Philemon 1:12

Have sent. Or, “am sending.” Onesimus was to accompany the letter. There is no evidence that Paul compelled, or even urged, Onesimus to return. Furthermore, Paul had no power to send Onesimus back to Philemon, nor did he have any way of making certain that Onesimus would arrive at Colossae. However, Paul had implicit confidence in Onesimus’ integrity. They both knew that Onesimus’ Christian duty was to return to Philemon even though his absence would deprive Paul of Onesimus’ gracious service. Paul released Onesimus from serving him so that he might serve Philemon.

Thou therefore receive. Textual evidence favors the omission of these words.

Mine own bowels. See on v. 7. In spirit, Paul accompanies the returning slave. By receiving Onesimus, Philemon will not only be welcoming a converted slave but also gratifying the magnanimous heart of Paul himself.