13. I wanted to keep him with me to help me while I am in prison for the Good News. By helping me he would be serving you.
14. But I did not want to do anything without asking you first. Then any favor you do for me will be because you want to do it, not because I forced you to do it.
15. Onesimus was separated from you for a short time. Maybe that happened so that you could have him back forever—
16. not to be a slave, but better than a slave, to be a loved brother. I love him very much. But you will love him even more. You will love him as a man and as a brother in the Lord.
17. If you think of me as your friend, then accept Onesimus back. Welcome him as you would welcome me.
18. If Onesimus has done anything wrong to you, charge that to me. If he owes you anything, charge that to me.
19. I, Paul, am writing this with my own hand. I will pay back anything Onesimus owes. And I will say nothing about what you owe me for your own life.
20. So, my brother, I ask that you do this for me in the Lord. Comfort my heart in Christ.
21. I write this letter, knowing that you will do what I ask you and even more.
22. Also, please prepare a room for me to stay in. I hope that God will answer your prayers and I will be able to come to you.
23. Epaphras is a prisoner with me for Christ Jesus. He sends greetings to you.
24. And also Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke send greetings. They are workers together with me.