“Wherefore, though I might be much bold in Christ to enjoin thee that which is convenient,”
Accordingly, though I am bold enough in Christ to command you to do what is required — Paul asserts the apostolic authority (en Christō — in/with Christ's authority) and could issue categorical orders (epitassein). The acknowledgment of this power (tolmēs — boldness/courage) sets it aside voluntarily in verse 9, making the coming appeal more compelling. Apostolic authority is stated and then surpassed by the greater power of love.
COMMUNITY REFLECTIONS
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Anna WestbrookNote1mo agoHope in suffering - Philemon 1
God is faithful in every circumstance. God is faithful in every circumstance. God is faithful in every circumstance. My grandmother used to quote this verse every morning. Their context of persecution...
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DO
David OseiNote1mo agoTransformation through the Word - Philemon 1
I love how this passage doesn't shy away from the difficulty of obedience. God is faithful in every circumstance. This connects directly to the promise made to Abraham. God is faithful in every circum...
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EP
Elena PetrovaNote1mo agoAppeal Rather Than Command
I'm a supervisor and I have authority to just tell people what to do. Paul chose a different way with Philemon - he could have commanded that Philemon welcome Onesimus back, but instead he appealed.
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JT
James ThorntonNote1mo agoThe armor of God - Philemon 1
Faith isn't the absence of doubt - it's choosing to believe despite it. God is faithful in every circumstance. I think this is a call to trust beyond what we can see. The thread of covenant runs throu...
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