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Philemon 1:8

Philemon 1:8 in Multiple Translations

So although in Christ I am bold enough to order you to do what is proper,

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

Wherefore, though I have all boldness in Christ to enjoin thee that which is befitting,

And so, though I might, in the name of Christ, give you orders to do what is right,

That's why even though I'm brave enough in Christ to order you to do your duty,

Wherefore, though I bee very bolde in Christ to commaund thee that which is conuenient,

Wherefore, having in Christ much boldness to command thee that which is fit —

Therefore though I have all boldness in Christ to command you that which is appropriate,

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

Wherefore though I have much confidence in Christ Jesus, to command thee that which is to the purpose:

So I have a request/favor to ask of you. I am completely confident that I have authority to command you to do what you ought to do, because I am an apostle of Christ.

So I’m asking you to do something for me. You know, Jesus Christ says that I can talk strong to you, like a boss, and I can tell you straight what you’ve got to do, but I will not talk to you like that. I’m not telling you to do it, I’m asking you to do it.

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Berean Amplified Bible — Philemon 1:8

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Philemon 1:8 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB
GRK διο πολλην εν χριστω παρρησιαν εχων επιτασσειν σοι το ανηκον
διο dio G1352 therefore Conj
πολλην polus G4183 much Adj-ASF
εν en G1722 in/on/among Prep
χριστω Christos G5547 Christ Noun-DSM
παρρησιαν parrēsia G3954 boldness Noun-ASF
εχων echō G2192 to have/be Verb-PAP-NSM
επιτασσειν epitassō G2004 to command Verb-PAN
σοι su G4771 you Pron-2DS
το ho G3588 the/this/who Art-ASN
ανηκον anēkō G433 be fitting Verb-PAP-ASN
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Greek Word Reference — Philemon 1:8

