Philemon 1:19 - I, Paul, write this with my own hand: I will repay it (not to mention to you that you owe to me even your own self besides).
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What does "Philemon 1:19" mean?
This verse from Philemon 1:19 is Paul offering to personally cover any debt that Onesimus (Philemon's runaway slave) owes to Philemon. Let's break it down:
"I, Paul, write this with my own hand:" Paul emphasizes that this promise is genuine and legally binding. Writing it himself, rather than dictating it to someone, adds weight and authenticity. It was a way to give reassurance to Philemon of his intent to pay the debt.
"I will repay it:" This is the central point. Paul commits to paying whatever financial obligations Onesimus might have incurred while he was away from Philemon. This is a generous gesture, especially considering Paul's circumstances (he was likely imprisoned at the time).
"(not to mention to you that you owe to me even your own self besides):" This is a more nuanced and powerful statement. Paul reminds Philemon that he, Philemon, owes his spiritual life and salvation to Paul's ministry. It's a subtle but strong appeal to Philemon's sense of gratitude and obligation. Paul is essentially saying, "While I'm willing to pay this debt, remember the far greater debt you owe me – your very life in Christ."
In essence, the verse is a masterful blend of legal guarantee and persuasive rhetoric. Paul assures Philemon of his willingness to pay the debt, while simultaneously reminding Philemon of the greater spiritual debt he owes to Paul. This works to soften Philemon's potential anger or resentment towards Onesimus and encourage him to forgive and receive Onesimus back as a brother in Christ. It's a powerful demonstration of grace, forgiveness, and reconciliation.
Here's a simplified paraphrase:
"I, Paul, am personally writing this promise: I will pay back any money Onesimus owes you. But remember, you owe me even more – your very life in Christ. Think about that."
Philemon 1:19 - I, Paul, write this with my own hand: I will repay it (not to mention to you that you owe to me even your own self besides).
What does "Philemon 1:19" mean?
This verse from Philemon 1:19 is Paul offering to personally cover any debt that Onesimus (Philemon's runaway slave) owes to Philemon. Let's break it down:
"I, Paul, write this with my own hand:" Paul emphasizes that this promise is genuine and legally binding. Writing it himself, rather than dictating it to someone, adds weight and authenticity. It was a way to give reassurance to Philemon of his intent to pay the debt.
"I will repay it:" This is the central point. Paul commits to paying whatever financial obligations Onesimus might have incurred while he was away from Philemon. This is a generous gesture, especially considering Paul's circumstances (he was likely imprisoned at the time).
"(not to mention to you that you owe to me even your own self besides):" This is a more nuanced and powerful statement. Paul reminds Philemon that he, Philemon, owes his spiritual life and salvation to Paul's ministry. It's a subtle but strong appeal to Philemon's sense of gratitude and obligation. Paul is essentially saying, "While I'm willing to pay this debt, remember the far greater debt you owe me – your very life in Christ."
In essence, the verse is a masterful blend of legal guarantee and persuasive rhetoric. Paul assures Philemon of his willingness to pay the debt, while simultaneously reminding Philemon of the greater spiritual debt he owes to Paul. This works to soften Philemon's potential anger or resentment towards Onesimus and encourage him to forgive and receive Onesimus back as a brother in Christ. It's a powerful demonstration of grace, forgiveness, and reconciliation.
Here's a simplified paraphrase:
"I, Paul, am personally writing this promise: I will pay back any money Onesimus owes you. But remember, you owe me even more – your very life in Christ. Think about that."