bible</a> Yet for love's sake I rather beseech thee, being such an one as Paul the aged, and now also a prisoner of Jesus Christ. <a href="/nkjv/philemon/1.htm">New King James Version</a> yet for love’s sake I rather appeal to you—being such a one as Paul, the aged, and now also a prisoner of Jesus Christ— <a href="/nasb_/philemon/1.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> yet for love’s sake I rather appeal to you—since I am such a person as Paul, an old man, and now also a prisoner of Christ Jesus— <a href="/nasb/philemon/1.htm">NASB 1995</a> yet for love&#8217s sake I rather appeal to you— since I am such a person as Paul, the aged, and now also a prisoner of Christ Jesus— <a href="/nasb77/philemon/1.htm">NASB 1977 </a> yet for love’s sake I rather appeal to you—since I am such a person as Paul, the aged, and now also a prisoner of Christ Jesus— <a href="/lsb/philemon/1.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> yet for love’s sake I rather plead with you—since I am such a person as Paul, the aged, and now also a prisoner of Christ Jesus— <a href="/amp/philemon/1.htm">Amplified Bible</a> yet for love’s sake I prefer to appeal to you—since I am such a person as Paul, an old man, and now also a prisoner [for the sake] of Christ Jesus— <a href="/csb/philemon/1.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> I appeal to you, instead, on the basis of love. I, Paul, as an elderly man and now also as a prisoner of Christ Jesus, <a href="/hcsb/philemon/1.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> I appeal to you, instead, on the basis of love. I, Paul, as an elderly man and now also as a prisoner of Christ Jesus, <a href="/asv/philemon/1.htm">American Standard Version</a> yet for love's sake I rather beseech, being such a one as Paul the aged, and now a prisoner also of Christ Jesus: <a href="/cev/philemon/1.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> But I would rather ask you to do it simply because of love. Yes, as someone in jail for Christ, <a href="/erv/philemon/1.htm">English Revised Version</a> yet for love's sake I rather beseech, being such a one as Paul the aged, and now a prisoner also of Christ Jesus: <a href="/gwt/philemon/1.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> However, I would prefer to make an appeal on the basis of love. I, Paul, as an old man and now a prisoner for Christ Jesus, <a href="/gnt/philemon/1.htm">Good News Translation</a> But because I love you, I make a request instead. I do this even though I am Paul, the ambassador of Christ Jesus, and at present also a prisoner for his sake. <a href="/isv/philemon/1.htm">International Standard Version</a> I prefer to make my appeal on the basis of love. I, Paul, as an old man and now a prisoner of the Messiah Jesus, <a href="/msb/philemon/1.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> I prefer to appeal on the basis of love. For I, Paul, am now aged, and a prisoner of Jesus Christ as well. <a href="/net/philemon/1.htm">NET Bible</a> I would rather appeal to you on the basis of love--I, Paul, an old man and even now a prisoner for the sake of Christ Jesus-- <a href="/nheb/philemon/1.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> yet on the basis of love I rather appeal, being such a one as Paul, the aged, but also a prisoner of Christ Jesus. <a href="/wbt/philemon/1.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> Yet for love's sake I rather beseech thee, being such one as Paul the aged, and now also a prisoner of Jesus Christ. <a href="/wey/philemon/1.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> it is for love's sake that--instead of that--although I am none other than Paul the aged, and am now also a prisoner for Christ Jesus, <a href="/web/philemon/1.htm">World English Bible</a> yet for love’s sake I rather appeal to you, being such a one as Paul, the aged, but also a prisoner of Jesus Christ. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/philemon/1.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> because of the love I rather plead, being such a one as Paul the aged, and now also a prisoner of Jesus Christ; <a href="/blb/philemon/1.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> rather, I exhort you for the sake of love, being such a one as Paul, now aged and also a prisoner of Christ Jesus. <a href="/ylt/philemon/1.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> because of the love I rather entreat, being such an one as Paul the aged, and now also a prisoner of Jesus Christ; <a href="/slt/philemon/1.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> By love I beseech rather, being such as Paul an aged man, and now also the imprisoned of Jesus Christ.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/philemon/1.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> For charity sake I rather beseech, whereas thou art such a one, as Paul an old man, and now a prisoner also of Jesus Christ. <a href="/cpdv/philemon/1.