διο dio G1352 "therefore" Conj
Therefore is a word that shows a consequence or a reason, like in Matthew 27:8 and Romans 1:24. It explains why something happens.
Definition: διό conjunct. for δι᾽ ὅ, wherefore, on which account: Mat.27:8, Luk.7:7, Act.15:19, Rom.1:24, al.; δ. καί, Luk.1:35, Act.10:29 24:26, Rom.4:22 15:22, 2Co.1:20 4:13 5:9, Php.2:9, Heb.11:12 13:12 (see Ellic. on Gal.4:31). (AS)
Usage: Occurs in 50 NT verses. KJV: for which cause, therefore, wherefore See also: 1 Corinthians 12:3; Ephesians 4:8; 1 Peter 1:13.
πολλην polus G4183 "much" Adj-ASF
This word means much or many, and is used to describe things like large crowds, as in Mark 5:24, or a great amount of time, as in Matthew 25:19. It emphasizes the magnitude of something.
Definition: πολύς, πολλή, πολύ, [in LXX chiefly for רַב and cognate forms ;] __1. as adj., much, many, great, of number, space, degree, value, time, etc.: ἀριθμός, Act.11:21; ὄχλος, Mrk.5:24; θερισμός, Mat.9:37; χόρτος, Jhn.6:10; χρόνος, Mat.25:19; γογγυσμός, Jhn.7:12; πόνος, Col.4:13; δόξα, Mat.24:30; σιγή, Act.21:40; pl., προφῆται, Mat.13:17; ὄχλοι, Mat.4:25; δαιμόνια, Mrk.1:34; δυνάμεις, Mat.7:22, __2. As subst., pl. masc, πολλοί, many (persons): Mat.7:22, Mrk.2:2, al.; with genitive partit., Mat.3:7, Luk.1:16, al.; before ἐκ, Jhn.7:31, Act.17:12; with art., οἱ π., the many, Mat.24:12, Rom.12:5, 1Co.10:17, 33 2Co.2:17; opposite to ὁ εἶς (Lft., Notes, 291), Rom.5:15, 19; neut. pl., πολλά: Mat.13:3, Mrk.5:26, al.; accusative with adverbial force, Mrk.1:45, Rom.16:6 (Deiss., LAE, 317), 1Co.16:12, Jas.3:2, al.; neut. sing., πολύ: Luk.12:48; adverbially, Mrk.12:27, al.; πολλοῦ (genitive pret.), Mat.26:9; with compar. (Bl., §44, 5), π. σπουδαιότερον, 2Co.8:22; πολλῷ πλείους, Jhn.4:41. Compar., πλείων, neut., πλεῖον and πλέον (see WH, App., 151), pl., πλείονες, -ας, -α, contr., πλείους, -ω (cf. Mayser, 69), more, greater; __1. as adj.: Jhn.15:2, Act.18:2o, Heb.3:3; before παρά, Heb.11:4 (cf. Westc, in l. Was ΠΛΙΟΝΑ here a primitive error for ΗΔΙΟΝΑ ?); pi., Act.13:31, al.; with genitive compar., Mat.21:36; with num. (ἤ of comp. omitted), Act.4:22 24:11, al. __2. As subst., οἱ π., the greater number: Act.10:32 27:12, 1Co.10:5 15:6; also (Bl., §44, 3) others, more, the more: 2Co.2:6 4:15, Php.1:14; πλείονα, Luk.11:53; πλειον, πλέον, Mat.20:10, 2Ti.3:9; with genitive comp., Mk 12:43, Luk.21:3; π. Ἰωνᾶ ὧδε, Mat.12:41; adverbially, Act.4:17 20:9 24:4. __3. As adv., πλεῖον: before ἤ, Luk.9:13; with genitive comp., Mat.5:20; πλείω: with num., Mat.26:53. Superl., πλεῖστος, -η, -ον, __(a) prop., most: Mat.11:20 21:8; adverbially, τὸ π., 1Co.14:27; __(b) elative (M, Pr., 79), very great: ὄχλος π., Mrk.4:1. (AS)
Usage: Occurs in 386 NT verses. KJV: abundant, + altogether, common, + far (passed, spent), (+ be of a) great (age, deal, -ly, while), long, many, much, oft(-en (-times)), plenteous, sore, straitly See also: 1 Corinthians 1:26; Acts 23:21; 1 Peter 1:3.
εν en G1722 "in/on/among" Prep
This word is a preposition that means in, on, or among something. It's used in many places, like Matthew 7:3 and Luke 7:37, to describe a location or relationship. It can also mean by, with, or during.
