Why does Paul say Philemon owes him his very self?
Philemon (Philémon) 1:19 (ESV)
19I, Paul, write this with my own hand: I will repay it to say nothing of your owing me even your own self.
Paul is referring to the fact that humanly speaking, Philemon only became a Christian because of Paul. Whether it was direct or indirect we are not told,1 but in owing Paul his conversion Philemon owes Paul his life.2
19 I, Paul, write this with my own hand: I will repay it to say nothing of your owing me even your own self.