Whom I would have retained with me, that in thy stead he might have ministered unto me in the bonds of the gospel:

PHILEMON 1:13KJV
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Philemon 1:13 (KJV)

What does Philemon 1:13 mean?

Philemon 1:13 describes Paul’s desire to keep Onesimus with him so that Onesimus could serve Paul on Philemon’s behalf while Paul is imprisoned for preaching the gospel. Paul is explaining that Onesimus could have been a helpful companion and support to him during his time in chains.

Paul is writing this letter to Philemon, a Christian in Colossae, about Onesimus, who had been Philemon’s slave but had become a believer and a helper to Paul. Paul is honest about wanting to keep Onesimus with him, but he is also careful to respect Philemon’s rights and wishes. The verse highlights the personal and relational nature of Paul’s appeal, showing the close bonds formed through faith.

The Greek behind Philemon 1:13

  • "ministered" (διακονέω, diakoneō): This Greek word means to serve or attend to someone’s needs. Paul uses it to show that Onesimus’s help would have been practical and valuable, not just spiritual encouragement.
  • "in the bonds" (ἐν τοῖς δεσμοῖς, en tois desmois): The phrase refers to Paul’s literal imprisonment. Paul is emphasizing that his need for support is real and pressing because he is suffering for the gospel.

Why Philemon 1:13 matters

  • The verse clarifies that Paul is not trying to take advantage of Philemon; he wants Philemon’s consent before keeping Onesimus with him.
  • It shows the transformation in Onesimus’s life—from a runaway slave to someone who could be trusted to serve an apostle.
  • The verse sets up Paul’s respectful, gentle approach, which is important for understanding the tone and purpose of the whole letter.

Where else these words appear

“retained” Greek G2722 · used in 19 verses

  • Matthew 21:38 But when the husbandmen saw the son, they said among themselves, This is the heir; come, let us kill him, and let us seize on his inheritance.
  • Romans 1:18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;
  • 1 Thessalonians 5:21 Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.

“bonds” Greek G1199 · used in 20 verses

  • Mark 7:35 And straightway his ears were opened, and the string of his tongue was loosed, and he spake plain.
  • Acts 23:29 Whom I perceived to be accused of questions of their law, but to have nothing laid to his charge worthy of death or of bonds.
  • Philippians 1:16 The one preach Christ of contention, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my bonds:

“ministered” Greek G1247 · used in 32 verses

  • Matthew 4:11 Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him.
  • Luke 8:3 And Joanna the wife of Chuza Herod's steward, and Susanna, and many others, which ministered unto him of their substance.
  • Romans 15:25 But now I go unto Jerusalem to minister unto the saints.

“would” Greek G1014 · used in 34 verses

  • Matthew 1:19 Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a publick example, was minded to put her away privily.
  • Acts 19:30 And when Paul would have entered in unto the people, the disciples suffered him not.
  • 1 Timothy 5:14 I will therefore that the younger women marry, bear children, guide the house, give none occasion to the adversary to speak reproachfully.