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

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this incredibly important passage from Philemon 1:13. It’s a really beautiful and thoughtful statement about God’s care for us. Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that God wants to keep a person with him – to help them through life. He's not just interested in having a relationship with this person, but he actively wants to be involved and support them as they follow him. Let’s unpack it word by word: “Whom I would have retained…” - This is the key part. It means God intended to keep this person close. “…with me…” – “With me” refers to God himself, and his presence and guidance. "...that in thy stead he might have ministered unto me…” – This is where it gets really meaningful. "Thy stead" means "your place." It’s saying that God wants to help this person, to offer them something – to be a guide and helper – while they are bound or restricted. "...in the bonds of the gospel:" - This is the crucial part! “The gospel” refers to Jesus Christ and his message of salvation (being freed from sin and death). “Bonds” means being held captive, restricted, or confined. So, this verse says that God wants to help this person be released from their restrictions – to be freed from the power of sin and into a relationship with him. Putting it all together: God doesn’t just want to have a connection; he wants to actively work with and guide this person to follow Jesus Christ. He sees potential for good in them, and he's offering his help and presence to lead them toward salvation and a new life with God. In essence, it’s a powerful statement about God’s love and desire to be involved in the lives of those who trust him. --- To give you an even better explanation, could you tell me: What's your current understanding of this verse? (Are you familiar with the concept of "the gospel"? Do you have any questions about it?)