Philemon 1:15

Authorized King James Version

For perhaps he therefore departed for a season, that thou shouldest receive him for ever;

Word-by-Word Analysis

τάχα

G5029

perhaps

shortly, i.e., (figuratively) possibly

γὰρ

G1063

For

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

διὰ

G1223

through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)

τοῦτο

G5124

therefore

that thing

ἐχωρίσθη

G5563

departed

to place room between, i.e., part; reflexively, to go away

πρὸς

G4314

for

a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e., toward (with the genitive case, the side of, i.e., pertaining to; with the dative case, by the side of,

ὥραν

G5610

a season

an "hour" (literally or figuratively)

ἵνα

G2443

that

in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)

αἰώνιον

G166

for ever

perpetual (also used of past time, or past and future as well)

#10

αὐτὸν

G846

him

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

#11

ἀπέχῃς

G568

thou shouldest receive

(actively) to have out, i.e., receive in full; (intransitively) to keep (oneself) away, i.e., be distant (literally or figuratively)

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Philemon Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
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?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?