Philemon 1:8

KJV

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

KJV (with Strong's)

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},

Complete Jewish Bible

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

Berean Standard Bible

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

American Standard Version

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

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Philemon 1:8 marks a crucial turning point in Paul's letter, where he transitions from commending Philemon's faith and love to addressing the delicate matter of Onesimus. In this verse, Paul asserts his apostolic authority, stating that he possesses the right and boldness in Christ to issue a direct command concerning what is proper or fitting for Philemon to do. Yet, this assertion serves as a setup for the subsequent verse, where Paul deliberately chooses to forgo this right, opting instead for an appeal rooted in love and partnership, thereby highlighting a profound principle of Christian leadership and relational dynamics.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows Paul's effusive commendation of Philemon's faith and love (Philemon 1:4-7), which has refreshed the hearts of the saints. The "Wherefore" (G1352, _dió_) of Philemon 1:8 directly links Paul's impending request to Philemon's already demonstrated Christian character. It sets up a powerful rhetorical contrast with Philemon 1:9, where Paul explicitly states his preference to appeal "for love's sake" rather than to command. This strategic juxtaposition emphasizes Paul's pastoral wisdom and the nature of Christian persuasion over mere authoritarian decree, making Philemon 1:8 the pivotal statement of Paul's legitimate authority that he then chooses not to wield.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The letter is addressed to Philemon, a wealthy Christian in Colossae, likely a house church leader, concerning his runaway slave, Onesimus. In the Roman world, a runaway slave was considered property and could face severe penalties, including branding, torture, or even death, upon recapture. Paul, writing from prison (likely Rome or Ephesus), had encountered Onesimus, who had become a Christian under Paul's ministry. Paul is now sending Onesimus back to Philemon, a highly sensitive and potentially dangerous act for Onesimus. Paul's appeal, rather than a command, navigates the complexities of Roman law and social norms while upholding the radical implications of the gospel for master-slave relationships, transforming them into brotherly bonds [in Christ](/galatians/3-28 "Galatians 3:28 - No Jew or Gentile, Slave or Free, Male or Female in Christ").
* **Key Themes:** Philemon 1:8 contributes significantly to several key themes within the letter and broader Pauline theology. Firstly, it underscores **Apostolic Authority**, demonstrating Paul's divinely granted right to command believers, a right he frequently exercised (e.g., [1 Corinthians 7:10](/1_corinthians/7-10 "1 Corinthians 7:10 - Paul's Command on Marriage")). Secondly, it introduces the theme of **Christian Persuasion and Love-Motivated Action**, highlighting that while authority exists, love often provides a more profound and transformative motivation for obedience than obligation. This choice reflects the essence of the gospel, which appeals to the heart. Lastly, the phrase "that which is convenient" introduces the theme of **Christian Ethics and What is Fitting**, implying that the action Paul requests is not merely a personal favor but something inherently proper and consistent with Christian character and the principles of the gospel, particularly the new identity [in Christ](/galatians/2-20 "Galatians 2:20 - Crucified with Christ").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **bold (Greek, _parrhēsía'_):** This term, derived from _pas_ (all) and _rheo_ (to speak), signifies "all outspokenness," implying frankness, bluntness, publicity, and by implication, assurance or confidence. Paul asserts his right to speak plainly and with full authority, stemming from his apostolic commission and his standing "in Christ."
* **enjoin (Greek, _epitássō'_):** From _epi_ (upon) and _tasso_ (to arrange), this verb means "to arrange upon" or "to order." It conveys the sense of commanding, charging, or directing with legitimate authority. Paul uses this word to underscore that he *could* issue a binding directive to Philemon.
* **convenient (Greek, _anḗkō'_):** From _ana_ (up) and _heko_ (to come), this word means "to attain to" or, figuratively, "to be proper" or "fitting." It refers to what is suitable, appropriate, or morally right for a given situation or person, especially in an ethical or spiritual sense. Paul implies that what he is about to ask is not merely a personal request but something inherently aligned with Philemon's Christian walk.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Wherefore":** This conjunction connects the present verse to Paul's preceding commendation of Philemon's faith, love, and refreshing ministry to the saints (Philemon 1:4-7). It implies that *because* Philemon is a person of such commendable Christian character, Paul can now proceed with his request, even if it is a sensitive one.
* **"though I might be much bold in Christ":** Paul here asserts his apostolic authority. The phrase "in Christ" signifies that his boldness and right to command are not born of personal arrogance but are rooted in his union with Christ and his divine commission as an apostle. He possesses the spiritual authority to give directives to believers.
* **"to enjoin thee":** This clause explicitly states Paul's capacity and right to command Philemon. The verb "enjoin" (G2004, _epitássō_) emphasizes the authoritative nature of such a potential command, highlighting that Philemon would be obligated to obey if Paul chose this path.
* **"that which is convenient":** This refers to the specific action Paul is about to request concerning Onesimus. Paul frames it not as a burdensome imposition, but as something inherently proper, fitting, and morally appropriate for a Christian like Philemon to do, especially in light of the gospel's transforming power and the new relationship between believers.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs **Antithesis** and **Juxtaposition** in Philemon 1:8-9. He deliberately sets up a contrast between his legitimate right to command ("though I might be much bold in Christ to enjoin thee") and his chosen method of appeal ("yet for love's sake I rather beseech thee"). This rhetorical strategy highlights his pastoral wisdom and the supremacy of love in Christian relationships. By first asserting his authority, Paul underscores that his subsequent appeal is not born of weakness or lack of right, but of a deliberate, principled choice. This choice also serves as a subtle form of **Ethos**, reinforcing Paul's credibility and the moral weight of his appeal by demonstrating his humility and commitment to love over coercion.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Philemon 1:8 offers profound insight into the nature of Christian authority and leadership. Paul, an apostle with divine mandate, clearly possesses the right to command Philemon. Yet, he chooses to appeal to Philemon's conscience and Christian character, demonstrating that true spiritual leadership often prioritizes persuasion and love over mere decree. This approach aligns with the New Covenant emphasis on inward transformation and voluntary obedience motivated by love for Christ, rather than external compulsion. It teaches that while authority is legitimate, its exercise should always be tempered by grace, humility, and a desire to build up the body of Christ, fostering relationships based on mutual respect and love, rather than hierarchical power dynamics alone.