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> but I beg you instead, for the sake of charity, since you are so much like Paul: an old man and now also a prisoner of Jesus Christ. <a href="/nabre/philemon/1.htm">New American Bible</a> I rather urge you out of love, being as I am, Paul, an old man, and now also a prisoner for Christ Jesus. <a href="/nrsvce/philemon/1.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> yet I would rather appeal to you on the basis of love—and I, Paul, do this as an old man, and now also as a prisoner of Christ Jesus.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/philemon/1.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> And for love’s sake I earnestly beseech you; even I, Paul, an old man as you know, and now also a prisoner for the sake of Jesus Christ. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/philemon/1.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> But for love's sake, I beg of you, I Paul, who am The Elder, as you know, and also a prisoner of Yeshua The Messiah,<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/philemon/1.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> yet, on account of my love, I rather exhort you, being such a one as Paul the aged, and now also a prisoner on account of Jesus Christ. <a href="/godbey/philemon/1.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> on account of the divine love, I the more exhort you, being such as Paul the aged, and now also the prisoner of Jesus Christ. <a href="/haweis/philemon/1.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> I rather for love?s sake entreat, being such as Paul the aged, and now also a prisoner for Jesus Christ. <a href="/mace/philemon/1.htm">Mace New Testament</a> I had rather apply to your benevolent temper, and desire you would regard the years of Paul, who am now also a prisoner for Jesus Christ, <a href="/wey/philemon/1.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> it is for love's sake that--instead of that--although I am none other than Paul the aged, and am now also a prisoner for Christ Jesus, <a href="/worrell/philemon/1.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> yet for love's sake I rather exhort, being such a one as Paul an aged man, and now also a prisoner of Christ Jesus: <a href="/worsley/philemon/1.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> I would rather intreat thee out of love to me, being such a one as Paul the aged, and now a prisoner too for the sake of Jesus Christ. <a href="/parallel/philemon/1-9.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BS2bNjCPoic?start=59" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/philemon/1.htm">Paul's Appeal for Onesimus</a> 8So although in Christ I am bold enough to order you to do what is proper, 9<a href="/greek/3123.htm" title="3123: mallon (Adv) -- More, rather. Neuter of the comparative of the same as malista; more) or rather."></a> <a href="/greek/3870.htm" title="3870: parakalō (V-PIA-1S) -- From para and kaleo; to call near, i.e. Invite, invoke.">I prefer to appeal</a> <a href="/greek/1223.htm" title="1223: dia (Prep) -- A primary preposition denoting the channel of an act; through.">on the basis of</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tēn (Art-AFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/26.htm" title="26: agapēn (N-AFS) -- From agapao; love, i.e. Affection or benevolence; specially a love-feast.">love.</a> <a href="/greek/5613.htm" title="5613: hōs (Adv) -- Probably adverb of comparative from hos; which how, i.e. In that manner.">For</a> <a href="/greek/5108.htm" title="5108: toioutos (DPro-NMS) -- (including the other inflections); from toi and houtos; truly this, i.e. Of this sort (to denote character or individuality).">I,</a> <a href="/greek/3972.htm" title="3972: Paulos (N-NMS) -- Paul, Paulus. Of Latin origin; Paulus, the name of a Roman and of an apostle.">Paul,</a> <a href="/greek/1510.htm" title="1510: ōn (V-PPA-NMS) -- I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.">am</a> <a href="/greek/3570.htm" title="3570: nyni (Adv) -- A prolonged form of nun for emphasis; just now.">now</a> <a href="/greek/4246.htm" title="4246: presbytēs (N-NMS) -- An old man, an ambassador. From the same as presbuteros; an old man.">aged,</a> <a href="/greek/1161.htm" title="1161: de (Conj) -- A primary particle; but, and, etc.">and</a> <a href="/greek/1198.htm" title="1198: desmios (N-NMS) -- One bound, a prisoner. From desmon; a captive.">a prisoner</a> <a href="/greek/5547.htm" title="5547: Christou (N-GMS) -- Anointed One; the Messiah, the Christ. From chrio; Anointed One, i.e. The Messiah, an epithet of Jesus.">of Christ</a> <a href="/greek/2424.htm" title="2424: Iēsou (N-GMS) -- Of Hebrew origin; Jesus, the name of our Lord and two other Israelites.">Jesus</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">as well.</a> 10I appeal to you for my child Onesimus, whose father I became while I was in chains.