Definition: ἐν, prep, (the most frequently of all in NT), with dative (= Heb. בְּ, Lat. in, with abl.). __I. Of place, with dative of thing(s), of person(s), in, within, on, at, by, among: ἐν τ. πόλει, Luk.7:37; τ. οφθαλμῷ, Mat.7:3; τ. κοιλίᾳ, Mat.12:40; τ. ὄρει, 2Pe.1:18; τ. θρόνῳ, Rev.3:21; τ. δεξιᾷ τ. θεοῦ, Rom.8:34; ἐν ἡμῖν Abbott-Smith has ὑμῖν., Luk.1:1; of books, ἐν τ. βιβλίῳ, Gal.3:10; τ. νόμῳ, Mat.12:5, al.; ἐν τοῖς τ. Πατρός, in my Father's house (RV; cf. M, Pr., 103), Luk.2:49; trop., of the region of thought or feeling, ἐν τ. καρδίᾳ (-αις), Mat.5:28, 2Co.4:6, al.; τ. συνειδήσεσιν, 2Co.5:11; after verbs of motion, instead of εἰς (constructio praegnans, a usage extended in late Gk. beyond the limits observed in cl.; cf. Bl., §41, 1; M, Th., 12), ἀποστέλλω . . . ἐν, Mat.10:16. δέδωκεν ἐν τ. χειρί (cf. τιθέναι ἐν χερσί, Hom., Il., i, 441, al.), Jhn.3:35; id. after verbs of coming and going (not in cl.), εἰσῆλθε, Luk.9:46; ἐξῆλθεν, Luk.7:17. __II. Of state, condition, form, occupation, etc.: ἐν ζωῇ, Rom.5:10; ἐν τ. θανάτῳ, 1Jn.3:14; ἐν πειρασμοῖς, 1Pe.1:6; ἐν εἰρήνῃ, Mrk.5:25; ἐν δόξῃ, Php.4:19; ἐν πραΰτητι, Jas.3:13; ἐν μυστηρίῳ, 1Co.2:7; ἐν τ. διδαχῇ, Mrk.4:2; of a part as contained in a whole, ἐν τ. ἀμπέλῳ, Jhn.15:4; ἐν ἑνὶ σώματι, Rom.12:4; of accompanying objects or persons (simple dative in cl.), with, ἐν αἵματι, Heb.9:25; ἐν δέκα χιλιάσιν, Luk.14:31 (cf. Ju 14, Act.7:14); similarly (cl.), of clothing, armour, arms, ἐν στολαῖς, Mrk.12:38; ἐν ἐσθῆτι λαμπρᾷ, Jas.2:2; ἐν μαξαίρῃ, Luk.22:49; ἐν ῥάβδῳ, 1Co.4:21 (cf. ἐν τόξοις, Xen., Mem., 3, 9, 2); of manner (cl.), ἐν τάχει (= ταχέως), Luk.18:8 (cf. Bl., §41, 1); of spiritual influence, ἐν πνεύματι, Rom.8:9; ἐν π. ἀκαθάρτῳ, Mrk.1:23; of the mystical relation of the Christian life and the believer himself, to God and Christ (cf. ICC, Ro., 160f.; Mayor on Ju 1; M, Pr., 103): ἐν Χριστῷ, Rom.3:24, 6:11, 1Co.3:1, 4:10, 2Co.12:2, Gal.2:17, Eph.6:21, Col.4:7, 1Th.4:16, al. __III. Of the agent, instrument or means (an extension of cl. ἐν of instr.—see LS, see word Ill—corresponding to similar use of Heb. בְּ), by, with: ἐν ὑμῖν κρίνεται ὁ κόσμος (= cl. παρά, C. dative), 1Co.6:2; ἐν τ. ἄρχοντι τ. δαιμονίων, Mat.9:34; ἐν αἵματι, Heb.9:22; ἐν ὕδατι, Mat.3:11, al.; ἐν μαχαίρᾳ ἀποκτενεῖ (cf. the absol. ἐν μ., ἐν ῥάβδῳ, supr., II, which some would classify here), Rev.13:10 (cf. 6:8). Allied to this usage and distinctly Semitic are the following: ἠγόρασας . . . ἐν τ. αἵματι σου (cf. BDB, see word בְּ, III, 3), Rev.5:9; ὁμολογεῖν ἐν (= Aram. אודי בּ; cf. McNeile on Mt, I.with; M, Pr., 104), Mat.10:32, Luk.12:8; ὀμνύναι ἐν (= cl. accusative, so Jas.5:12), Mat.5:34, al.; also at the rate of, amounting to, Mrk.4:8 (WH; vv. ll., εἰς, ἒν), Act.7:14 (LXX). __IV. Of time, __(a) in or during a period: ἐν τ. ἡμέρᾳ (νυκτί), Jhn.11:9, al.; ἐν σαββάτῳ, Mat.12:2, al.; ἐν τῷ μεταξύ, meanwhile, Jhn.4:31; __(b) at the time of an event: ἐν τ. παρουσίᾳ, 1Co.15:23; ἐν τ. ἀναστάσει, Mat.22:28; __(with) with art. inf., __(α) present (so sometimes in cl., but not as in NT = ἕως; V. M, Pr., 215), while: Mat.13:4, Mrk.6:48, Gal.4:18, al.; __(β) aor., when, after: Luk.9:36, al.; __(d) within (cl.): Mat.27:40, __V. In composition: (1) meaning: (a) with adjectives, it signifies usually the possession of a quality, as ἐνάλιος, ἐν́δοξος; (b) with verbs, continuance in (before ἐν) or motion into (before εἰς), as ἐμμένω, ἐμβαίνω. (ii) Assimilation: ἐν becomes ἐμ- before β, μ, π, φ, ψ; ἐγ- before γ, κ, ξ, χ; ἐλ- before λ. But in the older MSS of NT, followed by modern editions, assimilation is sometimes neglected, as in ἐνγράφω, ἐγκαινίζω, etc. (AS)
Usage: Occurs in 2120 NT verses. KJV: about, after, against, + almost, X altogether, among, X as, at, before, between, (here-)by (+ all means), for (… sake of), + give self wholly to, (here-)in(-to, -wardly), X mightily, (because) of, (up-)on, (open-)ly, X outwardly, one, X quickly, X shortly, (speedi-)ly, X that, X there(-in, -on), through(-out), (un-)to(-ward), under, when, where(-with), while, with(-in) See also: 1 Corinthians 1:2; 1 Corinthians 15:17; 1 Peter 1:2.
χριστω Christos G5547 "Christ" Noun-DSM
Christ means anointed, referring to Jesus as the Messiah, as seen in Luke 2:11 and John 1:41.