* [2 Corinthians 10:8](/2_corinthians/10-8 "2 Corinthians 10:8 - Paul's Authority for Edification"): "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:"
* [1 Peter 5:2-3](/1_peter/5-2-3 "1 Peter 5:2-3 - Shepherding God's Flock Willingly"): "Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; Neither as being lords over God's heritage, but being ensamples to the flock."
* [Philippians 2:3-4](/philippians/2-3-4 "Philippians 2:3-4 - Humility and Considering Others"): "Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
This verse serves as a powerful model for how believers, particularly those in positions of influence or authority, should approach difficult situations and interpersonal dynamics. Paul's decision to appeal rather than command, despite his clear right to do so, underscores the transformative power of love and persuasion in fostering genuine, heartfelt obedience. It challenges us to consider whether our interactions are designed to compel or to inspire, to demand or to invite. In our relationships, whether in family, church, or workplace, we are called to discern not just what is permissible or within our rights, but what is truly "convenient"—what is fitting, proper, and most conducive to love, reconciliation, and the spiritual growth of others, consistent with our identity in Christ. This approach cultivates deeper trust and allows actions to spring from a willing heart, rather than reluctant obligation.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life do I have the authority to command, but could choose to appeal instead?**
* **How does Paul's example challenge my own tendencies to assert rights or demand obedience?**
* **What does it mean for me to do "that which is convenient" or fitting in my current relationships and responsibilities?**
* **How can I cultivate a leadership style that prioritizes love and persuasion, even when direct command is an option?**

### FAQ
**What does "bold in Christ" mean for Paul's authority?**

Answer: "Bold in Christ" signifies that Paul's authority is not a personal claim to power or arrogance, but a divinely bestowed right and confidence that stems directly from his relationship with and commission from Jesus Christ. It implies that his authority is legitimate, grounded in his apostolic office, and exercised under the Lordship of Christ. He possesses the spiritual enablement to speak with frankness and command, but this power is always to be used for the building up of the church, as he states in [2 Corinthians 10:8](/2_corinthians/10-8 "2 Corinthians 10:8 - Paul's Authority for Edification").

**Why didn't Paul just command Philemon, given his authority?**

Answer: Paul's decision not to command Philemon, despite having the authority to "enjoin" him, reveals his profound pastoral wisdom and commitment to gospel principles. By choosing to appeal "for love's sake" (Philemon 1:9), Paul aimed to preserve Philemon's free will and ensure that his actions concerning Onesimus would stem from a willing heart transformed by the gospel, rather than from mere obligation. This approach honors Philemon's spiritual maturity, demonstrates the transformative power of Christian love, and allows the reconciliation between master and slave to be a genuine act of faith and fellowship, reflecting the spirit of the new covenant where obedience is motivated by love for Christ, not by legalistic compulsion (cf. [Romans 13:10](/romans/13-10 "Romans 13:10 - Love Fulfills the Law")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Paul's strategic decision in Philemon 1:8-9 to assert his authority yet choose persuasion over command profoundly mirrors the condescension and redemptive work of Jesus Christ. Christ, possessing all authority in heaven and on earth ([Matthew 28:18](/matthew/28-18 "Matthew 28:18 - All Authority Given to Jesus")), did not come to rule by force or coercion, but by humble service and self-sacrifice. Though He could have "enjoined" humanity to obey through raw power, He chose instead to appeal to our hearts through His perfect life, atoning death, and glorious resurrection. The Son of God, "who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men" ([Philippians 2:6-7](/philippians/2-6-7 "Philippians 2:6-7 - Christ's Humility and Obedience")). His kingdom is not of this world, established by the sword, but by love, truth, and the transformation of willing hearts ([John 18:36](/john/18-36 "John 18:36 - Jesus' Kingdom Not of This World")). Paul's approach to Philemon, rooted in love and appealing to what is "convenient" or fitting for a believer, is a tangible outworking of the very spirit of Christ, who, though mighty to command, chose to win us by grace and invitation, empowering us to respond in faith and love.

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

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.