Onesimus is a man from the time of the New Testament, first mentioned in Colossians 4:9.
About Onesimus
Slave on whose behalf Paul wrote the Letter to Philemon. A slave of Philemon, he had robbed his master and run away from him. He is also mentioned with Tychicus as a bearer of the Letter to the Colossians (Col 4:9), indicating that he came from that region. Paul became acquainted with him, converted him, and developed a close friendship with him (Phlm 1:10). Paul wanted to keep Onesimus with him during his imprisonment because he had been helpful to him (in Greek, Onesimus means “useful”). However, Paul returned the slave to his master, confident that the runaway slave would be received by his former owner as a Christian brother and that Philemon would charge any wrong that Onesimus had done to Paul’s account.
See also Philemon, Letter to.
Key References
With him I am sending Onesimus, our faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They will tell you about everything here.
I appeal to you for my child Onesimus, whose father I became while I was in chains.
The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.
All Scripture References (4)
Colossians (2)
With him I am sending Onesimus, our faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They will tell you about everything here.
This greeting is in my own hand—Paul. Remember my chains. Grace be with you.
Philemon (2)
I appeal to you for my child Onesimus, whose father I became while I was in chains.
The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.