Philemon 1:1-9

1This letter is from Paul, a prisoner for preaching the Good News about Christ Jesus, and from our brother Timothy. I am writing to Philemon, our beloved co-worker,

2and to our sister Apphia, and to our fellow soldier Archippus, and to the church that meets in your house.

3May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace.

4I always thank my God when I pray for you, Philemon,

5because I keep hearing about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all of God’s people.

6And I am praying that you will put into action the generosity that comes from your faith as you understand and experience all the good things we have in Christ.

7Your love has given me much joy and comfort, my brother, for your kindness has often refreshed the hearts of God’s people.

8That is why I am boldly asking a favor of you. I could demand it in the name of Christ because it is the right thing for you to do.

9But because of our love, I prefer simply to ask you. Consider this as a request from me—Paul, an old man and now also a prisoner for the sake of Christ Jesus.