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/2_corinthians/5-20.htm">2 Corinthians 5:20</a> Therefore we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making His appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ: Be reconciled to God. <a href="/1_corinthians/4-21.htm">1 Corinthians 4:21</a> Which do you prefer? Shall I come to you with a rod, or in love and with a gentle spirit? <a href="/2_corinthians/10-1.htm">2 Corinthians 10:1</a> Now by the mildness and gentleness of Christ, I appeal to you—I, Paul, who am humble when face to face with you, but bold when away. <a href="/galatians/5-13.htm">Galatians 5:13</a> For you, brothers, were called to freedom; but do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh. Rather, serve one another in love. <a href="/philippians/2-1.htm">Philippians 2:1-4</a> Therefore if you have any encouragement in Christ, if any comfort from His love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any affection and compassion, / then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being united in spirit and purpose. / Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves. ... <a href="/1_peter/5-1.htm">1 Peter 5:1-3</a> As a fellow elder, a witness of Christ’s sufferings, and a partaker of the glory to be revealed, I appeal to the elders among you: / Be shepherds of God’s flock that is among you, watching over them not out of compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not out of greed, but out of eagerness; / not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. <a href="/romans/12-1.htm">Romans 12:1</a> Therefore I urge you, brothers, on account of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. <a href="/ephesians/4-1.htm">Ephesians 4:1-2</a> As a prisoner in the Lord, then, I urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling you have received: / with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-7.htm">1 Thessalonians 2:7</a> On the contrary, we were gentle among you, like a nursing mother caring for her children. <a href="/2_timothy/2-24.htm">2 Timothy 2:24-25</a> And a servant of the Lord must not be quarrelsome, but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, and forbearing. / He must gently reprove those who oppose him, in the hope that God may grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth. <a href="/matthew/11-29.htm">Matthew 11:29</a> Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. <a href="/colossians/3-12.htm">Colossians 3:12-13</a> Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with hearts of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. / Bear with one another and forgive any complaint you may have against someone else. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. <a href="/titus/3-2.htm">Titus 3:2</a> to malign no one, and to be peaceable and gentle, showing full consideration to everyone. <a href="/hebrews/13-19.htm">Hebrews 13:19</a> And I especially urge you to pray that I may be restored to you soon. <a href="/1_john/4-7.htm">1 John 4:7</a> Beloved, let us love one another, because love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>Yet for love's sake I rather beseech you, being such an one as Paul the aged, and now also a prisoner of Jesus Christ.love's sake.<a href="/romans/12-1.htm">Romans 12:1</a> I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.<a href="/2_corinthians/5-20.htm">2 Corinthians 5:20</a> Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.<a href="/2_corinthians/6-1.htm">2 Corinthians 6:1</a> We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain.Paul.<a href="/psalms/71-9.htm">Psalm 71:9,18</a> Cast me not off in the time of old age; forsake me not when my strength faileth… <a href="/proverbs/16-31.htm">Proverbs 16:31</a> The hoary head is a crown of glory, if it be found in the way of righteousness.<a href="/isaiah/46-4.htm">Isaiah 46:4</a> And even to your old age I am he; and even to hoar hairs will I carry you: I have made, and I will bear; even I will carry, and will deliver you.prisoner.<a href="/philemon/1-1.htm">Philemon 1:1</a> Paul, a prisoner of Jesus Christ, and Timothy our brother, unto Philemon our dearly beloved, and fellowlabourer,<a href="/ephesians/3-1.htm">Ephesians 3:1</a> For this cause I Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles,<a href="/ephesians/4-1.htm">Ephesians 4:1</a> I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called,<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/titus/2-3.htm">Aged</a> <a href="/philemon/1-8.htm">Although</a> <a href="/ephesians/6-20.htm">Ambassador</a> <a href="/1_timothy/5-1.htm">Appeal</a> <a href="/titus/3-5.htm">Basis</a> <a href="/2_thessalonians/2-1.htm">Beg</a> <a href="/2_thessalonians/2-1.htm">Beseech</a> <a href="/philemon/1-8.htm">Christ</a> <a href="/1_timothy/5-1.htm">Entreat</a> <a href="/titus/2-15.htm">Exhort</a> <a href="/titus/1-14.htm">Instead</a> <a href="/philemon/1-6.htm">Jesus</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/13-5.htm">Love's</a> <a href="/philemon/1-8.htm">Order</a> <a href="/philemon/1-1.htm">Paul</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/5-8.htm">Prefer</a> <a href="/philemon/1-1.htm">Prisoner</a> <a href="/titus/1-8.htm">Rather</a> <a href="/2_thessalonians/3-12.htm">Request</a> <a href="/philemon/1-6.htm">Sake</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/hebrews/8-13.htm">Aged</a> <a href="/philemon/1-19.htm">Although</a> <a href="/proverbs/13-17.htm">Ambassador</a> <a