Philemon 1:20

KJV

Yea, brother, let me have joy of thee in the Lord: refresh my bowels in the Lord.

KJV (with Strong's)

Yea {G3483}, brother {G80}, let {G3685} me {G1473} have joy {G3685} of thee {G4675} in {G1722} the Lord {G2962}: refresh {G373} my {G3450} bowels {G4698} in {G1722} the Lord {G2962}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Yes, brother, please do me this favor in the Lord; refresh my heart in the Messiah.

Berean Standard Bible

Yes, brother, let me have some benefit from you in the Lord. Refresh my heart in Christ.

American Standard Version

Yea, brother, let me have joy of thee in the Lord: refresh my heart in Christ.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Philemon 1:20 serves as a poignant capstone to Paul's deeply personal appeal to Philemon, requesting that Philemon receive his runaway slave, Onesimus, back not as property, but as a beloved brother in Christ. Paul expresses his earnest desire for Philemon's compassionate response to bring him profound spiritual joy and refreshment in the Lord, underscoring the transformative power of Christian love, forgiveness, and reconciliation within the community of faith.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse concludes Paul’s tender and masterful appeal in the letter to Philemon. The entire epistle is a short, single-chapter letter written by Paul, likely from prison, to Philemon, a wealthy Christian leader in Colossae. The central issue is Onesimus, Philemon’s runaway slave, who has encountered Paul in prison, been converted to Christ, and has become a valuable helper to the apostle. Paul is sending Onesimus back to Philemon, not with a command, but with a plea, asking Philemon to receive Onesimus as a brother in the Lord rather than as a former slave. Verses [Philemon 1:17-19](/philemon/1-17-19 "Philemon 1:17-19 - Paul's Appeal for Onesimus") immediately precede verse 20, where Paul explicitly asks Philemon to receive Onesimus as he would receive Paul himself, even offering to pay any debt Onesimus might owe. Verse 20, therefore, acts as a final, gentle, yet powerful emotional appeal, leveraging their shared spiritual bond to secure Philemon’s gracious response.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The letter is set against the backdrop of Roman slavery, a pervasive institution where slaves were considered property with no legal rights. Runaway slaves faced severe penalties, often torture or death. Paul’s appeal is revolutionary within this context, as he does not challenge the institution of slavery directly but transforms the relationship within it through the lens of Christian brotherhood. Philemon was a prominent Christian, hosting a church in his home ([Philemon 1:1-2](/philemon/1-1-2 "Philemon 1:1-2 - Paul's Greeting to Philemon")). Paul's request for Philemon to receive Onesimus as a "beloved brother" ([Philemon 1:16](/philemon/1-16 "Philemon 1:16 - Onesimus as a Beloved Brother")) would have been scandalous and counter-cultural, requiring immense grace and a radical application of Christian principles. This historical setting highlights the profound impact of the gospel on social norms and personal relationships.
* **Key Themes:** Philemon 1:20 contributes significantly to several overarching themes in the letter and Paul's broader theology. It underscores the theme of **Christian Brotherhood and Equality in Christ**, demonstrating how the gospel transcends social distinctions and creates a new family where all are equal in the Lord ([Galatians 3:28](/galatians/3-28 "Galatians 3:28 - No Distinction in Christ")). The verse also highlights **Paul's Pastoral Wisdom and Gentle Persuasion**, as he appeals to Philemon's conscience and love for the Lord rather than issuing a command, trusting in Philemon's Christian character to do what is right ([2 Corinthians 10:1](/2_corinthians/10-1 "2 Corinthians 10:1 - Paul's Gentleness")). Furthermore, it emphasizes the **Transformative Power of the Gospel**, showing how conversion to Christ can change individuals (Onesimus) and relationships (between Philemon and Onesimus), leading to forgiveness and reconciliation ([Colossians 3:12-14](/colossians/3-12-14 "Colossians 3:12-14 - Put on Compassion, Kindness, Humility")). Finally, the verse speaks to the concept of **Mutual Spiritual Refreshment**, where the actions of one believer can bring profound joy and comfort to another, especially to those who labor in the gospel.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **joy (Greek, _onínēmi'_):** From G3685, meaning "to gratify, i.e. (middle voice) to derive pleasure or advantage from." Paul uses this word to express his deep desire for Philemon's actions to bring him profound satisfaction and spiritual benefit. It's not merely a fleeting happiness but a lasting, meaningful gratification that comes from seeing Christian principles lived out.
* **refresh (Greek, _anapaúō'_):** From G373, meaning "(reflexively) to repose (literally or figuratively (be exempt), remain); by implication, to refresh." This word signifies a deep sense of rest, relief, and renewal. Paul desires Philemon's compassionate response to Onesimus to bring a spiritual and emotional respite to his own soul, especially given the burdens of his imprisonment and concern for the churches.
* **bowels (Greek, _splánchnon'_):** From G4698, meaning "an intestine (plural); figuratively, pity or sympathy." In ancient Greek culture, the "bowels" or innermost organs were considered the seat of deep emotions, compassion, and tender affections. Therefore, "refresh my bowels" is a powerful idiom for bringing comfort, solace, and spiritual relief to Paul's innermost being, his deepest feelings and affections. It speaks to a profound emotional and spiritual need.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Yea, brother":** Paul begins with a strong affirmation ("Yea," _naí_) and a direct, affectionate address to Philemon as "brother" (_adelphós_). This immediately establishes the appeal on a foundation of shared spiritual kinship and mutual respect, rather than apostolic authority or a master-slave dynamic. It sets a tone of intimacy and shared faith.
* **"let me have joy of thee in the Lord":** This clause expresses Paul's earnest desire that Philemon's response to Onesimus would be a source of profound spiritual joy and gratification for Paul. The phrase "in the Lord" is crucial, indicating that this joy is not merely personal satisfaction but a spiritual delight rooted in their shared faith and the demonstration of Christ-like love and obedience. Paul anticipates that Philemon's gracious act will honor God and thus bring joy that is "in the Lord."
* **"refresh my bowels in the Lord":** This is a parallel and intensifying request. As explained in the Key Word Analysis, "refresh my bowels" means to bring deep spiritual comfort, solace, and emotional relief to Paul's innermost being. Again, the qualifier "in the Lord" emphasizes that this refreshment is not merely human comfort but a spiritual renewal that comes from seeing the Lord's will fulfilled and His love manifested through Philemon's actions. It implies that Philemon's act of grace towards Onesimus would alleviate a spiritual burden or concern Paul carried.

