Philemon 1:7

we have Better, I had; i.e., when the news reached me.

joy Another reading, ill-supported, has "grace" ;which would bear here the sense of thankfulness. One Greek letter only makes the difference.

consolation R. V., comfort, which is better. The Greek word commonly denotes rather strengthening, encouragement, than the tenderer "consolation"; and the word "comfort" (confortatio) fairly represents it (see on Colossians 2:2). The news of Philemon's love had animatedthe Apostle.

in thy love Lit. and better, on (account of) thy love; this life of "faith which worked by love" (Galatians 5:6).

the bowels Better perhaps, the hearts. So R. V. See our note on Philippians 1:8. In the Greek classics the word here used means "the noblervitals," as distinguished from the intestines; and though the LXX. do not follow this usage, it fairly justifies us in adopting in English the "nobler" word, by which we so often denote "the feelings."

are refreshed Lit. and better, have been refreshed or rested. See the same verb, and tense, 2 Corinthians 7:13. The cognate noun occurs, e.g. Matthew 11:28. The tired hearts of the poor or otherwise harassed Christians had found, in Philemon, a haven of rest. See Philemon 1:20 for the same phrase again.

by thee Lit., through thee, by means of thee. He was the agentfor his Lord.

brother The word of holy family-affection is beautifully kept for the last. See on Colossians 1:2.