Philemon 1:8

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

Wherefore {G1352}, though I might be {G2192} much {G4183} bold {G3954} in {G1722} Christ {G5547} to enjoin {G2004} thee {G4671} that which is convenient {G433},

Therefore, I would not hesitate, in union with the Messiah, to direct you to do the thing you ought to do.

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

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

Commentary on Philemon 1:8 (KJV)

Philemon 1:8 introduces a pivotal moment in Paul's concise yet profound letter to Philemon. After commending Philemon's faith and love in the preceding verses, Paul now transitions to the delicate matter concerning Onesimus, Philemon's runaway slave whom Paul had converted to Christianity.

Context

The Letter to Philemon is a personal appeal from the Apostle Paul, imprisoned, to a wealthy Christian named Philemon. The subject is Onesimus, Philemon's runaway slave who encountered Paul in prison and became a believer. This verse, "Wherefore, though I might be much bold in Christ to enjoin thee that which is convenient," sets the stage for Paul's unique approach to a difficult situation. Instead of issuing a direct command, which his apostolic authority would permit, Paul chooses a path of persuasion rooted in Christian love and fellowship.

Key Themes

  • Apostolic Authority: Paul clearly states he possesses the authority ("bold in Christ") to command Philemon. This authority stems from his commission as an apostle, given by Christ himself, to guide and instruct believers (2 Corinthians 10:8).
  • The Power of Christian Persuasion: Despite his right to command, Paul opts for an appeal based on love and partnership. This highlights a key principle of Christian leadership: while authority exists, love often provides a more powerful and transformative motivation for action than mere obligation.
  • Doing What Is Right and Fitting: The phrase "that which is convenient" refers to what is proper, fitting, or suitable (Greek: anēken - ἀνῆκεν). Paul implies that what he is about to ask Philemon to do regarding Onesimus is not just a personal favor, but something inherently right and consistent with Philemon's Christian character and the principles of the gospel.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word translated "enjoin" is epitassō (ἐπιτάσσω), which means "to command," "to order," or "to direct with authority." This choice of word emphasizes Paul's legitimate power to issue a directive. However, he immediately contrasts this with his chosen method in the following verse. The term "convenient" (ἀνῆκεν, anēken) implies what is "proper," "fitting," or "suitable" for a situation, particularly in a moral or ethical sense. It's what is appropriate for a believer to do.

Related Scriptures

Paul's approach here beautifully illustrates the balance between authority and love in Christian leadership. While he could command, as he sometimes did (e.g., Titus 2:15), he chooses to appeal to Philemon's heart, demonstrating the principle that love builds up and often accomplishes more than strict command. This sets the stage for Paul's appeal in Philemon 1:9, where he explicitly states his preference to appeal "for love's sake."

Practical Application

This verse offers valuable lessons for modern Christian relationships and leadership. It teaches that while authority may exist, leading with humility, love, and persuasion can be more effective and transformative. Instead of demanding obedience, Paul appeals to Philemon's conscience and Christian character, trusting that Philemon's faith will lead him to do what is "convenient" or fitting. It encourages believers to consider not just what they are commanded to do, but what is truly appropriate and loving in light of their identity in Christ and their fellowship with other believers.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 1 Thessalonians 2:6

    Nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor [yet] of others, when we might have been burdensome, as the apostles of Christ.

  • 2 Corinthians 10:8

    For though I should boast somewhat more of our authority, which the Lord hath given us for edification, and not for your destruction, I should not be ashamed:

  • 2 Corinthians 3:12

    ¶ Seeing then that we have such hope, we use great plainness of speech:

  • 1 Thessalonians 2:2

    But even after that we had suffered before, and were shamefully entreated, as ye know, at Philippi, we were bold in our God to speak unto you the gospel of God with much contention.

  • Ephesians 5:4

    Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks.

  • 2 Corinthians 10:1

    ¶ Now I Paul myself beseech you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ, who in presence [am] base among you, but being absent am bold toward you:

  • 2 Corinthians 10:2

    But I beseech [you], that I may not be bold when I am present with that confidence, wherewith I think to be bold against some, which think of us as if we walked according to the flesh.

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