12 I am sending him back to you, and with him I am sending my own heart.
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.