New International Version no longer as a slave, but better than a slave, as a dear brother. He is very dear to me but even dearer to you, both as a fellow man and as a brother in the Lord. New Living Translation He is no longer like a slave to you. He is more than a slave, for he is a beloved brother, especially to me. Now he will mean much more to you, both as a man and as a brother in the Lord. English Standard Version no longer as a bondservant but more than a bondservant, as a beloved brother—especially to me, but how much more to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord. Berean Standard Bible no longer as a slave, but better than a slave, as a beloved brother. He is especially beloved to me, but even more so to you, both in person and in the Lord. Berean Literal Bible no longer as a slave, but above a slave, a beloved brother—especially to me, but how much more to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord. King James Bible Not now as a servant, but above a servant, a brother beloved, specially to me, but how much more unto thee, both in the flesh, and in the Lord? New King James Version 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. New American Standard Bible 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. NASB 1995 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. NASB 1977 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. Legacy Standard Bible 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. Amplified Bible no longer as a slave, but [as someone] more than a slave, as a brother [in Christ], especially dear to me, but how much more to you, both in the flesh [as a servant] and in the Lord [as a fellow believer]. Berean Annotated Bible no longer as a slave {doulon}, but better than a slave, as a beloved {agapēton} brother. He is especially beloved to me, but even more so to you, both in person and in the Lord {Kyriō}. Christian Standard Bible no longer as a slave, but more than a slave—as a dearly loved brother. He is especially so to me, but how much more to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord. Holman Christian Standard Bible no longer as a slave, but more than a slave—as a dearly loved brother. He is especially so to me, but even more to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord. American Standard Version no longer as a servant, but more than a servant, a brother beloved, specially to me, but how much rather to thee, both in the flesh and in the Lord. Contemporary English Version but not as a slave. Onesimus is much more than a slave. To me he is a dear friend, but to you he is even more, both as a person and as a follower of the Lord. English Revised Version no longer as a servant, but more than a servant, a brother beloved, specially to me, but how much rather to thee, both in the flesh and in the Lord. GOD'S WORD® Translation no longer as a slave but better than a slave-as a dear brother. He is especially dear to me, but even more so to you, both as a person and as a Christian. Good News Translation And now he is not just a slave, but much more than a slave: he is a dear brother in Christ. How much he means to me! And how much more he will mean to you, both as a slave and as a brother in the Lord! International Standard Version no longer as a slave but better than a slave—as a dear brother, especially to me, but even more so to you, both as a person and as a believer. NET Bible no longer as a slave, but more than a slave, as a dear brother. He is especially so to me, and even more so to you now, both humanly speaking and in the Lord. New Heart English Bible no longer as a slave, but more than a slave, a beloved brother, especially to me, but how much rather to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord. Webster's Bible Translation Not now as a servant, but above a servant, a brother beloved, specially to me, but how much more to thee, both in the flesh, and in the Lord? Weymouth New Testament no longer as a slave, but as something better than a slave--a brother peculiarly dear to me, and even dearer to you, both as a servant and as a fellow Christian. Majority Text Translations Majority Standard Bibleno longer as a slave, but better than a slave, as a beloved brother. He is especially beloved to me, but even more so to you, both in person and in the Lord. World English Bible no longer as a slave, but more than a slave, a beloved brother—especially to me, but how much rather to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord. Literal Translations Literal Standard Versionno longer as a servant, but above a servant—a beloved brother, especially to me, and how much more to you, both in the flesh and in the LORD! Berean Literal Bible no longer as a slave, but above a slave, a beloved brother—especially to me, but how much more to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord. Young's Literal Translation no more as a servant, but above a servant -- a brother beloved, especially to me, and how much more to thee, both in the flesh and in the Lord! Smith's Literal Translation No more as a servant, but above a servant, a dearly beloved brother, especially to me, and how much rather to thee, also in the flesh, and in the Lord? Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleNot now as a servant, but instead of a servant, a most dear brother, especially to me: but how much more to thee both in the flesh and in the Lord? Catholic Public Domain Version no longer as a servant, but, in place of a servant, a most beloved brother, especially to me: but how much so more to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord! New American Bible no longer as a slave but more than a slave, a brother, beloved especially to me, but even more so to you, as a man and in the Lord. New Revised Standard Version 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. Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleHenceforth not as a servant, but more than a servant, a brother beloved, specially to me, and much more to you, both in the flesh and in our LORD. Aramaic Bible in Plain English Not as a Servant from now on, but more than a Servant; as my particularly beloved brother, how much more so yours, both in the flesh and in Our Lord? NT Translations Anderson New Testamentno longer as a servant, but above a servant, a brother beloved, especially by me, and how much more by you, both in the flesh and in the Lord. Godbey New Testament no longer as a slave, but more than a slave, a brother beloved, especially to me, and much more to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord: Haweis New Testament no longer as a slave, but above a slave, as a brother beloved, especially by me, but how much more by thee, both in the flesh, and in the Lord? Mace New Testament not as a slave, but in another quality, as a dear brother whom I particularly value, but much more should you, both as he is your servant, and as he is a christian. Weymouth New Testament no longer as a slave, but as something better than a slave--a brother peculiarly dear to me, and even dearer to you, both as a servant and as a fellow Christian. Worrell New Testament no longer as a slave, but above a slave, a brother beloved, especially to me, but how much more to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord! Worsley New Testament not now as a servant, but above a servant, a dear brother, especially to me, and how much more to thee both in the flesh and in the Lord. Additional Translations ... Audio Bible (Voice ▾ Musical ▾) Context Paul's Appeal for Onesimus…15For perhaps this is why he was separated from you for a while, so that you might have him back for good— 16no longer as a slave, but better than a slave, as a beloved brother. He is especially beloved to me, but even more so to you, both in person and in the Lord. 17So if you consider me a partner, receive him as you would receive me.… Cross References no longer as a slave, 1 Corinthians 7:22 For he who was a slave when he was called by the Lord is the Lord’s freedman. Conversely, he who was a free man when he was called is Christ’s slave. Galatians 3:28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. but better than a slave, 1 Corinthians 7:23 You were bought at a price; do not become slaves of men. Ephesians 6:9 And masters, do the same for your slaves. Give up your use of threats, because you know that He who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and there is no favoritism with Him. as a beloved brother. Colossians 4:9 With him I am sending Onesimus, our faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They will tell you about everything here. Ephesians 6:21 Tychicus, the beloved brother and faithful servant in the Lord, will tell you everything, so that you also may know about me and what I am doing. He is especially beloved to me, 1 Thessalonians 2:8 We cared so deeply that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God, but our own lives as well. That is how beloved you have become to us. Philippians 1:8 God is my witness how I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus. but even more so to you, 2 Corinthians 7:15 And his affection for you is even greater when he remembers that you were all obedient as you welcomed him with fear and trembling. 2 Corinthians 12:15 And for the sake of your souls, I will most gladly spend my money and myself. If I love you more, will you love me less? both in person and in the Lord. 2 John 1:12 I have many things to write to you, but I would prefer not to do so with paper and ink. Instead, I hope to come and speak with you face to face, so that our joy may be complete. Colossians 4:7 Tychicus will tell you all the news about me. He is a beloved brother, a faithful minister, and a fellow servant in the Lord. Colossians 3:11 Here there is no Greek or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave, or free, but Christ is all and is in all. 1 Corinthians 12:13 For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body, whether Jews or Greeks, slave or free, and we were all given one Spirit to drink. Romans 