Definition: χριστός (Χρ-), -ή, -όν (χρίω), [in LXX for מָשִׁיחַ and cogn. forms ;] __1. 1. as adj., __(a) of things, anointing, to be used as ointment (Æsch., Eur., al.; τ. ἔλαιον τὸ χ., Lev.21:10); __(b) of persons, anointed (ὁ ἰερεὺς ὁ χ., Lev.4:5; οἱ χ. ἰευρεῖς, 2Ma.1:10): ὁ χ. τοῦ κυρίου or Θεοῦ (1Ki.2:10, Psa.2:2, al.), of the Messiah (Aram., מְשִׁיחָא; cf. Dalman, Words, 289 ff.), Luk.2:11, 26 Jhn.1:41, Act.2:36 4:26, al. __2. As subst., ὁ Χριστός, the Messiah, the Christ: Mat.2:4, Mrk.8:29, Luk.2:11, Jhn.1:20, Act.2:31, Rom.7:4, al.; Ἰησοῦς, Mrk.1:1, Jhn.1:17, Act.2:38, al.; Χ. Ἰησοῦς, Mat.1:18, WH, mg. Act.5:42, Rom.6:3, al.; Χ. κύριος, Luk.2:11; Ἰησοῦς Χ. ὁ κύριος, Act.15:26, Rom.1:7, al. (AS)
Usage: Occurs in 525 NT verses. KJV: Christ See also: 1 Corinthians 1:1; 1 Timothy 1:1; 1 Peter 1:1.
παρρησιαν parrēsia G3954 "boldness" Noun-ASF
This word means boldness or freedom in speaking, like the apostles in Acts 4:13 and 2 Corinthians 3:12, who spoke openly about Jesus.
Definition: παρρησία, -ας, ἡ (πᾶς + ῥῆσις, speech) [in LXX; Lev.26:13 (μετὰ π., קוֺמְמִיּוּת קוֹמְמִיּוּת), Pro.1:20 10:10, Wis.5:1, al. ;] __1. freedom of speech, plainness, openness, freedom in speaking (Eur., Plat., al.) : Act.4:13, 2Co.3:12; παρρησίᾳ, adverbially, freely, openly, plainly, Mrk.8:32, Jhn.7:13, 26 10:24 11:14 16:29 18:20; opposite to ἐν παροιμίαις, Jhn.16:25; ἐν π., Eph.6:19; μετὰ π., Act.2:29 4:29, 31 28:31 __2. In LXX (1Ma.4:18, Wis.5:1, al.), FlJ, and NT, also (from the absence of fear which accompanies freedom of speech), confidence, boldness: 2Co.7:4, Php.1:20, 1Ti.3:13; ἔχειν π., Eph.3:12, Phm 8, Heb.3:6 10:19, 35, 1Jn.2:28 Jn 3:21 Jn 4:17 Jn 5:14; μετὰ π., He 416; ἐν π., Col.2:15; id. (as בפרהסיא in Rabbinic lit.; see Westc., Jo., i, 262), in public, Jhn.7:4 and (without ἐν) Jhn.11:54.† (AS)
Usage: Occurs in 31 NT verses. KJV: bold (X -ly, -ness, -ness of speech), confidence, X freely, X openly, X plainly(-ness) See also: 1 John 2:28; Hebrews 3:6; Hebrews 4:16.
εχων echō G2192 "to have/be" Verb-PAP-NSM
This Greek word means to have or hold something, like a possession or ability. It is used in many ways, such as having power or being with someone. The Bible uses it in Revelation 5:8 and 14:6.
Definition: ἔχω, [in LXX for אָצֵל (ἐχόμενος), יֵשׁ,בַּעַל, etc., 59 words in all ;] (on the Aktionsart of the various tenses, see M, Pr., 110, 145, 150, 183), to have, as in cl., in various senses and constructions. __I. Trans.; __1. 1. to have, hold, hold fast, etc.; __(a) to hold, as, in the hand: Rev.5:8 14:6, al.; ἐν τ. χειρί, Rev.1:16 10:2, al.; __(b) of arms and clothing, = φέρω, φορέω, to bear, wear: Mat.3:4 22:12, al.; so frequently present ptcp. (LS, see word, A, I, 6; Bl., 74, 2), Mrk.11:13, Jhn.18:10, Rev.9:17, al.; __(with) of a woman, ἐν γαστρὶ ἔ, to be with child: Mrk.13:17, Rom.9:10; __(d) to hold fast, keep: Luk.19:20; metaphorically, of the mind and conduct, Mrk.16:8 (cf. Job.21:6, Isa.13:8; Deiss., BS, 293; Field, Notes, 44f.), Jhn.14:21, Rom.1:28, 1Ti.3:9, 2Ti.1:13, Rev.6:9, al.; __(e) to involve: Heb.10:35 (LXX), Jas.1:4, 1Jn.4:18; (f) = Lat. habere (Bl., §34, 5; 73, 5), to hold, consider: with accusative and predic. ptcp., Luk.14:18; with accusative, before ὡς, Mat.14:5; εἰς (Hebraism), Mat.21:46; on (Bl., §70, 2), Mrk.11:32. __2. to have, possess; __(a) in general, with accusative of thing(s): Mat.19:22, Mrk.10:22, Luk.12:19, Jhn.10:16, 1Co.11:22, al.; of wealth or poverty, absol., ἔχειν (neg. οὐκ, μή), Mat.13:12 25:29, 2Co.8:12; ἐκ τ. ἔχειν, according to your means, 2Co.8:11; __(b) of relationship, association, and: πατέρα, Jhn.8:41; γυναῖκα (MM, xiv), 