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

Other Translations of Philemon 1:15

New International Version

15 Perhaps the reason he was separated from you for a little while was that you might have him back forever-

English Standard Version

15 For this perhaps is why he was parted from you for a while, that you might have him back forever,

The Message

15 Maybe it's all for the best that you lost him for a while. You're getting him back now for good -

New King James Version

15 For perhaps he departed for a while for this purpose, that you might receive him forever,

New Living Translation

15 It seems you lost Onesimus for a little while so that you could have him back forever.

Matthew Henry's Commentary on Philemon 1:15

Commentary on Philemon 1:15-22

(Read Philemon 1:15-22)

When we speak of the nature of any sin or offence against God, the evil of it is not to be lessened; but in a penitent sinner, as God covers it, so must we. Such changed characters often become a blessing to all among whom they reside. Christianity does not do away our duties to others, but directs to the right doing of them. True penitents will be open in owning their faults, as doubtless Onesimus had been to Paul, upon his being awakened and brought to repentance; especially in cases of injury done to others. The communion of saints does not destroy distinction of property. This passage is an instance of that being imputed to one, which is contracted by another; and of one becoming answerable for another, by a voluntary engagement, that he might be freed from the punishment due to his crimes, according to the doctrine that Christ of his own will bore the punishment of our sins, that we might receive the reward of his righteousness. Philemon was Paul's son in the faith, yet he entreated him as a brother. Onesimus was a poor slave, yet Paul besought for him as if seeking some great thing for himself. Christians should do what may give joy to the hearts of one another. From the world they expect trouble; they should find comfort and joy in one another. When any of our mercies are taken away, our trust and hope must be in God. We must diligently use the means, and if no other should be at hand, abound in prayer. Yet, though prayer prevails, it does not merit the things obtained. And if Christians do not meet on earth, still the grace of the Lord Jesus will be with their spirits, and they will soon meet before the throne to join for ever in admiring the riches of redeeming love. The example of Onesimus may encourage the vilest sinners to return to God, but it is shamefully prevented, if any are made bold thereby to persist in evil courses. Are not many taken away in their sins, while others become more hardened? Resist not present convictions, lest they return no more.