Philemon 1:22

KJV

But withal prepare me also a lodging: for I trust that through your prayers I shall be given unto you.

KJV (with Strong's)

But {G1161} withal {G260} prepare {G2090} me {G3427} also {G2532} a lodging {G3578}: for {G1063} I trust {G1679} that {G3754} through {G1223} your {G5216} prayers {G4335} I shall be given {G5483} unto you {G5213}.

Complete Jewish Bible

One more thing: please get a room ready for me. For I hope that through the prayers of you all God will give me a chance to visit you.

Berean Standard Bible

In the meantime, prepare a guest room for me, because I hope that through your prayers I will be restored to you.

American Standard Version

But withal prepare me also a lodging: for I hope that through your prayers I shall be granted unto you.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Philemon 1:22 serves as a personal postscript to Paul's impassioned plea for Onesimus, revealing the apostle's confident expectation of release from imprisonment and his desire for a physical reunion with Philemon and the Colossian church. Paul's request for a "lodging" underscores his reliance on the power of intercessory prayer for his freedom, his anticipation of continued fellowship, and the vital role of Christian hospitality within the early church community.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse appears at the conclusion of Paul's deeply personal letter to Philemon, following his powerful appeal for the runaway slave Onesimus. Having urged Philemon to receive Onesimus back not merely as a slave but as a beloved brother in Christ ([Philemon 1:15-16](/philemon/1-15-16 "Philemon 1:15-16 - Onesimus, a Brother in Christ")), Paul transitions to a more personal note. The request for a lodging, coupled with his expressed hope for release, serves to reinforce the sincerity of his intentions and subtly adds weight to his prior request. It implies an impending personal accountability, as Paul expects to witness Philemon's response firsthand, thereby strengthening the moral suasion of his appeal. This verse is part of Paul's closing remarks, which also include greetings from his companions and a final benediction ([Philemon 1:23-25](/philemon/1-23-25 "Philemon 1:23-25 - Paul's Concluding Greetings and Benediction")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The practice of hospitality (Greek: _philoxenia_, "love of strangers") was paramount in the ancient world, especially within the early Christian community. With no inns or public accommodations as we know them today, traveling teachers, apostles, and missionaries relied heavily on the generosity of believers for food and lodging. To "prepare a lodging" for Paul was not merely a logistical favor but an act of profound Christian service and solidarity. Paul was a prisoner, likely in Rome, awaiting trial, and his release was not guaranteed. His confidence in being "given" to them through their prayers reflects the common understanding of divine intervention in response to corporate prayer, a cornerstone of early Christian belief and practice. This cultural expectation of hospitality also meant that Philemon's household, a center for the local church, would naturally be the place for Paul to stay.
* **Key Themes:** Philemon 1:22 contributes significantly to several overarching themes in the letter and Paul's broader theology. Firstly, it highlights the **Power of Intercessory Prayer**, emphasizing Paul's consistent reliance on the prayers of believers for his ministry, freedom, and divine guidance, as seen in his requests in [Ephesians 6:19-20](/ephesians/6-19-20 "Ephesians 6:19-20 - Paul's Request for Prayer") and [Colossians 4:3](/colossians/4-3 "Colossians 4:3 - Prayer for Open Doors"). Secondly, it underscores the theme of **Christian Hospitality and Fellowship**, a foundational virtue in the early church where believers opened their homes to one another, fostering community and supporting itinerant ministers ([Romans 12:13](/romans/12-13 "Romans 12:13 - Practicing Hospitality") and [Hebrews 13:2](/hebrews/13-2 "Hebrews 13:2 - Do Not Neglect Hospitality")). Finally, the verse subtly reinforces the theme of **Reconciliation and Restoration**, as Paul's anticipated visit serves as a tangible expression of his hope for Philemon's full reconciliation with Onesimus, demonstrating the practical outworking of Christian love and forgiveness.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **prepare (Greek, _hetoimázō'_):** Paul's request for Philemon to "prepare" (G2090) a lodging signifies more than a simple logistical arrangement; it implies an active, intentional readiness to receive him. The verb conveys the idea of making something ready or fit for use, suggesting a welcoming environment and a willingness to extend hospitality that goes beyond mere obligation.
* **lodging (Greek, _xenía'_):** The term "lodging" (G3578) refers to a place of entertainment or hospitality, literally a "guest-friendship." This highlights the ancient practice of providing accommodation for travelers, especially fellow believers, and underscores the communal and familial nature of early Christian fellowship. It implies a warm welcome and provision for a guest, rather than just a temporary room.
* **given (Greek, _charízomai'_):** The verb "given" (G5483) carries the profound meaning of granting as a favor, or bestowing gratuitously and in kindness. Paul's use of this word indicates that his release from imprisonment and subsequent reunion with Philemon would not be a mere happenstance or a deserved outcome, but a gracious gift from God, a divine favor extended in response to faithful prayers.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But withal prepare me also a lodging":** Paul makes a direct, personal request to Philemon, asking him to make ready a place for him to stay. The inclusion of "withal" (G260, _háma_, "at the same time" or "together") and "also" (G2532, _kaí_, "and, also") suggests this request is made in addition to, or in conjunction with, his primary appeal regarding Onesimus. It is a practical request rooted in the expectation of a future visit.
* **"for I trust that through your prayers":** Paul grounds his expectation of release not in political maneuvering or legal proceedings, but in the spiritual power of intercessory prayer. The word "trust" (G1679, _elpízō_) here denotes a confident hope or expectation, a firm belief in the probability of something happening, rather than a mere wish. He explicitly attributes the potential for his freedom to the collective supplications of Philemon and other believers, demonstrating his deep reliance on God's intervention through the prayers of His people.
* **"I shall be given unto you":** This final clause expresses the anticipated outcome of the prayers. Paul's release is framed as a divine act, a gracious bestowal from God (G5483, _charízomai_). He anticipates being "given" back to them, implying that his freedom would be a gift, a favor granted by God in response to their faithful petitions, allowing for a joyful reunion and continued fellowship and ministry with Philemon and the Colossian church.