1Co.7:2; φίλον, Luk.11:5; βασιλέα, Jhn.19:15; ποιμένα, Mat.9:36; with dupl. accusative, Mat.3:9, al.; __(with) of parts or members: ὦτα, Mat.19:15; μέλη, Rom.12:4; θεμελίους, __(d) with accusative, as periphrasis of verb: μνεῖαν ἔ. (= μεμνῆσθαι), 1Th.3:6; ἀγάπην, Jhn.13:35; γνῶσιν, 1Co.8:1; πεποίθησιν, 2Co.3:4; θλίψιν, Jhn.16:33, etc. (Thayer, see word, I, 2, f., g.); __(e) of duty, necessity, etc.: ἀνάγκην, 1Co.7:37; νόμον, Jhn.19:7; ἐπιταγήν, 1Co.7:25; ἀγῶνα, Php.1:30; κρίμα, 1Ti.5:12; __(f) of complaints and disputes; κατά, with genitive of person(s), Mat.5:23, Mrk.11:25; id. before ὅτι, Rev.2:4, 20; with accusative before πρός, Act.24:19, al.; __(g) with inf., __(α) (cl.) to be able (Field, Notes, 14): Mat.18:25, Mrk.14:8 (sc. ποιῆσαι), Luk.12:4, Act.4:14, al; __(β) of necessity (BL, §69, 4): Luk.12:50, Act.23:17-19 28:19. __II. Intrans. (BL, §53, 1), to be in a certain condition: ἑτοίμως ἔ., with inf., Act.21:13, 2Co.12:14; ἐσχάτως (which see), Mrk.5:23; κακῶς, to be ill, Mat.4:24, al.; καλῶς, Mk 16:[18]; κομψότερον, Jhn.4:52; πῶς, Act.15:36; impers., ἄλλως εἴχει, it is otherwise, 1Ti.5:25; οὕτως, Act.7:1, al.; τὸ νῦν ἔχον, as things now are (Tob.7:11), Act.24:25. __III. Mid., -ομαι, to hold oneself fast, hold on or cling to, be next to: with genitive, τ. ἐχόμενα σωτηρίας, Heb.6:9 (Rendall, in l.); ptcp., ὁ ἐχόμενος, near, next: of place, Mrk.1:38; of time, τ. ἐχομένη (ἡμέρα, expressed or understood), Luk.13:33, Act.20:15 21:26; (σαββάτῳ), Act.13:44. (Cf. ἀν-, προσ-αν-, ἀντ-, ἀπ-, ἐν-, ἐπ-, κατ-, μετ-, παρ-, περι-, προ-, προσ-, συν-, ὑπερ-, ὑπ-έχω.) (AS)
Usage: Occurs in 628 NT verses. KJV: be (able, X hold, possessed with), accompany, + begin to amend, can(+ -not), X conceive, count, diseased, do + eat, + enjoy, + fear, following, have, hold, keep, + lack, + go to law, lie, + must needs, + of necessity, + need, next, + recover, + reign, + rest, + return, X sick, take for, + tremble, + uncircumcised, use See also: 1 Corinthians 2:16; 2 Corinthians 6:10; 1 Peter 2:12.
επιτασσειν epitassō G2004 "to command" Verb-PAN
To command or give orders to someone, like Jesus commanding the demons in Mark 1:27. This word is about telling someone what to do or giving instructions.
Definition: ἐπι-τάσσω [in LXX for אָמַר, צָוָה, etc. ;] to command, charge: with accusative of thing(s), Luk.14:22; with dative of person(s), Mrk.1:27 9:25, Luk.4:36 8:25; id. with accusative of thing(s), Phm 8; id. with inf., Mrk.6:39, Luk.8:31, Act.23:2; id. with imperat., Mrk.9:25; with accusative and inf., Mrk.6:27.† SYN.: κελεύω (AS)
Usage: Occurs in 10 NT verses. KJV: charge, command, injoin See also: Acts 23:2; Mark 1:27; Philemon 1:8.
σοι su G4771 "you" Pron-2DS
This Greek word means 'you' and is used to address someone directly, like in John 1:30 and Matthew 26:64. It's a way to emphasize or contrast the person being spoken to. The KJV Bible translates it as 'thou'.
Definition: σύ, pron. of 2nd of person(s), thou, you, genitive, σοῦ, dative, σοί, accusative, σέ, pl., ὑμεῖς, -ῶν, -ῖν, -ᾶς (enclitic in oblique cases sing., except after prep. (BL, §48, 3), though πρὸς σέ occurs in Mat.25:39). Nom. for emphasis or contrast: Jhn.1:30, 4:10, 5:33, 39, 44, Act.4:7, Eph.5:32; so also perhaps σὺ εἶπας, Mat.26:64, al. (M, Pr., 86); before voc., Mat.2:6, Luk.1:76, Jhn.17:5, al.; sometimes without emphasis (M, Pr., 85f.), as also in cl., but esp. as rendering of Heb. phrase, e.g. υἱός μου εἶ σύ (בְּנִי־אַתָּה, Psa.2:7), Act.13:33. The genitive (σοῦ, ὑμῶν) is sometimes placed bef. the noun: Luk.7:48, 12:30, al.; so also the enclitic σοῦ, Mat.9:6; on τί ἐμοὶ κ. σοί, see: ἐγώ. (AS)
Usage: Occurs in 2041 NT verses. KJV: thou See also: 1 Corinthians 1:3; 1 Corinthians 15:3; 1 Peter 1:2.
