KJV ORIGINAL
If thou count me therefore a partner, receive him as myself.
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE
So if you really consider me your partner and friend, then welcome him back exactly like you'd welcome me.
⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE
True friendship means extending grace to the people your friends care about.
📚 Historical Context
In the first-century Roman Empire, slavery was a widespread practice, and Philemon was a Christian slave owner who had a runaway slave named Onesimus. Paul, writing this letter from prison, was appealing to Philemon based on their shared faith in Christ, urging him to welcome Onesimus back not as a servant but as a brother. This verse reflects Paul's emphasis on unity and forgiveness within the early Christian community.
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