Onesiphorus
“Profit-bringer, help-bringer”
Summary
Onesiphorus was a Christian from Ephesus who courageously sought out and ministered to the imprisoned Paul in Rome, earning the apostle's deep gratitude.
☩Ministry to Paul
Onesiphorus is mentioned twice in Paul's second letter to Timothy. He was a believer from Ephesus who traveled to Rome during Paul's second imprisonment, when the apostle faced imminent execution. Unlike many from Asia who had "turned away" from Paul during this dangerous time—including Phygellus and Hermogenes—Onesiphorus was "not ashamed of my chain" but diligently searched for Paul until he found him. He then repeatedly visited the apostle, providing comfort and practical assistance that Paul described as "refreshing." Paul also remembered with gratitude Onesiphorus's earlier ministry in Ephesus, which Timothy knew well.
☩Paul's Gratitude
Paul's appreciation for Onesiphorus was profound. He prayed that "the Lord grant mercy to the household of Onesiphorus" and expressed the wish that Onesiphorus would "find mercy from the Lord in that day." Paul also sent greetings to "the household of Onesiphorus" near the end of his letter. Some have debated whether Onesiphorus had died before Paul wrote, since Paul refers to his "household" rather than to Onesiphorus directly. Whether living or deceased, Onesiphorus remains a model of loyal friendship and Christian courage in times of persecution.
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Onesiphorus," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. VII (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.James Orr (ed.), "Onesiphorus," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. IV (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).
- 3.James Hastings (ed.), "Onesiphorus," in Dictionary of the Apostolic Church, vol. II (T. & T. Clark, 1915–1918).