href="/philemon/1-10.htm">Appeal</a> <a href="/hebrews/7-11.htm">Basis</a> <a href="/philemon/1-10.htm">Beg</a> <a href="/philemon/1-10.htm">Beseech</a> <a href="/philemon/1-20.htm">Christ</a> <a href="/philemon/1-10.htm">Entreat</a> <a href="/philemon/1-10.htm">Exhort</a> <a href="/hebrews/7-11.htm">Instead</a> <a href="/philemon/1-23.htm">Jesus</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/13-5.htm">Love's</a> <a href="/philemon/1-13.htm">Order</a> <a href="/philemon/1-19.htm">Paul</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/21-16.htm">Prefer</a> <a href="/philemon/1-23.htm">Prisoner</a> <a href="/philemon/1-16.htm">Rather</a> <a href="/philemon/1-10.htm">Request</a> <a href="/philemon/1-20.htm">Sake</a><div class="vheading2">Philemon 1</div>1. <a href="/philemon/1-1.htm">Paul rejoices to hear of the faith and love of Philemon, </a> 8. <a href="/philemon/1-8.htm">whom he desires to forgive his servant Onesimus, and lovingly to receive him again.</a> </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>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <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> </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>I prefer to appeal on the basis of love. Paul's approach in this letter is notable for its emphasis on love rather than authority. In the Greco-Roman world, appeals based on love were less common than those based on power or status. Paul, an apostle with the authority to command, chooses instead to appeal to Philemon's sense of Christian love and fellowship. This reflects the transformative power of the Gospel, which prioritizes love as the highest virtue (<a href="/1_corinthians/13-13.htm">1 Corinthians 13:13</a>). It also echoes Jesus' teachings on love as the fulfillment of the law (<a href="/matthew/22-37.htm">Matthew 22:37-40</a>).For I, Paul, am now aged, Paul refers to himself as "aged," which suggests a level of maturity and experience. This term may indicate that Paul is in his late 50s or early 60s, a significant age in the ancient world where life expectancy was lower. His age adds weight to his appeal, as elders were respected figures in both Jewish and Greco-Roman cultures. This respect for elders is also seen in the Old Testament, where wisdom and age are often linked (<a href="/proverbs/16-31.htm">Proverbs 16:31</a>).and a prisoner of Christ Jesus as well. Paul's imprisonment is both literal and metaphorical. Literally, he is under house arrest in Rome, as described in <a href="/acts/28-16.htm">Acts 28:16-31</a>. Metaphorically, he considers himself a prisoner of Christ, bound by his commitment to the Gospel. This dual meaning underscores his dedication and the sacrifices he makes for his faith. His imprisonment serves as a powerful testament to his sincerity and the seriousness of his appeal. The concept of being a "prisoner of Christ" also highlights the theme of spiritual freedom found in Christ, contrasting with physical captivity (<a href="/galatians/5.htm">Galatians 5:1</a>).<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/p/paul.htm">Paul</a> The apostle who authored the letter to Philemon. At this point, he is an older man and a prisoner for the sake of the Gospel. 2. <a href="/topical/p/philemon.htm">Philemon</a> A Christian leader and the recipient of the letter. He is known for his love and faith toward Jesus and the saints. 3. <a href="/topical/o/onesimus.htm">Onesimus</a> A slave who belonged to Philemon and had run away. He became a Christian through Paul's ministry. 4. <a href="/topical/r/rome.htm">Rome</a> The place where Paul was imprisoned when he wrote this letter. 5. <a href="/topical/c/colossae.htm">Colossae</a> The city where Philemon lived and where the church met in his home.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/a/appeal_on_the_basis_of_love.htm">Appeal on the Basis of Love</a> Paul chooses to appeal to Philemon out of love rather than authority. This teaches us the importance of love as a guiding principle in our interactions with others. <a href="/topical/t/the_role_of_humility.htm">The Role of Humility</a> Paul, despite his apostolic authority, approaches Philemon with humility. This demonstrates the power of humility in leadership and relationships. <a href="/topical/t/the_power_of_transformation.htm">The Power of Transformation</a> Onesimus's transformation from a runaway slave to a brother in Christ highlights the transformative power of the Gospel. <a href="/topical/i/intercession_for_others.htm">Intercession for Others</a> Paul acts as an intercessor for Onesimus, showing the importance of advocating for others within the Christian community. <a href="/topical/t/the_cost_of_discipleship.htm">The Cost of Discipleship</a> Paul's imprisonment for Christ reminds us of the sacrifices involved in following Jesus and the call to remain faithful despite hardships.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_philemon_1.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Philemon 1</a> <a href="/q/what_was_paul's_age_at_death.htm">What was Paul's age at death?