References (4)
Accompanying him is our faithful and beloved brother Onesimus [], who is one of you. They will tell you everything that is happening here.
Here I, Paul, write my greeting with my own hand.
[The letter ends with a personal greeting from Paul, which means that until now someone else has been holding the pen. In ancient times, it was common to hire professional scribes, see ; ; ; ; . Timothy may have had that role, see . When Paul writes this last line, his right hand is chained to the left hand of a Roman soldier, and the chains rattle against the tabletop, see . Paul sends a prayer request and a greeting of peace.]
Remember my chains. I am still imprisoned. Grace (God's favor and power) be with you.
appeal to you for my child
whom I have begotten in my imprisonment (in my chains), Onesimus.
[The name Onesimus means "useful" or "helpful" and was a common slave name. The similar Greek verb onaimen means "to become useful." That is the reason for the choice of words in verses 11 and 20. Paul uses the word appeal (Gk. parakalo) in both verses 9 and 10. This, in contrast to his not commanding in , reinforces his exhortation and sincere appeal to Philem. to receive Onesimus, who was like a son to Paul.]
The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ (Messiah, Christ) be with your spirit.
