8. There is something that you should do. And because of the authority I have in Christ, I feel free to command you to do it.
9. But I am not commanding you; I am asking you to do it out of love. I, Paul, am an old man now, and I am a prisoner for Christ Jesus.
10. I am asking you for my son Onesimus. He became my son while I was in prison.
11. In the past he was useless to you. But now he has become useful for both you and me.
12. I am sending him back to you, but it’s as hard as losing part of myself.
13. I would like to keep him here to help me while I am still in prison for telling the Good News. By helping me here, he would be representing you.
14. But I did not want to do anything without asking you first. Then whatever you do for me will be what you want to do, not what I forced you to do.
15. Onesimus was separated from you for a short time. Maybe that happened so that you could have him back forever,
16. not to be just a slave, but better than a slave, to be a dear brother. That’s what he is to me. And I know he will mean even more to you, both as your slave and as one who shares your faith in the Lord.
17. If you accept me as your friend, then accept Onesimus back. Welcome him like you would welcome me.
18. If he has done any wrong to you or owes you anything, charge that to me.