Philemon 1:10

Authorized King James Version

I beseech thee for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten in my bonds:

Word-by-Word Analysis

παρακαλῶ

G3870

I beseech

to call near, i.e., invite, invoke (by imploration, hortation or consolation)

σε

G4571

thee

περὶ

G4012

for

properly, through (all over), i.e., around; figuratively with respect to; used in various applications, of place, cause or time (with the genitive cas

τοῦ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἐμοῦ

G1700

of me

τέκνου

G5043

son

a child (as produced)

ὃν

G3739

whom

the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that

ἐγέννησα

G1080

I have begotten

to procreate (properly, of the father, but by extension of the mother); figuratively, to regenerate

ἐν

G1722

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

#10

τοῖς

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#11

δεσμοῖς

G1199

bonds

a band, i.e., ligament (of the body) or shackle (of a prisoner); figuratively, an impediment or disability

#12

μου,

G3450

of me

#13

Ὀνήσιμον

G3682

Onesimus

profitable; onesimus, a christian

Analysis

Within the broader context of Philemon, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by establishing foundational concepts crucial to Philemon's theological argument.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?