12:5 so in Christ we who are many are one body, and each member belongs to one another. Ephesians 2:19 Therefore you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of God’s household, Treasury of Scripture Not now as a servant, but above a servant, a brother beloved, specially to me, but how much more to you, both in the flesh, and in the Lord? a brother. Matthew 23:8 But be not ye called Rabbi: for one is your Master, even Christ; and all ye are brethren. Acts 9:17 And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost. Galatians 4:28,29 Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, are the children of promise… both in. Ephesians 6:5-7 Servants, be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ; … Colossians 3:22 Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God: Jump to Previous Beloved Better Bondman Christian Dear Dearer Especially Fellow Flesh Longer Rather Servant Slave Something SpeciallyJump to Next Beloved Better Bondman Christian Dear Dearer Especially Fellow Flesh Longer Rather Servant Slave Something SpeciallyPhilemon 1 1. Paul rejoices to hear of the faith and love of Philemon, 8. whom he desires to forgive his servant Onesimus, and lovingly to receive him again. no longer as a slave, Onesimus was returning to Philemon after coming to faith through Paul’s ministry. Paul asks that his former status not define how he is received. 1Co 7:22 For he who was a slave when he was called by the Lord… but better than a slave, Onesimus now bears a dignity and responsibility that surpasses his place within the household as a servant. 1Co 7:23 You were bought at a price; do not become slaves of men. as a beloved brother. Through their shared faith in Christ, Philemon and Onesimus belong to the same spiritual family. Col 4:9 With him I am sending Onesimus, our faithful… He is especially beloved to me, Onesimus had become a faithful helper and dear companion to Paul during his imprisonment. 1Th 2:8 We cared so deeply that we were delighted to share… but even more so to you, Philemon had the greater opportunity and obligation to receive Onesimus with forgiveness and Christian affection. 2Co 7:15 And his affection for you is even greater… both in person and in the Lord. Their renewed relationship was to be expressed in daily life as well as in their shared standing before Christ. 2Jn 1:12 I have many things to write to you, but I would prefer not… Persons / Places / Events 1. PhilemonA Christian leader in Colossae, likely a wealthy man who hosted a house church. Paul addresses him as a beloved friend and fellow worker. 2. Onesimus A slave who belonged to Philemon. He ran away and met Paul, who led him to Christ. Paul is sending him back to Philemon with this letter. 3. Paul The apostle who wrote this letter while imprisoned. He appeals to Philemon on behalf of Onesimus, urging a transformation in their relationship. 4. Colossae The city where Philemon lived and where the church met in his home. It was a significant center for early Christianity. 5. The Early Church The context in which this letter was written, where issues of slavery and brotherhood in Christ were being navigated. Teaching Points Transformation in ChristOnesimus's status is transformed from a slave to a brother in Christ. This reflects the transformative power of the Gospel, which changes relationships and social structures. Christian Brotherhood Paul emphasizes that in Christ, social distinctions are secondary to spiritual kinship. This calls believers to view each other as family, transcending societal norms. Forgiveness and Reconciliation Philemon is encouraged to forgive Onesimus and welcome him back not just as a slave but as a brother. This models the Christian call to reconciliation and forgiveness. The Role of Advocacy Paul acts as an advocate for Onesimus, demonstrating the importance of standing up for others and interceding on their behalf within the Christian community. Living Out Faith in Relationships The letter challenges believers to live out their faith in practical ways, especially in how they treat others, reflecting Christ's love and grace. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1. What is the meaning of Philemon 1:16?2. How does Philemon 1:16 redefine Onesimus' relationship with Philemon as a "beloved brother"? 3. What does Philemon 1:16 teach about Christian equality and fellowship? 4. How can we apply the principle of brotherhood in Philemon 1:16 today? 5. What other Scriptures emphasize treating others as "brothers in the Lord"? 6. How does Philemon 1:16 challenge our views on forgiveness and reconciliation? 7. How does Philemon 1:16 redefine the concept of slavery in a Christian context? 8. What does Philemon 1:16 suggest about equality among believers? 9. How does Philemon 1:16 challenge traditional social hierarchies? 10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Philemon 1? (16) Not now as a servant, but . . . a brother beloved . . . in the Lord.