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who once was useless to you, but now is useful to you and to me;
Verse Takeaways
1
A 'Profitable' Pun
Nearly all commentators highlight Paul's clever play on words. The name 'Onesimus' means 'profitable.' Paul points out that this once 'unprofitable' runaway slave has, through faith in Christ, become truly 'profitable,' living up to his name. Scholars note this shows Paul's wit and tact in a delicate situation.
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Book Overview
Philemon
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8
18th Century
Presbyterian
Which in time past was to you unprofitable: either because he was indolent; because he had wronged him (); or because he had run away from…
Onesimus (Ονησιμον). A common name among slaves and made like Chresimus, Chrestus. The word is from ονησις (profit) and that from …
19th Century
Anglican
In time past . . . unprofitable, but now profitable.—The name Onesimus means “useful,” or “profitable,” though d…
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Baptist
Which in time past was to thee unprofitable, but now profitable to thee and to me: whom I have sent again:
"He was your slave, and t…
There is a double play on words here. “Onesimus” was a common slave name; it meant "useful” or “profitable.” This is also the meaning of another Gr…
17th Century
Reformed Baptist
Which in time past was to you unprofitable
Yea, injurious and hurtful; one that was an eye servant, that loitered …
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It does not lower anyone to condescend, and sometimes even to beseech, where, strictly speaking, we could command. The apostle argues from love, ra…
13th Century
Catholic
Having expressed his confidence in Philemon’s goodness, Paul now states his request.
He first indicates the person on whose behalf…
