Philemon 1:8 kjv

Wherefore, though I might be much bold in Christ to enjoin thee that which is convenient,

Philemon 1:8 nkjv

Therefore, though I might be very bold in Christ to command you what is fitting,

Philemon 1:8 niv

Therefore, although in Christ I could be bold and order you to do what you ought to do,

Philemon 1:8 esv

Accordingly, though I am bold enough in Christ to command you to do what is required,

Philemon 1:8 nlt

That is why I am boldly asking a favor of you. I could demand it in the name of Christ because it is the right thing for you to do.

Philemon 1 verses

Philemon 1 8 Meaning

Philemon 1:8 conveys the Apostle Paul's inherent right, rooted in his spiritual authority "in Christ," to directly command Philemon concerning "what is fitting" (which in this context implicitly refers to his expected Christian action towards Onesimus). However, rather than exercising this rightful apostolic command, Paul deliberately chooses a path of loving appeal and persuasion, as explained further in the subsequent verse. This verse establishes the profound tension between Paul's spiritual authority and his preference for appealing to love and fellowship, setting the stage for his plea regarding Onesimus.

Philemon 1 8 Context

Philemon 1:8 is situated in the opening greetings and prayers of Paul's shortest epistle, written to Philemon, a wealthy Christian and slave owner in Colossae. The preceding verses (vv. 4-7) express Paul's gratitude for Philemon's faith and love, acknowledging his refreshingly kind character and generosity towards the saints. Paul praises Philemon as a partner in the gospel whose faith is "effective by the acknowledgement of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus." This sets a positive tone, highlighting Philemon's exemplary Christian walk.

Verse 8 marks a pivot. Having established his affectionate relationship and Philemon's strong character, Paul now introduces the central tension of the letter: his apostolic authority versus his chosen method of appeal. This verse clarifies that Paul could use his command, but chooses not to. This careful setup prepares Philemon's heart to receive Paul's unusual request concerning Onesimus, his runaway slave, with an open and Christ-like spirit, emphasizing that the appeal is not born of weakness, but of deliberate, Christ-like love and wisdom. Historically, the issue of runaway slaves was common in the Roman Empire, and they faced severe penalties, including death. Paul's intervention is not only pastoral but also socially radical.

Philemon 1 8 Word analysis

• Therefore (διό, dio): This conjunction links the present statement to the preceding thoughts (Paul's appreciation for Philemon's love and faith in vv. 4-7). It implies a logical consequence: "Because of your known faith and love, I could justly make a command, but I choose to do otherwise." It shows that Paul's forthcoming appeal is based on an existing foundation of goodwill and shared Christian values.
• though I might be very bold (πολλὴν παρρησίαν ἔχων, pollēn parrēsian echōn):
  • very bold (πολλὴν παρρησίαν, pollēn parrēsian): Parrhesia denotes outspokenness, frankness, confidence, or freedom of speech, especially in the presence of superiors or in public. The adjective pollēn ("much," "great") emphasizes the strength and magnitude of this boldness. Paul is asserting he has significant authority and the right to speak directly and forcefully.
  • might be... (ἔχων, echōn - literally "having"): This participle describes his current possession or state. It signifies that he already possesses this authority and could activate it at will. It is a real and present possibility he is considering.
• in Christ (ἐν Χριστῷ, en Christō): This phrase defines the sphere and source of Paul's boldness and authority. His authority is not derived from human status or arrogance, but from his apostolic calling and identity, which are deeply rooted in his union with Christ. All his actions, including his right to command, proceed from his relationship with Christ, lending divine backing to his authority. This also signals that any command he issues would be consistent with Christ's will.
• to command (ἐπιτάσσειν, epitassein): This infinitive means to order, direct, or instruct with authority. It's a strong verb indicating a directive, not merely a suggestion. It underscores the contrast with his chosen appeal in v. 9. This word highlights the very specific power he is opting not to use.
• you (σοι, soi): The dative singular pronoun, directly addressing Philemon. This personalizes the potential command, indicating that Paul had the authority to issue such a directive specifically to him.
• what is fitting (τὸ ἀνῆκον, to anēkon):
  • To anēkon is a neutral adjective meaning that which is suitable, proper, appropriate, right, or incumbent. It implies something that ought to be done because it aligns with moral duty, custom, or divine will. Paul believes that what he is about to request (receiving Onesimus back as a brother, implying forgiveness and restoration) is precisely "what is fitting" for a Christian like Philemon.
  • This phrase hints at the expected, biblically sound conduct that a believer, especially one as faithful as Philemon, should naturally display. It's a subtle but powerful appeal to Philemon's conscience and Christian integrity.

Words-group analysis:

• "Therefore, though I might be very bold in Christ": This phrase highlights Paul's strategic humility. He clearly articulates his apostolic prerogative and the divine backing for it, removing any doubt about his capacity to command. The "in Christ" establishes the legitimate, spiritual nature of this authority. This transparency sets a humble, yet powerful, tone for his impending appeal.
• "to command you what is fitting": This pairing directly contrasts Paul's power with his intention. He has the authority ("to command") and the object of command ("you"), and the subject matter is not arbitrary but "fitting" within Christian ethics. This combination underscores the righteousness of the potential command he is withholding, making his decision to appeal even more striking.

Philemon 1 8 Bonus section

The careful wording of Philemon 1:8, followed immediately by Paul's actual appeal in verse 9, establishes a sophisticated rhetorical strategy known as prolepsis or praeteritio, where Paul highlights what he could do to emphasize what he chooses to do instead. By stating his ability to command, he elevates the moral weight of his appeal to love. It makes Philemon's subsequent action a willing act of faith and love, rather than forced submission. This approach is more transformative for Philemon's character and builds a stronger foundation for their shared Christian fellowship. This tension between Paul's authority and his appeal also foreshadows a deeper theological point: God's grace and calling are often presented not as rigid commands that bypass free will, but as invitations and appeals to a transformed heart that desires to do what is "fitting."

Philemon 1 8 Commentary

Philemon 1:8 is a masterpiece of Christian leadership and rhetoric, encapsulating Paul's preferred method of influence: persuasion rooted in relationship and love, rather than imposition by raw authority. Paul, an apostle divinely commissioned, emphatically states his absolute right to command Philemon to do what is appropriate and expected of a believer regarding Onesimus. This right ("very bold in Christ") is not a boast of human pride, but a sober statement of apostolic authority given by Christ. By acknowledging his power to command, Paul removes any possibility that his subsequent plea (in verse 9) stems from weakness or lack of legitimate authority. Instead, it showcases his deliberate choice for a higher path: the path of love and an appeal to conscience.

This verse teaches profound lessons on the exercise of power within Christian circles. True Christian leadership, modeled by Paul, prioritizes transformation of the heart over mere compliance. Paul does not coerce obedience; instead, he cultivates willing action motivated by love and internal conviction. This approach aligns with the very nature of God's interaction with humanity – while possessing all authority, He woos and appeals to hearts rather than forcing obedience. For leaders and individuals, Philemon 1:8 serves as a poignant reminder that while one might possess the right or ability to dictate, it is often more kingdom-minded and Christ-like to appeal, reason, and inspire through love and relationship. It's a call to serve, not to lord over, reflecting the humble example of Christ Himself.

Examples:

• A parent who, despite having full authority, chooses to explain "why" a task is important to a child rather than just ordering it.
• A church elder with the authority to dictate policy but opts to present an issue and invite congregational prayer and discernment.
• A spouse with a grievance who chooses to appeal for understanding and reconciliation based on love, rather than demand concessions based on perceived rightness.