“But withal prepare me also a lodging: for I trust that through your prayers I shall be given unto you.”
At the same time, prepare a guest room for me, for I am hoping through your prayers to be restored to you — the personal note indicates Paul anticipates release and plans to visit Philemon. The guest room (xenōn tithēmi — place for hospitality) and reliance on Philemon's intercession (proseuchōn hymōn) establish mutuality: Paul needs Philemon's prayers, Philemon needs Paul's approval. The visit will make concrete the reconciliation the letter establishes on paper.
Church Fathers on Philemon 1:22
This also was the part of one who was exceedingly confident — or rather this too was in behalf of Onesimus, that not being indifferent, but knowing that he upon his return would know the things relating to him, they might lay aside all remembrance of the wrong, and might the rather grant the favor. For great was the influence and the honor of Paul residing among them, of Paul in his age, of Paul after imprisonment. Again, it is a proof of their love that he says that they…
Nicene & Post-Nicene / Ante-Nicene Fathers translations · public domain
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