--In these words we have at last the principle which is absolutely destructive of the condition of slavery--a condition which is the exaggeration of natural inferiority to the effacement of the deeper natural equality. (1) The slave--the "living chattel" of inhuman laws and philosophies--is first "a brother," united to his master by natural ties of ultimate equality, having, therefore, both duties and rights. (2) But he is also a "brother beloved." These natural ties are not only strengthened by duty, but made living ties by the love which delights indeed to respect the rights of others, but is not content without willingness to sacrifice even our own rights to them. (3) Above all, this is "in the Lord." The slave is bought by Christ's blood, made a son of God, and therefore a brother to all who are members of the family of God. To reject and to outrage him is a rejection and outrage towards Christ. Compare St. Peter's striking comparison of the sufferings of the slave to the passion of the Divine Sufferer (1Peter 2:18-24). They suffer with Him, and He suffers in them. It has been proved historically that only by the aid of this last and highest conception has the brotherhood of love too slowly, indeed, but yet surely--assumed reality. (See Introduction.) Specially to me, but how much more unto thee?--St. Paul first emphasises his own love for Onesimus, which, indeed, breathes in every line of the Epistle; but then goes on to infer in Philemon a yet greater affection--a natural love towards the nursling of his house, a spiritual love towards the brother "in the Lord," lost and found again. Verse 16. - Not now as a servant, but above a servant, a brother beloved. So great a difference had his Christian calling and profession made to him and to others. Both in the flesh and in the Lord. A hysteron proteron. The apostle is pleading on behalf of Onesimus this new bond of Christian relationship, which was in the Lord, that it should bring about a renewed fullness of personal relation. In the flesh, because "in the Lord." Philemon 1:16 declares that the gospel transforms relationships. Onesimus is no longer merely a slave; he is now a “beloved brother,” valued more highly than any economic role could assign. Paul’s affection, Philemon’s anticipated welcome, and the shared life “in person and in the Lord” showcase how Christ overturns social barriers and creates a family marked by love, dignity, and mutual service.Parallel Commentaries ... Greek no longerοὐκέτι (ouketi) Adverb Strong's 3765: No longer, no more. Also ouk eti from ou and eti; not yet, no longer. as ὡς (hōs) Adverb Strong's 5613: Probably adverb of comparative from hos; which how, i.e. In that manner. a slave, δοῦλον (doulon) Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular Strong's 1401: (a) (as adj.) enslaved, (b) (as noun) a (male) slave. From deo; a slave. but ἀλλὰ (alla) Conjunction Strong's 235: But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise. better than ὑπὲρ (hyper) Preposition Strong's 5228: Gen: in behalf of; acc: above. a slave, δοῦλον (doulon) Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular Strong's 1401: (a) (as adj.) enslaved, (b) (as noun) a (male) slave. From deo; a slave. [as] a beloved ἀγαπητόν (agapēton) Adjective - Accusative Masculine Singular Strong's 27: From agapao; beloved. brother. ἀδελφὸν (adelphon) Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular Strong's 80: A brother, member of the same religious community, especially a fellow-Christian. A brother near or remote. [He is] especially [ beloved ] μάλιστα (malista) Adverb Strong's 3122: Most of all, especially. Neuter plural of the superlative of an apparently primary adverb mala; most or particularly. to me, ἐμοί (emoi) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Dative 1st Person Singular Strong's 1473: I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I. but δὲ (de) Conjunction Strong's 1161: A primary particle; but, and, etc. even more so πόσῳ (posō) Interrogative / Indefinite Pronoun - Dative Neuter Singular Strong's 4214: How much, how great, how many. From an absolute pos and hos; interrogative pronoun how much (plural) many). to you, σοὶ (soi) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Dative 2nd Person Singular Strong's 4771: You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou. both καὶ (kai) Conjunction Strong's 2532: And, even, also, namely. in ἐν (en) Preposition Strong's 1722: In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc. person σαρκὶ (sarki) Noun - Dative Feminine Singular Strong's 4561: Flesh, body, human nature, materiality; kindred. and καὶ (kai) Conjunction Strong's 2532: And, even, also, namely. in ἐν (en) Preposition Strong's 1722: In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc. [the] Lord. Κυρίῳ (Kyriō) Noun - Dative Masculine Singular Strong's 2962: Lord, master, sir; the Lord. From kuros; supreme in authority, i.e. controller; by implication, Master. Additonal Resources Philemon 1:16 Blue Letter BiblePhilemon 1:16 Bible Gateway Philemon 1:16 Bible.com Philemon 1:16 NIV |
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