το ho G3588 "the/this/who" Art-ASN
The Greek word for 'the' or 'this', used to point out a specific person or thing, like in Acts 17:28. It can also mean 'he', 'she', or 'it'.
Definition: ὁ, ἡ, τό, the prepositive article (ἄρθρον προτακτικόν), originally a demonstr. pron. (so usually in Hom.), in general corresponding to the Eng. definite article. __I. As demonstr. pron. __1. As frequently in Hom., absol., he (she, it), his (etc.): Act.17:28 (quoted from the poet Aratus). __2. Distributive, ὁ μὲν . . . ὁ δέ, the one . . . the other: 1Co.7:7, Gal.4:22; pl., Act.14:4, 17:32, Php.1:16, al.; οἱ μὲν . . . ἄλλοι δέ, Mat.16:14, Jhn.7:12; οἱ μεν̀ . . . ὁδέ, Heb.7:21, 23. __3. In narration (without ὁ μὲν preceding), ὁ δέ, but he: Mat.2:14, Mrk.1:45, Luk.8:21, Jhn.9:38, al. mult. __II. As prepositive article, the, prefixed, __1. to nouns unmodified: ὁ θεός, τὸ φῶς, etc.; to abstract nouns, ἡ σοφία, etc., to pl. nouns which indicate a class, οἱ ἀλώπεκες, foxes, Mat.8:20, al.; to an individual as representing a class, ὁ ἐργάτης, Luk.10:7; with nom. = voc. in addresses, Mat.11:26, Jhn.19:3, Jas.5:1, al.; to things which pertain to one, ἡ χεῖρ, his hand, Mrk.3:1; to names of persons well known or already mentioned; usually to names of countries (originally adjectives), ἡ Ἰουδαία, etc. __2. To modified nouns: with of person(s) pron. genitive, μοῦ, σοῦ, etc.; with poss. pron., ἐμός, σός, etc.; with adj. between the art. and the noun, ὁ ἀγαθὸς ἄνθρωπος, Mat.12:35; the noun foll, by adj., both with art., ὁ ποιμὴν ὁ καλός, Jhn.10:11 (on ὁ ὄχλος πολύς, Jhn.12:9, see M, Pr., 84); before adjectival phrases, ἡ κατ᾽ ἐκλογὴν πρόθεσις, Rom.9:11. __3. To Other parts of speech used as substantives; __(a) neuter adjectives: τ. ἀγαθόν, etc.; __(b) cardinal numerals: ὁ εἶς, οἷ δύο, etc.; __(with) participles: ὁ βαπτίζων (= ὁ Βαπτιστής, Mat.14:2), Mrk.6:14; πᾶς ὁ, with ptcp., every one who, etc.; __(d) adverbs: τὸ πέραν, τὰ νῦν, ὁ ἔσω ἄνθρωπος; __(e) infinitives: nom., τὸ θέλειν, Rom.7:18, al.; genitive, τοῦ, after adjectives, ἄξιον τοῦ πορεύεσθαι, 1Co.16:4; verbs, ἐλαχεν τοῦ θυμιᾶσαι, Luk.1:9; and frequently in a final sense, ἐξῆλθεν ὁ σπείρειν, Mat.13:3 (on the artic. inf., see Bl., §71). __4. In the neut. to sentences, phrases or single words treated as a quotation: τὸ Ἐι δύνῃ, Mrk.9:23; τὸ ἔτι ἅπαξ, Heb.12:27; τὸ ἀνέβη, Eph.4:9, al. __5. To prepositional phrases: οἱ ἀπὸ Ἰταλίας, Heb.13:24; οἱ ἐκ νόμου, Rom.4:14; neut. accusative absol., in adverbial phrases, τὸ καθ᾽ ἡμέραν, daily, Luk.11:3; τὸ κατὰ σάρκα, as regards the flesh, Rom.9:5. __6. To nouns in the genitive, denoting kinship, association, etc.: ὁ τοῦ, the son of (unless context indicates a different relationship), Mat.10:2, al.; τὰ τοῦ θεοῦ, the things that pertain to God, Mat.16:23; τὰ τῆς εἰρήνης, Rom.14:19 (cf. M, Pr., 81ff.; Bl, §§46, 47). (AS)
Usage: Occurs in 7033 NT verses. KJV: the, this, that, one, he, she, it, etc See also: 1 Corinthians 1:1; 1 Corinthians 7:16; 1 Corinthians 11:24.
ανηκον anēkō G433 "be fitting" Verb-PAP-ASN
This Greek word means something is fitting or proper, like in Ephesians 5:4 where it describes what kind of speech is suitable for believers. It's about what is due or befitting a situation. In the Bible, it's used to describe what is right or proper in relationships and behavior.
Definition: ἀν-ήκω (ἀνά, ἥκω), [in LXX: Jos.23:14 (בּוֹא), 1Ki.27:8, Sir. prol.10, 1, 2 Mac6* ;] prop., to have come up to; in later writers, impers. it is due, it is befitting: in ethical sense (MM, VGT, see word), Eph.5:4, Col.3:18; τὸ ἀνῆκον, Phm 8.† (AS)
Usage: Occurs in 3 NT verses. KJV: convenient, be fit See also: Colossians 3:18; Ephesians 5:4; Philemon 1:8.

