Bible Strands
Philemon 1:5
because I hear about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints.
Berean Standard Bible
Follow its threads on the canvas →
Study note
Setting — Paul writes to Philemon, a Christian leader in Colossae, immediately after thanking God for him and before praying for the effectiveness of his faith. The author addresses Philemon directly while recounting the basis for his thanksgiving.
The words — The Greek ἀκούων (akouōn) literally means "hearing," introducing the report that prompted Paul's gratitude. The term ἀγάπην (agapēn) denotes the concrete love Paul has heard Philemon demonstrates toward the community of believers.
The thread — This pairing of faith in Christ and love for the saints appears identically in Colossians 1:4 and Ephesians 1:15, establishing a consistent apostolic pattern. The designation "saints" echoes the faithful ones referenced in Psalms 16:3.
Why it lands — The text states that Paul heard a report about Philemon's faith in Jesus and his love for believers before drawing any conclusion about his character. It requires the reader to verify that their internal trust in Christ actively produces tangible care for other Christians.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Greek words
King James Version
Hearing of thy love and faith, which thou hast toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all saints;
Cross-references
- Colossians 1:4 because we have heard about your faith in Christ Jesus and your love for all the saints—
- Ephesians 1:15 For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints,
- Psalms 16:3 As for the saints in the land, they are the excellence in whom all my delight resides.
- 1 Corinthians 16:1 Now about the collection for the saints, you are to do as I directed the churches of Galatia:
- 1 John 5:1 Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ has been born of God, and everyone who loves the Father also loves those born of Him.
- Romans 12:13 Share with the saints who are in need. Practice hospitality.
- Romans 15:25 Now, however, I am on my way to Jerusalem to serve the saints there.
- Galatians 5:6 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value. What matters is faith expressing itself through love.
- Philemon 1:7 I take great joy and encouragement in your love, because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the saints.
- 1 John 3:23 And this is His commandment: that we should believe in the name of His Son, Jesus Christ, and we should love one another just as He commanded us.