What is the meaning of Philemon 1:23?

Epaphras

- Introduced earlier to the believers in Colossae as “our beloved fellow servant” who first taught them the gospel (Colossians 1:7-8; 4:12-13), Epaphras stands out as a man devoted to prayer and gospel labor.

- His mention here reminds Philemon that gospel ministry is a team effort, not a solo endeavor (1 Corinthians 3:6-9).

- Like Epaphras, every believer can play a vital role—whether through teaching, intercession, or encouragement—to advance the cause of Christ (Romans 12:4-8).

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my fellow prisoner

- Paul is writing from confinement (Acts 28:30-31), and Epaphras evidently shares that hardship, either as an actual detainee (Colossians 4:10) or by ministering so closely to Paul that he is treated as one.

- Their joint imprisonment underscores the cost of following Jesus (2 Timothy 1:8; Hebrews 13:3).

- Fellowship forged in suffering often deepens relationships and authenticates the message proclaimed (Philippians 1:12-14).

- Practical takeaway: trials can unify believers and amplify the testimony of the gospel when endured faithfully (James 1:2-4).

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in Christ Jesus

- The phrase highlights the ultimate bond between Paul, Epaphras, and Philemon: union with Christ (Romans 8:1; Galatians 3:28).

- This spiritual identity supersedes social status, life circumstance, or physical location (Ephesians 2:13-22).

- Such union empowers believers to face suffering with hope, knowing they are secure in the Savior (2 Corinthians 5:17).

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sends you greetings

- In New Testament letters, greetings are more than polite formalities; they reinforce tangible fellowship across distance (Romans 16:3-16; 1 Corinthians 16:19-20).

- Epaphras’s greeting would assure Philemon—and the entire house church meeting in his home (Philemon 1:2)—that they are remembered, valued, and prayed for.

- These brief salutations prompt believers today to practice intentional encouragement, especially toward those laboring under pressure (1 Thessalonians 5:11).

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summary

Philemon 1:23 spotlights Epaphras as a devoted coworker who shares Paul’s chains for the gospel. Their fellowship “in Christ Jesus” turns a bleak prison into a platform for encouragement. By sending greetings, Epaphras models the compassionate, prayerful support every believer is called to extend, proving that gospel partnership thrives even in the hardest places.