#### Literary Devices
Philemon 1:22 employs several subtle yet effective literary devices. The most prominent is **Anticipation**, as Paul's request for lodging creates an expectation of his imminent arrival, subtly reinforcing the weight of his earlier appeal regarding Onesimus. This anticipation serves as a gentle form of **Rhetorical Appeal**, as Philemon would be more inclined to act favorably towards Onesimus knowing Paul would soon be present to witness the outcome. There is also an element of **Understatement** in the casual nature of the request, which belies the profound theological implications of Paul's reliance on prayer and God's gracious intervention. Finally, the verse demonstrates **Personalization**, shifting from a weighty theological argument to a deeply intimate and relational request, highlighting the strong bond between Paul and Philemon.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Philemon 1:22 powerfully illustrates the New Testament emphasis on the efficacy of corporate prayer and the divine prerogative in answering it. Paul's confident expectation that he would be "given" to Philemon through their prayers underscores a theology where God actively intervenes in human affairs in response to the faithful petitions of His people. This is not a passive hope but an active trust that God, in His sovereign will and grace, can alter circumstances and bring about desired outcomes. Furthermore, the request for a lodging highlights the profound importance of Christian hospitality, not merely as a social custom, but as a tangible expression of love, fellowship, and support for those serving the Lord, embodying the practical outworking of the gospel in community.

* [James 5:16](/james/5-16 "James 5:16 - The Power of Prayer")
* [Romans 12:13](/romans/12-13 "Romans 12:13 - Practicing Hospitality")
* [Philippians 1:19](/philippians/1-19 "Philippians 1:19 - Paul's Hope for Deliverance")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Philemon 1:22 offers profound lessons for contemporary believers, reminding us of the tangible power of prayer and the enduring call to hospitality. Paul's unwavering confidence in God's ability to act through the prayers of His people should inspire us to cultivate a vibrant, persistent prayer life, interceding faithfully for our leaders, for those in need, and for the advancement of God's kingdom. Our prayers are not mere wishes but potent spiritual acts that God uses to accomplish His purposes. Furthermore, the apostle's simple request for a lodging challenges us to embrace Christian hospitality as a vital expression of love and community. Opening our homes and our lives to others, especially those serving the Lord, not only provides practical support but also fosters deeper fellowship and demonstrates the welcoming heart of Christ to a world in need of genuine connection. It calls us to be ready and willing to serve, trusting that God will use our acts of kindness to further His work.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Paul's confident expectation of release through prayer challenge your own approach to intercession?**
* **In what practical ways can you "prepare a lodging" for others, extending Christian hospitality in your life today?**
* **What specific prayer requests for others are you currently bringing before God with confident trust, believing He can "give" them what is needed?**

### FAQ

**Why was Paul so confident he would be released through their prayers?**

Answer: Paul's confidence (Greek: _elpízō_, "trust" or "hope") was rooted in his deep theological understanding of God's sovereignty and the efficacy of intercessory prayer. Throughout his epistles, Paul frequently requested prayer from various churches, believing that God responds to the supplications of His people. His confidence was not a presumption but a firm conviction that God would hear and, if it aligned with His divine will, graciously grant his release as a favor (_charízomai_) in response to the collective faith and prayers of believers like Philemon. This demonstrates a mutual reliance within the body of Christ, where God's purposes are often advanced through the faithful participation of His saints, as seen in [2 Corinthians 1:11](/2_corinthians/1-11 "2 Corinthians 1:11 - God's Deliverance Through Prayer").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Philemon 1:22, though a personal postscript, finds its ultimate fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Paul's expectation of being "given" back to Philemon through prayer foreshadows the ultimate gracious gift of God to humanity: the giving of His Son, Jesus Christ, who was delivered up for our transgressions and raised for our justification ([Romans 4:25](/romans/4-25 "Romans 4:25 - Christ's Sacrifice and Resurrection")). Just as Paul hoped for a reunion facilitated by divine favor, believers anticipate the glorious reunion with Christ, who is our true "lodging" and eternal dwelling place ([John 14:2-3](/john/14-2-3 "John 14:2-3 - Jesus Prepares a Place")). Moreover, the call for hospitality in this verse reflects Christ's own example of welcoming the marginalized and making a way for us to be reconciled to God. Our prayers, through which Paul expected release, are made effective by the constant intercession of Christ at the right hand of God ([Romans 8:34](/romans/8-34 "Romans 8:34 - Christ's Intercession")), ensuring that God's gracious will is accomplished for His people, culminating in the ultimate gathering of all believers with their Lord.

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

Philippians 2:24

But I trust in the Lord that I also myself shall come shortly.

2 Corinthians 1:11

Ye also helping together by prayer for us, that for the gift [bestowed] upon us by the means of many persons thanks may be given by many on our behalf.

Acts 28:23

¶ And when they had appointed him a day, there came many to him into [his] lodging; to whom he expounded and testified the kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Jesus, both out of the law of Moses, and [out of] the prophets, from morning till evening.

Philippians 1:19

For I know that this shall turn to my salvation through your prayer, and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ,

James 5:16

Confess [your] faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.

2 John 1:12

¶ Having many things to write unto you, I would not [write] with paper and ink: but I trust to come unto you, and speak face to face, that our joy may be full.

3 John 1:14

But I trust I shall shortly see thee, and we shall speak face to face. Peace [be] to thee. [Our] friends salute thee. Greet the friends by name.