Filemon 1:15

1:15 For perhaps it was for this reason that he was separated from you for a little while, so that you would have him back eternally, ¹ 

Filemon 1:22

1:22 At the same time also, prepare a place for me to stay, for I hope that through your prayers I will be given back to you.

Filemon 1:7

1:7 I ²  have had great joy and encouragement because ³  of your love, for the hearts ⁴  of the saints have been refreshed through you, brother.

[1:15]  ¹ sn So that you would have him back eternally. The notion here is not that Onesimus was to be the slave of Philemon eternally, but that their new relationship as brothers in Christ would transcend the societal structures of this age. The occasion of Onesimus’ flight to Rome would ultimately be a catalyst in the formation of a new and stronger bond between these two men.

[1:7]  ² tn Here γάρ (gar) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and contemporary English style.

[1:7]  ³ tn The Greek preposition ἐπί (epi) is understood here in a causal sense, i.e., “because.”

[1:7]  ⁴ tn The word translated “hearts” here is σπλάγχνα (splancna). Literally the term refers to one’s “inward parts,” but it is commonly used figuratively for “heart” as the seat of the emotions. See BDAG 938 s.v. σπλάγχνον 2 (cf. Col 3:12, Phil 2:1).