Onesimus
“Useful, profitable, helpful”
Summary
Onesimus was a runaway slave from Colossae who was converted through Paul's ministry in Rome and sent back to his master Philemon with a remarkable letter of reconciliation.
☩Flight and Conversion
Onesimus was a slave belonging to Philemon, a wealthy Christian of Colossae. His name, meaning "useful" or "profitable," was commonly given to slaves. For a time, Onesimus belied his name; he apparently wronged or defrauded his master and fled to Rome, where he hoped to escape detection amid the vast population. There, through circumstances unknown to us, he came into contact with the imprisoned apostle Paul. Perhaps hunger, guilt, or memories of hearing about Paul in Philemon's household drew him to seek out the apostle. Under Paul's instruction, Onesimus became a Christian, truly begotten spiritually by Paul "in bonds."
☩Relationship with Paul
After his conversion, Onesimus became deeply attached to Paul and rendered valuable service to the imprisoned apostle. Paul developed such affection for him that he called him "my child," "a beloved brother," and even "my very heart." The apostle would gladly have kept Onesimus with him, finding his ministry helpful during imprisonment. However, Paul's sensitive regard for Philemon's rights compelled him to send Onesimus back to his master, though it meant parting with one who had become dear to him.
☩Return to Philemon
Paul sent Onesimus back to Colossae accompanied by Tychicus, who carried the letter to the Colossians. More importantly, Paul furnished Onesimus with a personal letter to Philemon—the Epistle to Philemon—pleading for his reception as "no longer as a slave, but above a slave, a brother beloved." Paul offered to repay any debt Onesimus owed, becoming his surety. The letter demonstrates exquisite tact and Christian love, transforming a potentially dangerous situation for a runaway slave into an opportunity for gospel witness. Though Scripture does not record the outcome, the preservation of Paul's letter suggests Philemon received Onesimus favorably, likely granting him freedom.
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Onesimus," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. VII (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.James Hastings (ed.), "Onesimus," in Dictionary of the Apostolic Church, vol. II (T. & T. Clark, 1915–1918).
- 3.James Orr (ed.), "Onesimus," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. IV (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).