Study Notes — Philemon 1:8

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Cross References

ReferenceText (BSB)
1 1 Thessalonians 2:6 Nor did we seek praise from you or from anyone else, although as apostles of Christ we had authority to demand it.
2 2 Corinthians 10:8 For even if I boast somewhat excessively about the authority the Lord gave us for building you up rather than tearing you down, I will not be ashamed.
3 2 Corinthians 3:12 Therefore, since we have such a hope, we are very bold.
4 2 Corinthians 11:21 To my shame I concede that we were too weak for that! Speaking as a fool, however, I can match what anyone else dares to boast about.
5 1 Thessalonians 2:2 As you are aware, we had already endured suffering and shameful treatment in Philippi. But in the face of strong opposition, we were bold in our God to speak to you the gospel of God.
6 2 Corinthians 10:1–2 Now by the mildness and gentleness of Christ, I appeal to you—I, Paul, who am humble when face to face with you, but bold when away. I beg you that when I come I may not need to be as bold as I expect toward those who presume that we live according to the flesh.
7 Ephesians 5:4 Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk, or crude joking, which are out of character, but rather thanksgiving.

Philemon 1:8 Summary

[In this verse, Paul is saying that he has the authority to tell Philemon what to do, but he's choosing not to use it. Instead, he wants to appeal to Philemon's love and compassion, just like we see in 1 Corinthians 13:1-3. This shows us that even when we have the power to 'order' others around, it's often better to approach them with kindness and humility, as seen in Matthew 20:26-28. By doing so, we can build stronger relationships and show the love of Christ to those around us.]

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Paul mean by saying he is 'bold enough to order' Philemon to do what is proper?

Paul is expressing his apostolic authority, given to him by God, to instruct and guide believers in the faith, as seen in 2 Corinthians 10:8 and 13:10. However, he chooses not to use this authority in this situation.

Is Paul being hypocritical by saying he has the authority to order Philemon, but then choosing not to use it?

No, Paul is demonstrating humility and a willingness to appeal to Philemon's love and compassion, rather than relying solely on his authority, as seen in 1 Corinthians 9:19-23 and 2 Timothy 2:24-26.

What is the 'proper' thing that Paul wants Philemon to do?

The context suggests that Paul wants Philemon to forgive and receive Onesimus, a runaway slave who has become a believer, as seen in Philemon 1:10-17 and Colossians 3:22-25.

How can we apply Paul's approach to our own relationships and conflicts?

We can learn from Paul's example by choosing to appeal to others' love and compassion, rather than relying solely on our own authority or position, as seen in Ephesians 4:32 and 1 Peter 3:8-12.

Reflection Questions

  1. What are some situations in my life where I need to balance my desire to 'order' others with a willingness to appeal to their love and compassion?
  2. How can I demonstrate humility and a willingness to listen to others, even when I have the authority to 'order' them to do something?
  3. What are some ways that I can show love and compassion to those who have wronged me, just as Paul is asking Philemon to do?
  4. How can I use my own experiences and relationships to 'refresh the hearts of the saints', as Philemon has done for Paul in Philemon 1:7?

Gill's Exposition on Philemon 1:8

Wherefore, though I might be much bold in Christ,.... Or use much freedom of speech in the name of Christ, as an ambassador of his, and great authority as his apostle, which was given him for

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Philemon 1:8

Wherefore, though I might be much bold in Christ to enjoin thee that which is convenient, Wherefore - because of my love, I "beseech," rather than "enjoin," or authoritatively command.

Matthew Poole's Commentary on Philemon 1:8

Wherefore, though I might be much bold in Christ; in the Greek it is: Wherefore, having much parrhsian, boldness, liberty or freedom of speech, or much power and authority, or right, as , for Christ’ s sake, being Christ’ s apostle, or speaking for the sake of Christ. To enjoin thee; to command thee, authoritatively. That which is convenient; to anhkon, things that are expedient, or convenient, fit for thee to do. My office authorizeth me in such cases.

Trapp's Commentary on Philemon 1:8

8 Wherefore, though I might be much bold in Christ to enjoin thee that which is convenient, Ver. 8. That which is convenient] τοανηκον, or, that which is thy duty. Officium autem est ius actionis ad quemcunque statum pertinens, saith Jul. Scaliger.

Ellicott's Commentary on Philemon 1:8

(8-20) Here St. Paul enters on the main subject of his Letter—the recommendation to Philemon of his runaway slave, Onesimus. All thoughtful readers of the Epistle must recognise in this a peculiar courtesy and delicacy of tone, through which an affectionate earnestness shows itself, and an authority all the greater because it is not asserted in command. The substance is equally notable in its bearing on slavery. Onesimus is doubly welcomed into the Christian family. He is St. Paul’s son in the faith: he is to Philemon a brother beloved in the Lord. In that recognition is the truth to which, both in theory and in practice, we may look as being the destruction of slavery.

