New King James Version

Philemon 1:12-22 New King James Version (NKJV)

12. I am sending him back. You therefore receive him, that is, my own heart,

13. whom I wished to keep with me, that on your behalf he might minister to me in my chains for the gospel.

14. But without your consent I wanted to do nothing, that your good deed might not be by compulsion, as it were, but voluntary.

15. For perhaps he departed for a while for this purpose, that you might receive him forever,

16. no longer as a slave but more than a slave—a beloved brother, especially to me but how much more to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord.

17. If then you count me as a partner, receive him as you would me.

18. But if he has wronged you or owes anything, put that on my account.

19. I, Paul, am writing with my own hand. I will repay—not to mention to you that you owe me even your own self besides.

20. Yes, brother, let me have joy from you in the Lord; refresh my heart in the Lord.

21. Having confidence in your obedience, I write to you, knowing that you will do even more than I say.

22. But, meanwhile, also prepare a guest room for me, for I trust that through your prayers I shall be granted to you.