13. I considered keeping him with me so that he might serve me in your place during my time in prison because of the gospel.
14. However, I didn’t want to do anything without your consent so that your act of kindness would occur willingly and not under pressure.
15. Maybe this is the reason that Onesimus was separated from you for a while so that you might have him back forever—
16. no longer as a slave but more than a slave—that is, as a dearly loved brother. He is especially a dearly loved brother to me. How much more can he become a brother to you, personally and spiritually in the Lord!
17. So, if you really consider me a partner, welcome Onesimus as if you were welcoming me.
18. If he has harmed you in any way or owes you money, charge it to my account.
19. I, Paul, will pay it back to you (I’m writing this with my own hand). Of course, I won’t mention that you owe me your life.
20. Yes, brother, I want this favor from you in the Lord! Refresh my heart in Christ.
21. I’m writing to you, confident of your obedience and knowing that you will do more than what I ask.
22. Also, one more thing—prepare a guest room for me. I hope that I will be released from prison to be with you because of your prayers.
23. Epaphras, who is in prison with me for the cause of Christ Jesus, greets you,
24. as well as my coworkers Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke.
25. May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.