Philemon 1:13

Whom I would have retained with me, that in thy stead he might have ministered unto me in the bonds of the gospel:

Cross-references

In Philemon 1:1, Paul identifies as a prisoner — the same status he refers to in v13 as 'bonds of the gospel.'

In 1 Corinthians 16:17, Stephanas and others supplied what was lacking from the Corinthians — similar to Onesimus ministering in Philemon's stead.

In Philippians 2:30, Epaphroditus risked his life to supply the Philippians' lack of service toward Paul — mirroring Onesimus' potential service.

Acts 28:20 Historical context

In Acts 28:20, Paul says he is bound with a chain for the hope of Israel — same bondage theme as in Philemon.

In Ephesians 3:1, Paul calls himself a prisoner of Jesus Christ for the Gentiles — identical self-identification as in Philemon.

In Ephesians 4:1, Paul again calls himself a prisoner of the Lord — same designation as in Philemon.