If thou count me therefore a partner, receive him as myself.

PHILEMON 1:17KJV
Know the Bible

Philemon 1:17 (KJV)

What does Philemon 1:17 mean?

Philemon 1:17 shows Paul asking Philemon, if Philemon truly considers Paul a partner and friend, to welcome Onesimus just as he would welcome Paul himself. Paul is urging Philemon to treat Onesimus with the same respect, acceptance, and warmth he would give to Paul.

Paul is writing this letter to Philemon about Onesimus, a runaway slave who has become a Christian and is now returning to his master. Paul appeals to their shared faith and relationship, using the word "partner" to highlight their close bond in Christ. By saying "receive him as myself," Paul is asking Philemon to see Onesimus not just as a slave, but as someone who now shares the same spiritual standing and value as Paul.

The Greek behind Philemon 1:17

  • κοινωνόν (koinōnon, "partner"): This word means a close companion or someone who shares in something deeply, often used for fellowship or partnership. Paul is reminding Philemon of their deep connection, making his request more personal and weighty.
  • προσλαβοῦ (proslabou, "receive"): This verb means to take in, welcome, or accept someone. Paul is not just asking for tolerance but for full acceptance, as if Onesimus were Paul himself.
  • ὡς ἐμέ (hōs eme, "as myself"): The phrase means "as you would me." Paul is asking for Onesimus to be treated with the same honor and affection Philemon would show to Paul, emphasizing equality and reconciliation.

Why Philemon 1:17 matters

  • This verse clarifies that Paul is not just asking for forgiveness for Onesimus, but for full restoration and acceptance, which goes beyond what was expected in that culture.
  • The use of "partner" and "receive him as myself" highlights the radical idea of equality among believers, regardless of social status or past actions.
  • Philemon 1:17 is a turning point in the letter, showing how Paul uses personal relationships and Christian fellowship to encourage reconciliation and transformation.

Where else these words appear

“partner” Greek G2844 · used in 10 verses

  • Matthew 23:30 And say, If we had been in the days of our fathers, we would not have been partakers with them in the blood of the prophets.
  • 1 Corinthians 10:20 But I say, that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to devils, and not to God: and I would not that ye should have fellowship with devils.
  • Hebrews 10:33 Partly, whilst ye were made a gazingstock both by reproaches and afflictions; and partly, whilst ye became companions of them that were so used.

“receive” Greek G4355 · used in 13 verses

  • Matthew 16:22 Then Peter took him, and began to rebuke him, saying, Be it far from thee, Lord: this shall not be unto thee.
  • Acts 27:33 And while the day was coming on, Paul besought them all to take meat, saying, This day is the fourteenth day that ye have tarried and continued fasting, having taken nothing.
  • Romans 14:1 Him that is weak in the faith receive ye, but not to doubtful disputations.

“me” Greek G1691 · used in 77 verses

  • Matthew 10:37 He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.
  • John 8:42 Jesus said unto them, If God were your Father, ye would love me: for I proceeded forth and came from God; neither came I of myself, but he sent me.
  • John 17:18 As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world.