King James Version
What Does Philemon 1:18 Mean?
“If he hath wronged thee, or oweth thee ought, put that on mine account;”
Context
16
Not now as a servant, but above a servant, a brother beloved, specially to me, but how much more unto thee, both in the flesh, and in the Lord?
17
If thou count me therefore a partner, receive him as myself.
18
If he hath wronged thee, or oweth thee ought, put that on mine account;
19
I Paul have written it with mine own hand, I will repay it: albeit I do not say to thee how thou owest unto me even thine own self besides.
20
Yea, brother, let me have joy of thee in the Lord: refresh my bowels in the Lord.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(18) **If he hath wronged thee.**—Properly, *If he wronged thee, *evidently referring to the time of Onesimus’ escape. “If he oweth thee ought” is similarly, in all probability, an allusion to some theft at the same time, couched in a hypothetical form, but implying no doubt as to the fact.
**Put that on mine account.**—Comp. a similar commercial metaphor in Philippians 4:15-17, and see Note there. It is strangely out of character with the whole tone of the Apostolic life to imagine (as some commentators have done) a regular debtor and creditor account between Philemon and St. Paul.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Philemon. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Philemon 1:18 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Philemon 1:18
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge