Onesimus

Technical Profile

• Name Meaning: Greek Onēsimos (“useful, beneficial”), echoed in Paul’s wordplay in Philemon.
• Period/Era: Apostolic Age (Roman Imperial Context)
• Main References: Philemon 1:10–18; Colossians 4:9
• Key Connections: Paul the apostle; Philemon (a Christian householder); the church that met in Philemon’s house

Who was Onesimus?

Onesimus was a slave associated with Philemon and appears in Paul’s short letter to Philemon.
He came into contact with Paul and is described as having become Paul’s “child” in faith (Philemon 1:10).
Paul presents him as a believer and urges his reception as more than a slave, “as a beloved brother” (Philemon 1:16).
He is also named as traveling with Tychicus to the Colossian church (Colossians 4:9).

Key Events & Achievements

• Event 1: Became a Christian while Paul was imprisoned and was personally commended by Paul (Philemon 1:10–12).
• Event 2: Was sent back to Philemon with Paul’s appeal for reconciliation and changed status within the Christian community (Philemon 1:15–17).
• Event 3: Traveled with Tychicus as a trusted messenger to deliver news and instruction to the Colossian believers (Colossians 4:7–9).

Life Lesson & Legacy

Onesimus illustrates how the apostolic mission integrated personal reconciliation and community belonging within the early church.

Key Verse

“Perhaps the reason he was separated from you for a little while was that you might have him back forever—” — Philemon 1:15, NIV