Adam Clarke's Commentary on Philemon 1:8

Verse 8. Wherefore, though I might be much bold] It would be better to read: Wherefore, although I have much authority through Christ, to command thee to do what is proper; yet, on account of my love to thee, I entreat thee. The tenderness and delicacy of this epistle, says Dr. Paley, have long been admired: "Though I might be much bold in Christ to enjoin thee that which is convenient; yet, for love's sake, I rather beseech thee, being such a one as Paul the aged, and now also a prisoner of Christ Jesus, I beseech thee for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten in my bonds." There is something certainly very melting and persuasive in this and every part of the epistle. Yet, in my opinion, the character of St. Paul prevails in it throughout. The warm, affectionate, authoritative teacher is interceding with an absent friend for a beloved convert. He urges his suit with an earnestness befitting, perhaps, not so much the occasion as the ardour and sensibility of his own mind. Here also, as everywhere, he shows himself conscious of the weight and dignity of his mission; nor does he suffer Philemon, for a moment, to forget it: "I might be much bold in Christ, to enjoin thee that which is convenient." He is careful also to recall, though obliquely, to Philemon's memory, the sacred obligation under which he had laid him, by bringing him to the knowledge of Christ: "I do not say to thee, how thou owest to me even thine own self besides." Without laying aside, therefore, the apostolic character, our author softens the imperative style of his address, by mixing with it every sentiment and consideration that could move the heart of his correspondent. Aged, and in prison, he is content to supplicate and entreat. Onesimus was rendered dear to him by his conversation and his services; the child of his affliction, and "ministering unto him in the bonds of the Gospel." This ought to recommend him, whatever had been his fault, to Philemon's forgiveness: "Receive him as myself, as my own bowels." Every thing, however, should be voluntary. St. Paul was determined that Philemon's compliance should flow from his own bounty; "Without thy mind would I do nothing, that thy benefit should not be as it were of necessity, but willingly;" trusting, nevertheless, to his gratitude and attachment for the performance of all that he requested, and for more: "Having confidence in thy obedience, I wrote unto thee, knowing that thou wilt also do more than I say." St. Paul's discourse at Miletus; his speech before Agrippa; his Epistle to the Romans; that to the Galatians, Galatians 4:11-20; to the Philippians, Philippians 1:29; Philippians 2:2; the second to the Corinthians, 2 Corinthians 6:1-13; and indeed some part or other of almost every epistle, exhibit examples of a similar application to the feelings and affections of the persons whom he addresses.

Cambridge Bible on Philemon 1:8

8–21. A personal Request: Onesimus8. Wherefore] Because I am writing to one whose life is the fruit of a loving heart.though I might be much bold] Lit., “having much boldness”; but the insertion of “though” rightly explains the thought.—“Boldness”:—the Greek word, by derivation, means outspokenness, and its usage almost always illustrates this. See on Colossians 2:15 above, and our note on Ephesians 3:12.—He has the right to “say anything” to Philemon.in Christ] Whom he represents as apostle, and who also unites him and Philemon in an intimacy which makes outspokenness doubly right.enjoin] A very strong word. The cognate noun occurs Titus 2:15; “rebuke with all authority.”—“Love must often take the place of authority” (Quesnel).convenient] Befitting; the French convenable. So Ephesians 5:4, where the same Greek (which occurs also Colossians 3:18; see note) is represented. In older English this was a familiar meaning of “convenient”; thus Latimer speaks of “voluntary works, which … be of themselves marvellous … convenient to be done.” See the Bible Word Book.

Barnes' Notes on Philemon 1:8

Wherefore, though I might be much bold in Christ - Though I might have much boldness as an apostle of Christ.

Whedon's Commentary on Philemon 1:8

Request for the kind reception of Onesimus, Philemon 1:8-21.8. Wherefore—The request is made in view of the high Christian character of Philemon, as described in the preceding paragraph.

Sermons on Philemon 1:8

SermonDescription
Harry Ironside Charge That to My Account by Harry Ironside This sermon delves into the story of Philemon and Onesimus, highlighting the transformation from a runaway slave to a redeemed man through the grace of God. It emphasizes the conce
C.H. Spurgeon A Defense of Calvinism by C.H. Spurgeon In this sermon, the preacher delves into the concept of 'aneko,' meaning what is fitting or proper to do, particularly in the context of marital relationships. The duty of a wife's
Thomas Reade The Effects of the Apostles Preaching. by Thomas Reade Thomas Reade preaches about the effects of the apostles' preaching, prophetic warnings of spiritual declensions, glorying in the cross of Christ, tenderness of spirit, and the view
Zac Poonen Through the Bible - 1&2 Thessalonians by Zac Poonen In this sermon, the speaker focuses on preparing people for the coming of the Lord Jesus with all his saints. He emphasizes the importance of purity in the sexual area, stating tha
Paul Washer The True Servant of Christ - Part 2 by Paul Washer In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the incredible nature of the gospel, describing it as news that is so wonderful it makes one giddy and causes them to dance. He compares the
St. John Chrysostom John 1:1 - Part 2 by St. John Chrysostom John Chrysostom preaches about the dangers of seeking worldly glory and the importance of focusing on God's approval rather than the applause of others. He emphasizes the detriment
Stephen Kaung A Look at Authority 1: Spiritual & False by Stephen Kaung In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the concept of authority in serving. He refers to Mark 10:45, where Jesus states that he came not to be served, but to serve and give his li

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