Whom I would have retained with me, that in thy stead he might have ministered unto me in the bonds of the gospel:
I - emphatic. Since I had such implicit trust in him as to desire to keep him with me for his service, thou mayest.
I would have retained - different х eboulomeen (G1014)] from the "would" х eetheleesa (G2309)], Philemon 1:14; 'I could have wished,' 'I was minded' here: but 'I was not willing,' Philemon 1:14.
In thy stead - that he may supply all the services to me which you, if here, would render because of the love you bear to me (Philemon 1:19).
Bonds of the Gospel - my bonds endure for the Gospel's sake (Philemon 1:9).