New Testament
Philemon 1:10
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
I appeal to you for my son Onesimus, whom I have become a father to while in chains.
Compare translations
I beseech thee for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten in my bonds:
What Philemon 1:10 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Paul is making a heartfelt request to Philemon regarding Onesimus, a slave who has run away and found Paul while he was imprisoned. Paul refers to Onesimus as his 'son,' indicating that he has led him to faith in Christ and developed a close, fatherly relationship with him. The phrase 'whom I have become a father to' suggests that Paul feels a deep responsibility for Onesimus, not just as a mentor but as someone who has spiritually nurtured him. Paul is appealing to Philemon to accept Onesimus back, not just as a slave but as a brother in Christ. This highlights the transformative power of the Gospel, which can change relationships and social standings. Paul’s use of the term 'in chains' emphasizes his own suffering and the context of his appeal, showing that he is writing from a place of vulnerability and sincerity. This verse sets the stage for the themes of forgiveness, reconciliation, and the new identity believers have in Christ, regardless of their past actions or social status.
How to apply Philemon 1:10 to your life
This verse encourages us to see others through the lens of grace and forgiveness. Just as Paul advocates for Onesimus, we should be willing to support and restore those who have wronged us, recognizing their potential for change and growth in Christ.
Curated for this public verse page. Philemon Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Mary, Jesus' mother's story: An Angel Visits Mary (Luke 1:26–38)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Mary, Jesus' mother
Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Jerusalem
David's capital, the city of the temple, and the place where Jesus died and rose again.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Philemon 1:10
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Philemon 1:10
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Philemon
- Author
- Paul the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- Philemon, a Christian in Colossae
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Philemon 1:10 mean?
Philemon 1:10 expresses Paul's appeal to Philemon regarding Onesimus, a runaway slave who has become a Christian. Paul refers to Onesimus as his 'son,' indicating a close spiritual relationship and his role in leading Onesimus to faith.
What is the significance of 'father' in Philemon 1:10?
In Philemon 1:10, Paul uses 'father' to describe his spiritual relationship with Onesimus, highlighting his role in nurturing Onesimus's faith while in prison. This term emphasizes the deep bond and responsibility Paul feels for Onesimus's spiritual growth.
How does Philemon 1:10 relate to forgiveness?
Philemon 1:10 relates to forgiveness by showing Paul's desire for Philemon to forgive Onesimus and welcome him back. It emphasizes the importance of seeing others through grace and recognizing their potential for change.
What does 'in chains' mean in Philemon 1:10?
The phrase 'in chains' in Philemon 1:10 indicates that Paul is writing from prison, highlighting his vulnerability and the sincerity of his appeal. It underscores the context of his request for reconciliation amidst his own suffering.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.