Philemon 1:8

Paul Makes an Appeal for Onesimus

8 Because of the authority Christ has given me, I could be bold. I could order you to do what you should do anyway.

Philemon 1:8 Meaning and Commentary

Philemon 1:8

Wherefore, though I might be much bold in Christ
Or use much freedom of speech in the name of Christ, as an ambassador of his, and great authority as his apostle, which was given him for edification:

to enjoin thee that which is convenient;
which became him as a believer in Christ, and a minister of the Gospel; which was his duty, and was obligatory upon him, agreeable to the doctrines of Christ; who taught men to love their enemies, to be reconciled to their brethren, that had offended them, especially when they repented; and therefore it was fit and proper that he should receive his servant again, since God had called him by his grace, and given him repentance for his sins: upon this foot the apostle could have commanded him, as he did in other cases, ( 2 Thessalonians 3:6 2 Thessalonians 3:12 ) , but he chose not to address him in an authoritative way, but by way of entreaty, as follows.

Philemon 1:8 In-Context

6 I pray that you will be active in sharing what you believe. Then you will completely understand every good thing we have in Christ.

7 Your love has given me great joy. It has cheered me up. My brother, you have renewed the hearts of God's people.

8 Because of the authority Christ has given me, I could be bold. I could order you to do what you should do anyway.

9 But I make my appeal to you on the basis of our love for each other. I, Paul, am an old man. I am now also a prisoner because of Christ Jesus.

10 I make an appeal to you for my son Onesimus. He became a son to me while I was being held by chains.