Topical Bible: Kindness: Onesiphorus to Paul

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Onesiphorus is a lesser-known figure in the New Testament, yet his acts of kindness towards the Apostle Paul are noteworthy and provide a profound example of Christian fellowship and support. His account is primarily found in the Apostle Paul's second letter to Timothy, where Paul expresses deep gratitude for Onesiphorus's kindness during a time of great need.

Biblical Account

In 2 Timothy 1:16-18, Paul writes, "May the Lord grant mercy to the household of Onesiphorus, because he often refreshed me and was not ashamed of my chains. On the contrary, when he arrived in Rome, he searched diligently until he found me. May the Lord grant him to find mercy from the Lord on that day. You know very well how many ways he helped me in Ephesus."

Context and Significance

During Paul's second imprisonment in Rome, he faced isolation and the threat of execution. Many of his companions had deserted him, as noted in 2 Timothy 1:15, where Paul mentions that "all who are in Asia have turned away from me." In this context of abandonment and hardship, Onesiphorus's actions stand out as a beacon of loyalty and compassion.

Onesiphorus's kindness is highlighted by his willingness to associate with Paul despite the potential risks. In the Roman world, being linked to a prisoner, especially one accused of crimes against the state, could lead to suspicion or persecution. Yet, Onesiphorus was "not ashamed" of Paul's chains, demonstrating a courageous commitment to his friend and fellow believer.

Acts of Kindness

1. Refreshing Paul: Onesiphorus "often refreshed" Paul, suggesting that his support was not a one-time gesture but a consistent and ongoing effort. This refreshment likely included providing for Paul's physical needs, such as food, clothing, or other necessities, as well as offering emotional and spiritual encouragement.

2. Diligent Search: Onesiphorus's determination to find Paul in Rome is particularly noteworthy. The text indicates that he "searched diligently" until he located Paul, reflecting a deep commitment to his well-being. This effort would have required time, resources, and perhaps navigating the complexities of the Roman prison system.

3. Support in Ephesus: Paul also recalls the many ways Onesiphorus helped him in Ephesus, suggesting a history of support and kindness that extended beyond the immediate circumstances of Paul's imprisonment.

Theological Implications

Onesiphorus's kindness to Paul exemplifies the Christian virtues of loyalty, courage, and selflessness. His actions align with the biblical exhortation to "bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ" (Galatians 6:2). In a broader sense, Onesiphorus's example serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting fellow believers, especially those who are suffering for the sake of the Gospel.

Paul's prayer for mercy upon the household of Onesiphorus underscores the spiritual significance of such acts of kindness. It reflects the belief that God honors and rewards those who demonstrate love and compassion to His servants. The mention of Onesiphorus in Paul's letter ensures that his legacy of kindness is remembered and celebrated within the Christian community.

Nave's Topical Index

2 Timothy 1:16-18
The Lord give mercy to the house of Onesiphorus; for he oft refreshed me, and was not ashamed of my chain:
Nave's Topical Index

Library

2 Timothy i. 13-18
... For hear Paul saying, "Partaking in the memories of the Saints ... And observe how, besides
commending Onesiphorus, he specifies his kindness, "he oft ...
/.../homily iii 2 timothy i.htm

Homilies on the Epistles to Timothy, Titus, and Philemon.
... Jerome, and St. Augustin, [3601]ib. (note) . Onesiphorus, St. Paul's prayer
for, [3602]485; his kindness to St. Paul, [3603]ib. ...
/.../homilies on the epistles to.htm

Pastoral and Personal
... Onesiphorus had difficulty in finding him (2:Tim.1:16 ... 1:5) after which he is to rejoin
Paul (3:12 ... Kindness and gentleness and the avoidance of foolish questions ...
/.../sell/bible studies in the life of paul/study x pastoral and personal.htm

The Pastoral Epistles
... Duty towards rulers and all men; the kindness of God; foolish ... The Ephesian Onesiphorus
had acted otherwise, and when in Rome had sought ... Paul anticipates death. ...
/.../pullan/the books of the new testament/chapter xvii the pastoral epistles.htm

Translation from the Greek.
... say, who, although they have experienced the great kindness of God ... But it is not
in vain that Paul gives such ... well, as he does the house of Onesiphorus in these ...
/.../origen/origen de principiis/translation from the greek.htm

Translated from Latin of Rufinus.
... For those masters who are remarkable for kindness to their ... In vain, also, does Paul
blame some for having ... rightly, like the house of Onesiphorus, saying, "The ...
/.../origen/origen de principiis/translated from latin of rufinus.htm

Israel's Hope Encouraged;
... the beginning of the world, but extending to and exercising loving-kindness and
mercy ... Paul, when he was come down again from out of paradise, into which he was ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/israels hope encouraged.htm