15 For this perhaps is why (A)he was parted from you for a while, that you might have him back forever, 16 (B)no longer as a bondservant[a] but more than a bondservant, as (C)a beloved brother—especially to me, but how much more to you, (D)both in the flesh and in the Lord.

17 So if you consider me (E)your partner, receive him as you would receive me.

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Footnotes

  1. Philemon 1:16 For the contextual rendering of the Greek word doulos, see Preface; twice in this verse

15 For perhaps this is why he was separated from you for a brief time, so that you might get him back permanently, 16 no longer as a slave, but more than a slave—as a dearly loved brother. He is especially so to me, but how much more to you, both in the flesh(A) and in the Lord.(B)

17 So if you consider me a partner, welcome(C) him as you would me.

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