I thank my God, making mention of thee always in my prayers,

PHILEMON 1:4KJV
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Philemon 1:4 (KJV)

What does Philemon 1:4 mean?

Philemon 1:4 describes Paul expressing gratitude to God and saying that he always remembers Philemon in his prayers. Paul is telling Philemon that he regularly thanks God for him and prays for him.

Paul is writing this letter personally to Philemon, a Christian in Colossae, to address a sensitive situation involving Philemon’s runaway slave, Onesimus. By beginning with thanks and prayer, Paul sets a warm, respectful tone, showing that his relationship with Philemon is close and caring.

The Greek behind Philemon 1:4

  • εὐχαριστῶ (eucharistō, "thank"): This word means to give thanks or express gratitude. Paul’s use of it shows a genuine appreciation for Philemon, not just a polite greeting.
  • μνείαν (mneian, "mention"): This word often means a thoughtful remembrance. Paul is not just listing Philemon in prayer, but actively remembering him with care.
  • πάντοτε (pantote, "always"): This word emphasizes that Paul’s prayers for Philemon are ongoing and consistent, not just a one-time thing.
  • προσευχαῖς (proseuchais, "prayers"): This word refers to prayers in general, suggesting that Paul’s gratitude for Philemon is a regular part of his spiritual life.

Why Philemon 1:4 matters

  • Paul’s gratitude and prayers set a positive, respectful tone for the rest of the letter, which will soon address a difficult personal request.
  • The verse highlights the importance of personal relationships and thankfulness within the early Christian community.
  • By mentioning his prayers, Paul shows that his appeal to Philemon is grounded in genuine care and spiritual concern, not just authority or obligation.

Where else these words appear

“mention” Greek G3417 · used in 7 verses

  • Romans 1:9 For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers;
  • Philippians 1:3 I thank my God upon every remembrance of you,
  • 1 Thessalonians 3:6 But now when Timotheus came from you unto us, and brought us good tidings of your faith and charity, and that ye have good remembrance of us always, desiring greatly to see us, as we also to see you:

“prayers” Greek G4335 · used in 37 verses

  • Matthew 17:21 Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting.
  • Acts 10:4 And when he looked on him, he was afraid, and said, What is it, Lord? And he said unto him, Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God.
  • Colossians 4:2 Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving;

“thank” Greek G2168 · used in 38 verses

  • Matthew 15:36 And he took the seven loaves and the fishes, and gave thanks, and brake them, and gave to his disciples, and the disciples to the multitude.
  • Acts 28:15 And from thence, when the brethren heard of us, they came to meet us as far as Appii forum, and The three taverns: whom when Paul saw, he thanked God, and took courage.
  • 2 Corinthians 1:11 Ye also helping together by prayer for us, that for the gift bestowed upon us by the means of many persons thanks may be given by many on our behalf.

“always” Greek G3842 · used in 38 verses

  • Matthew 26:11 For ye have the poor always with you; but me ye have not always.
  • 1 Corinthians 15:58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.
  • Colossians 4:6 Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.