Onesiphorus
Onesiphorus was a believer from Ephesus whom Paul remembered with deep gratitude in his final letter. Unlike others who abandoned Paul, Onesiphorus 'oft refreshed' him and was not ashamed of his chains, diligently seeking him out when he was imprisoned in Rome. Paul's prayer that he find mercy from the Lord stands as a tribute to costly, unashamed friendship.
Biography
- Occupation
- Paul's friend and supporter
- Era
- New Testament
- Nationality
- Ephesian
Did You Know?
Onesiphorus stands out in Paul's final letter as the friend who 'was not ashamed of my chain' and 'sought me out very diligently' in Rome (2 Timothy 1:16-17), at a time when others had abandoned the imprisoned apostle.
His name fittingly means 'profit-bringer,' and Paul says he 'oft refreshed me' - a picture of practical, courageous friendship under persecution.
Paul's poignant prayer that Onesiphorus 'may find mercy of the Lord in that day' has led some to think he had already died, making the tribute a memorial to a faithful supporter.
Key Chapters
Key Passages
Not Ashamed of Paul's Chains
2 Timothy 1:16-18
Paul thanks God for Onesiphorus, who often refreshed him and sought him out in Rome without shame.
16he Lord give mercy unto the house of Onesiphorus; for he oft refreshed me, and was not ashamed of my chain: