Philemon 1:7
“For we have great joy and consolation in thy love, because the bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee, brother.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Paul expresses the deep joy he draws from Philemon's love, which has refreshed the hearts of fellow believers.
What Does Philemon 1:7 Mean?
Closing his thanksgiving, Paul tells Philemon plainly what his love has meant. The old phrase the bowels of the saints refers to the inward affections, the deepest seat of feeling; in modern terms, Philemon has refreshed the hearts of God's people. Paul calls him brother, warm and direct.
This is more than praise; it is gentle preparation. Philemon has a track record of refreshing others, and Paul will soon ask him to do it once more, for Onesimus. Love that comforts the weary brings real joy and consolation to the whole body. The verse shows how one believer's kindness ripples outward, gladdening even an imprisoned apostle far away.
In the Original Language
splanchna (σπλάγχνα), "bowels" — the inner organs, used for the seat of tender affection; we would say the heart.