For perhaps he therefore departed for a season, that thou shouldest receive him for ever;
Onesimus's absence from Philemon was temporary, lasting only for a season. That leaving was an improper departure. God in providence overruled the temporary separation to bring about a permanent good. That providential good included Onesimus's conversion and his return to Philemon.
Philemon was to forgive Onesimus and receive him back affectionately, not merely for a time but permanently, with Onesimus free to choose to remain with him forever. He was to be received no longer as merely a servant but as a beloved Christian brother, showing how the gospel transforms the bond between master and servant.
Onesimus's absence from Philemon was temporary, lasting only for a season. That leaving was an improper departure. God in providence overruled the temporary separation to bring about a permanent good. That providential good included Onesimus's conversion and his return to Philemon.
Philemon was to forgive Onesimus and receive him back affectionately, not merely for a time but permanently, with Onesimus free to choose to remain with him forever. He was to be received no longer as merely a servant but as a beloved Christian brother, showing how the gospel transforms the bond between master and servant.