#### Literary Devices
Paul masterfully employs several literary devices in this concise verse. The primary device is **Metaphor**, specifically in the phrase "refresh my bowels." The "bowels" (Gk. _splánchnon_) are a **Synecdoche** for Paul's deepest affections, emotions, and inner self, as these organs were anciently believed to be the seat of such feelings. To "refresh" them is a **Metaphor** for bringing profound spiritual comfort, solace, and relief to his soul. The use of "brother" is an immediate **Term of Endearment** and an appeal to their shared spiritual bond, establishing a tone of intimacy and mutual respect rather than a command. The entire verse functions as a powerful **Personal Appeal**, leveraging Paul's emotional vulnerability and their shared faith to persuade Philemon. There is also a subtle **Parallelism** between "let me have joy of thee" and "refresh my bowels," where the second phrase intensifies and clarifies the nature of the "joy" Paul seeks, focusing on deep spiritual and emotional comfort.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Philemon 1:20 profoundly illustrates the practical outworking of Christian love and the transformative power of the gospel within human relationships. It teaches that genuine faith is not merely intellectual assent but finds expression in acts of grace, forgiveness, and reconciliation, especially towards those who may have wronged us or are in a position of vulnerability. Paul's appeal for "joy" and "refreshment" highlights the spiritual interconnectedness of believers, where the righteous actions of one can bring profound encouragement and solace to another, particularly to those who labor for the gospel. This verse, therefore, serves as a powerful reminder that our conduct within the community of faith has tangible spiritual implications for others and ultimately reflects the heart of God.

* [2 Corinthians 7:13](/2_corinthians/7-13 "2 Corinthians 7:13 - Paul's Joy in Titus's Refreshment")
* [Romans 15:32](/romans/15-32 "Romans 15:32 - Paul's Desire for Refreshment from Rome")
* [1 Corinthians 16:18](/1_corinthians/16-18 "1 Corinthians 16:18 - Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus Refreshed Paul's Spirit")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Philemon 1:20 invites us to consider how our actions, particularly our willingness to extend grace and forgiveness, impact the spiritual well-being of others and ourselves. Paul's vulnerability in expressing his desire for joy and refreshment from Philemon underscores the profound interconnectedness within the body of Christ. When we choose reconciliation over resentment, compassion over condemnation, and love over legalism, we not only embody the gospel but also become instruments of spiritual encouragement and renewal for our brothers and sisters in faith. This verse challenges us to actively seek opportunities to bring spiritual joy and refreshment to others, especially those carrying burdens or serving in leadership, by living out the transformative principles of Christ's love in our daily interactions and relationships. It reminds us that our practical obedience to Christ's commands regarding love and forgiveness is a powerful testimony that can deeply impact and encourage those around us.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways can my actions and attitudes bring spiritual joy and refreshment to others in my Christian community?**
* **Is there a relationship in my life where I am being called to extend radical grace or forgiveness, even if it feels costly?**
* **How does my willingness to reconcile with others reflect the heart of God and impact my own spiritual well-being?**
* **What "bowels" or deep emotional concerns might a fellow believer (perhaps a leader or someone burdened) be carrying, and how might my Christ-like response to a difficult situation bring them refreshment "in the Lord"?**

### FAQ

**What does "refresh my bowels" mean in modern English?**

Answer: In modern English, "refresh my bowels" means to bring deep spiritual comfort, emotional relief, or profound inner satisfaction to Paul. In ancient times, the "bowels" (Greek: _splánchnon_) were considered the seat of deep emotions, affections, and compassion, much like we might refer to the "heart" or "gut" feelings today. So, Paul is asking Philemon to act in a way that would bring him a profound sense of spiritual rest, joy, and peace to his innermost being, alleviating any anxiety or concern he had regarding Onesimus's reception. It's an appeal for Philemon's compassionate and gracious response to bring Paul deep spiritual solace and joy in the Lord.

**Why did Paul appeal to Philemon rather than command him?**

Answer: Paul's decision to appeal rather than command Philemon demonstrates his profound pastoral wisdom and respect for Philemon's free will and Christian maturity. While Paul certainly had the apostolic authority to command Philemon ([Philemon 1:8-9](/philemon/1-8-9 "Philemon 1:8-9 - Paul's Boldness and Appeal")), he chose persuasion based on love and shared faith. This approach allowed Philemon's act of grace towards Onesimus to be a genuine expression of his own Christian character and obedience to Christ, rather than a forced compliance. Paul believed that an act motivated by love and willingness would be more spiritually beneficial and honor God more deeply. This also highlights a key principle of Christian ethics: true obedience flows from a transformed heart, not from coercion.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Philemon 1:20, with its plea for joy and refreshment rooted in an act of reconciliation, finds its ultimate fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Christ is the supreme reconciler, who, though innocent, took on the likeness of sinful flesh to bridge the chasm between God and humanity. Just as Paul appealed to Philemon to receive Onesimus as a beloved brother, so too does God, through Christ, receive us, former enemies and spiritual runaways, as His adopted children ([Ephesians 1:5](/ephesians/1-5 "Ephesians 1:5 - Adoption as Sons through Jesus Christ")). Jesus's ultimate act of self-giving on the cross provides the "refreshment" for our deepest spiritual "bowels," cleansing us from sin and granting us peace with God ([Romans 5:1](/romans/5-1 "Romans 5:1 - Peace with God through Our Lord Jesus Christ")). His sacrifice brings profound "joy" to the Father and to all who believe, as the lost are found and brought into His family ([Luke 15:7](/luke/15-7 "Luke 15:7 - Joy in Heaven Over One Sinner Who Repents")). Furthermore, Christ Himself models the humility and self-emptying love Paul asks of Philemon, urging us to consider others more significant than ourselves, just as He did ([Philippians 2:3-8](/philippians/2-3-8 "Philippians 2:3-8 - Christ's Humility and Obedience")). Thus, Philemon's potential act of grace towards Onesimus, bringing joy and refreshment to Paul, mirrors the infinitely greater grace of Christ, who brings ultimate joy and spiritual refreshment to all who trust in Him, reconciling us to God and to one another.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

3 John 1:4

I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.

Philemon 1:7

For we have great joy and consolation in thy love, because the bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee, brother.

Philemon 1:12

Whom I have sent again: thou therefore receive him, that is, mine own bowels:

1 Thessalonians 2:19

For what [is] our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? [Are] not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming?

1 Thessalonians 2:20

For ye are our glory and joy.

Philippians 2:1

¶ If [there be] therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies,

Philippians 2:2

Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, [being] of one accord, of one mind.