World English Bible

Philemon 1:15

“For perhaps he was therefore separated from you for a while, that you would have him forever,”

Verse in context — Philemon 1

whom I desired to keep with me, that on your behalf he might serve me in my chains for the Good News.

But I was willing to do nothing without your consent, that your goodness would not be as of necessity, but of free will.

For perhaps he was therefore separated from you for a while, that you would have him forever,

no longer as a slave, but more than a slave, a beloved brother, especially to me, but how much rather to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord.

If then you count me a partner, receive him as you would receive me.

A personal appeal for forgiveness and reconciliation.