12. I have sent him back. Therefore receive him as my own heart.
13. I wanted to keep him with me, so that in your place he might serve me during my imprisonment for the gospel.
14. But without your consent I would do nothing, so that your goodness would not be forced, but given willingly.
15. Perhaps this was why he departed for a while, that you might receive him forever,
16. no longer as a slave but more than a slave, a beloved brother, especially to me but how much more to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord.
17. If then you consider me a partner, receive him as you would me.
18. If he wronged you or owes you anything, charge this to my account.
19. I, Paul, have written this with my own hand. I will repay it—not to mention that you owe me even your own self.
20. Yes, brother, help me rejoice in the Lord, refresh my heart in the Lord.