Topical Bible: Servant: Good: Onesimus

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Onesimus is a notable figure in the New Testament, primarily known from the Epistle to Philemon. His account is a profound example of transformation and redemption, illustrating the power of the Gospel to change lives and social relationships.

Background and Context

Onesimus was a servant, or slave, belonging to Philemon, a Christian leader in the Colossian church. The name "Onesimus" means "useful" or "profitable," which is significant given the transformation he undergoes. Initially, Onesimus was not living up to his name, as he had wronged Philemon, possibly by theft or by running away (Philemon 1:18). His actions led him to Rome, where he encountered the Apostle Paul.

Conversion and Transformation

While in Rome, Onesimus met Paul, who was under house arrest. Through Paul's ministry, Onesimus became a Christian. Paul refers to him as "my child, whom I have begotten in my imprisonment" (Philemon 1:10), indicating a spiritual rebirth and a deep personal connection. Onesimus's conversion is a testament to the transformative power of the Gospel, which transcends social and cultural barriers.

Paul's Appeal to Philemon

Paul's letter to Philemon is a personal and heartfelt appeal for Onesimus. Paul writes, "Formerly he was useless to you, but now he has become useful both to you and to me" (Philemon 1:11). This play on Onesimus's name highlights the change in his character and usefulness through Christ. Paul urges Philemon to receive Onesimus not merely as a servant but as a beloved brother in the Lord (Philemon 1:16).

Paul's intercession for Onesimus is a profound example of Christian advocacy and reconciliation. He offers to repay any debt Onesimus owes, stating, "If he has wronged you in any way or owes you anything, charge it to me" (Philemon 1:18). This reflects the Christian principle of bearing one another's burdens and the redemptive work of Christ, who pays the debt of sin on behalf of believers.

Significance in the Early Church

Onesimus's account is significant for several reasons. It challenges the social norms of the time, particularly the institution of slavery, by emphasizing the equality of all believers in Christ. The letter to Philemon is a powerful reminder of the Christian call to forgiveness, reconciliation, and the breaking down of social barriers.

Tradition holds that Onesimus may have later become a leader in the early church, possibly serving as a bishop in Ephesus. His life exemplifies the potential for personal transformation and the impact of Christian discipleship.

Biblical References

· Philemon 1:10-18: Paul's appeal for Onesimus and his transformation.
· Colossians 4:9: Onesimus is mentioned as a faithful and beloved brother, accompanying Tychicus in delivering Paul's letter to the Colossians.

Onesimus's journey from a runaway servant to a beloved brother in Christ serves as an enduring testament to the power of the Gospel to redeem and restore. His account encourages believers to seek reconciliation and to view one another through the lens of Christ's love and grace.

Nave's Topical Index

Philemon 1:11
Which in time past was to you unprofitable, but now profitable to you and to me:
Nave's Topical Index

Library

Gehazi
... Elisha calls him "my heart," just as Paul calls Onesimus his heart. ... The expedition
had been suggested by a servant who generously paid good for evil. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/milligan/men of the bible some lesser-known/gehazi.htm

Philemon i. 3-Jan
... Who will not be willing to be the friend and servant of so good a soul? ... [1540]
He may mean a stranger to Onesimus. [1541] ie of Onesimus. ...
/.../homily i philemon i 3-jan.htm

In Rome
... It was a severe test for this servant thus to ... Jesus." The apostle reminded Philemon
that every good purpose and ... I beseech thee for my son Onesimus, whom I have ...
//christianbookshelf.org/white/the acts of the apostles/lesson 43 in rome.htm

Philemon i. 17-19
... or rather this too was in behalf of Onesimus, that not ... not grant him a favor in behalf
of his own servant. ... And indeed prayer is a great good, salutary, and ...
/.../homily iii philemon i 17-19.htm

Philemon i. 6-Apr
... "Onesimus,". ... No longer as a bond-servant, but more than a bond-servant, a brother ...
his natural affection; and by calling him his brother, his great good will for ...
/.../homily ii philemon i 6-apr.htm

Homilies of St. John Chrysostom, Archbishop of Constantinople, on ...
... in Philemon, was unwilling to detain Onesimus, so useful ... best counsel, said, "Art
thou called, being a servant? ... There being then so many good effects"and yet ...
/.../homilies of st john chrysostom 4.htm

Colossians iv. 5, 6
... he will speak no falsehood; if "a fellow-servant," he hath ... no longer forbear, we
thought it good to be ... Ver.9. "With Onesimus, the beloved and faithful brother ...
/.../homily xi colossians iv 5.htm

The Christian Home
... He took upon Himself the form of a servant, hiding His ... 4:1). When the runaway slave,
Onesimus, is sent ... not given to much wine, teachers of good things; that ...
/.../sell/studies in the life of the christian/study x the christian home.htm

Homilies of St. John Chrysostom,
... Onesimus himself, as he says, "With Onesimus the faithful ... hear the contrary; "Wicked
and slothful servant" (Matthew 25 ... rock, and some upon very good ground; is ...
/.../homilies of st john chrysostom 2.htm

Discourse II.
... to Philemon the master the Apostle joined Onesimus the servant ... in the Economy, according
to the good pleasure [2271 ... or created,' or formed,' or servant,' or son ...
/.../athanasius/select works and letters or athanasius/discourse ii.htm