Philemon 1:6
“That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Context
Philemon is a short, personal letter from Paul to a believer whose servant, Onesimus, had run away and then come to faith under Paul's ministry. Verse 6 falls within the opening thanksgiving and prayer, where Paul commends Philemon's love and faith before making his tender request. The prayer for effective faith-sharing prepares the ground for the appeal to forgive and welcome Onesimus.
What Does Philemon 1:6 Mean?
Paul prays that Philemon's faith, when shared, would become powerful and produce real results. The word behind "communication" means partnership or fellowship -- the active sharing of what one believes, both in word and in generous deed. Paul longs for that sharing to be "effectual," to actually accomplish good, and he ties its power to "the acknowledging of every good thing" that is in believers through their union with Christ.
This prayer sets up the whole appeal of the letter. Paul is about to ask Philemon to receive back a runaway servant, Onesimus, as a brother. Before he asks, he prays that Philemon will recognize the good that Christ has worked in him and let that recognition spill over into gracious action. Faith is not meant to stay private; it becomes effective when it is shared and when believers see and honor the good God has placed in one another. The verse holds together inner conviction and outward fellowship -- what is believed becomes a force for good only when it is acted upon among brothers and sisters in Christ.
In the Original Language
Greek (Koine)
Cross References
“For we have great joy and consolation in thy love, because the bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee, brother.”
- Philemon 1:7
“Hearing of thy love and faith, which thou hast toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all saints.”
- Philemon 1:5
“If thou count me therefore a partner, receive him as myself.”
- Philemon 1:17
Application
Your faith grows strong when it is shared and put to work, not kept hidden. Look for the good things God has placed in fellow believers and acknowledge them openly -- that recognition encourages generosity, forgiveness, and partnership. Let your convictions become effective through concrete acts of love toward others.
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