Philemon 1:7 - Printer Friendly

ESV: For I have derived much joy and comfort from your love, my brother, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you.

NIV: Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the Lord's people.

NASB: For I have had great joy and comfort in your love, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you, brother.

CSB: For I have great joy and encouragement from your love, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you, brother.

NLT: Your love has given me much joy and comfort, my brother, for your kindness has often refreshed the hearts of God’s people.

KJV: For we have great joy and consolation in thy love, because the bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee, brother.

NKJV: For we have great joy and consolation in your love, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed by you, brother.

In verse 7, Paul refers to the same love he mentioned in verse 5. This is from the Greek agape, a love focused on others, which Philemon had previously shared with Paul by supporting him and other believers. This genuine concern gave Paul joy, comfort, and encouragement.

Paul's mention of refreshing the hearts of the saints probably included both spiritual encouragement and financial generosity. Philemon hosted the Colossian church in his home (Philemon 1:2) and had helped Paul in the past. Philemon had also influenced his own family, as his wife and son were considered faithful followers of Christ (Philemon 1:2). Though Philemon was unlikely an elder or deacon in the church, his faithful service to God and to others was highly commendable.

Verse 7 is the end of Paul's early praise of Philemon. In the next verses, he will make his plea for Onesimus to be forgiven and freed from slavery. Just as Philemon had blessed Paul and the church, Paul anticipated that Philemon would bless Onesimus in a similar way.

Philemon 1:4–7 describes Paul’s positive views of Philemon. Paul says he not only thanks God for Philemon, but does so always. Paul praises Philemon’s selfless acts of love and generosity, especially those towards fellow Christians. This is meant to set the stage for Paul’s upcoming request: that Philemon forgive and free his runaway slave, Onesimus.

Philemon is a letter from Paul, regarding a runaway slave named Onesimus. Paul respectfully requests that Philemon forgive his runaway slave, free him, and allow him to serve Christ without restrictions. Philemon was a prominent figure in the church of Colossae. Paul goes so far as to ask Philemon to charge any debts owed by Onesimus to Paul himself.

Philemon is short enough that it only contains a single chapter. Because Paul knows Philemon personally, and has only positive things to say about him, there is no need for a lengthy discussion. Paul appeals to Philemon to forgive and release his runaway slave, Onesimus. Onesimus, a convert to Christianity, seems be the one sent to deliver this letter to his former master.

Philemon is one of the shorter books in the Bible, but it contains some important information. The Christian concept of slavery cannot be understood without a proper review of this letter. Paul recognizes the facts of slavery in his era, and does not command Philemon to release Onesimus. However, he does appeal to the unity we share in Christ as a reason for Philemon to set this man free.

Accessed 5/8/2024 5:00:30 AM