Philemon 1:21
What does Philemon 1:21 mean?
A plain-English look at Philemon 1:21 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Philemon 1:21 means
Paul writes “having confidence in thine obedience,” trusting Philemon to do what is right, and “even beyond what I say.” This confidence is both affirmation and gentle challenge. It suggests that Philemon’s response will not be minimal or grudging but generous, guided by love. While Paul does not specify, “beyond” may include fuller reconciliation or further partnership with Onesimus as a brother. The point is that gospel obedience tends to exceed mere obligation. Paul’s trust invites Philemon to rise to his best self in Christ, making the letter’s appeal a springboard for lavish grace.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000Having confidence in thine obedience I write unto thee, knowing that thou wilt do even beyond what I say.
KJV
King James Version · 1611Having confidence in thy obedience I wrote unto thee, knowing that thou wilt also do more than I say.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901Having confidence in thine obedience I write unto thee, knowing that thou wilt do even beyond what I say.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949Being certain that you will do my desire, I am writing to you, in the knowledge that you will do even more than I say.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862having been confident in thy obedience I did write to thee, having known that also above what I may say thou wilt do;
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752Trusting in thy obedience, I have written to thee: knowing that thou wilt also do more than I say.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890Being confident of thine obedience, I have written to thee, knowing that thou wilt do even more than I say.
Context
With the central request made and obstacles addressed, Paul closes the appeal by expressing confidence in Philemon’s response. This relieves pressure and empowers Philemon to act freely and amply. The next verse (22) adds a practical note—a request for lodging because Paul hopes to visit, implying accountability and hope through prayer. The final greetings (23–25) will situate the letter within the wider fellowship of co-laborers and conclude with a benediction.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- 2 Corinthians 8:22
And we have sent with them our brother, whom we have many times proved earnest in many things, but now much more earnest, by reason of the great confidence which he hath in you.
- Galatians 5:10
I have confidence to you-ward in the Lord, that ye will be none otherwise minded: but he that troubleth you shall bear his judgment, whosoever he be.
- 2 Thessalonians 3:4
And we have confidence in the Lord touching you, that ye both do and will do the things which we command.
- 2 Corinthians 7:16
I rejoice that in everything I am of good courage concerning you.
- 2 Corinthians 2:3
And I wrote this very thing, lest, when I came, I should have sorrow from them of whom I ought to rejoice; having confidence in you all, that my joy is the joy of you all.