</a> <a href="/q/evidence_for_paul's_imprisonment_claims.htm">Philemon 1:1, 9, 10 – Is there external historical or archeological evidence confirming Paul’s imprisonment and authorship claims? </a> <a href="/q/who_is_the_author_of_philemon.htm">Who is the author of Philemon?</a> <a href="/q/what_does_'hold_to_jesus'_testimony'_mean.htm">Who is the author of Philemon?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/philemon/1.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 9. - Being such a one as Paul the aged; a veteran. Theodoret comments thus: "For he who hears Paul, hears the preacher of the whole world, the traverser of land and sea, the chosen vessel, and other things besides he is.... He adds also 'the aged,' showing the gray hairs which have grown during his labors." "Non aetatem, sed offieium" (Calvin). Presbutes may mean "an ambassador" - "the ambassador of Christ Jesus, and now also his prisoner," as in <a href="/ephesians/6-20.htm">Ephesians 6:20</a> (and see Ephesians 3:1 and Ephesians 4:1 of the same Epistle. A prisoner of Jesus Christ; i.e. for his cause. The apostle was in custody at Rome, owing to a long suspension of his trial, for causes not known to us. "Have regard for Paul; have regard for my bonds, which I wear as a preacher of the truth" (Theodoret). "Great reverence is due to these who endure sufferings for the most honorable causes" (Grotius). <a href="/commentaries/philemon/1-9.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>I prefer to appeal παρακαλῶ (parakalō) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3870.htm">Strong's 3870: </a> From para and kaleo; to call near, i.e. Invite, invoke. on the basis of διὰ (dia) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1223.htm">Strong's 1223: </a> A primary preposition denoting the channel of an act; through. love. ἀγάπην (agapēn) Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_26.htm">Strong's 26: </a> From agapao; love, i.e. Affection or benevolence; specially a love-feast. [For] ὡς (hōs) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_5613.htm">Strong's 5613: </a> Probably adverb of comparative from hos; which how, i.e. In that manner. I, τοιοῦτος (toioutos) Demonstrative Pronoun - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5108.htm">Strong's 5108: </a> (including the other inflections); from toi and houtos; truly this, i.e. Of this sort (to denote character or individuality). Paul, Παῦλος (Paulos) Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3972.htm">Strong's 3972: </a> Paul, Paulus. Of Latin origin; Paulus, the name of a Roman and of an apostle. am ὢν (ōn) Verb - Present Participle Active - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1510.htm">Strong's 1510: </a> I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist. now νυνὶ (nyni) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_3570.htm">Strong's 3570: </a> A prolonged form of nun for emphasis; just now. aged, πρεσβύτης (presbytēs) Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4246.htm">Strong's 4246: </a> An old man, an ambassador. From the same as presbuteros; an old man. and δὲ (de) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1161.htm">Strong's 1161: </a> A primary particle; but, and, etc. a prisoner δέσμιος (desmios) Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1198.htm">Strong's 1198: </a> One bound, a prisoner. From desmon; a captive. of Christ Χριστοῦ (Christou) Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5547.htm">Strong's 5547: </a> Anointed One; the Messiah, the Christ. From chrio; Anointed One, i.e. The Messiah, an epithet of Jesus. Jesus Ἰησοῦ (Iēsou) Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2424.htm">Strong's 2424: </a> Of Hebrew origin; Jesus, the name of our Lord and two other Israelites. as well. καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/philemon/1-9.htm">Philemon 1:9 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/philemon/1-9.htm">Philemon 1:9 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/philemon/1-9.htm">Philemon 1:9 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/philemon/1-9.htm">Philemon 1:9 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/philemon/1-9.htm">Philemon 1:9 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/philemon/1-9.htm">Philemon 1:9 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/philemon/1-9.htm">Philemon 1:9 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/philemon/1-9.htm">Philemon 1:9 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/philemon/1-9.htm">Philemon 1:9 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/philemon/1-9.htm">Philemon 1:9 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/philemon/1-9.htm">NT Letters: Philemon 1:9 Yet for love's sake I rather beg (Phm Phl) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/philemon/1-8.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Philemon 1:8"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Philemon 1:8" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/philemon/1-10.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Philemon 1:10"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Philemon 1:10" /></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>