Philemon 1:16

Dutch 1939 (De Heilige Schrift, Petrus Canisiusvertaling, 1939)

niet meer als slaaf, doch meer dan dat, als een geliefden broeder. Geldt dit voor mij, hoeveel te meer geldt het dan voor u, die hem terugkrijgt zowel naar het lichaam als in den Heer.

Wat betekent dit?

This verse is from Paul to Philemon about a man named Onesimus. It says that Onesimus should not be treated like a servant anymore but as a beloved brother, even more so than just in the family but also in the faith.

Uitgelegd voor kinderen

Imagine you have a friend who used to play with your toys without asking. Now they're sorry and want to make things right. This verse is like saying, 'Don't treat them like that anymore; they are now part of the family, just like you.'

Historische achtergrond

Paul wrote this letter around AD 60-62 from a Roman prison to Philemon, a wealthy Christian in Colossae. Onesimus, who was Philemon's slave and had run away, had become a believer through Paul’s ministry.

Toepassing voor vandaag

If someone has wronged you but is now seeking forgiveness and wants to change, this verse encourages us to welcome them with open arms and treat them as equals in both life and faith, not holding past mistakes against them.

Onderwerpen

• forgiveness
• equality in Christ
• servanthood
• relationship restoration
• redemption
• brotherhood

Gerelateerde verzen

• Romans 14:10
• Colossians 3:25-26
• Ephesians 6:9
• Galatians 3:28
• James 2:1-7

Veelgestelde vragen

What is the main message of Philemon 1:16?

The verse emphasizes treating someone not just as an employee or subordinate but as a brother in Christ, showing love and forgiveness.

How should we apply this verse to our daily lives?

We should treat others with kindness and equality, especially those who have sought forgiveness for past wrongs.

Does this verse only apply to Christians?

While the verse specifically mentions faith in Christ, its principles of forgiveness and equality can be applied universally across different beliefs.

What was Paul's intention in writing this letter?

Paul intended to persuade Philemon to welcome Onesimus back not as a slave but as an equal brother in the faith.