St Onesimus was a slave in prison who met the Apostle Paul while held there. St Paul would convert him and write an epistle back to his owner Philemon. Because Paul knew Philemon, he would write to him and exhort him to accept Onesimus back, but treating him as an equal in Christ.
1:15 For perhaps he was therefore separated from you for a while, that you would have him forever, 1:16 no longer as a slave, but more than a slave, a beloved brother, especially to me, but how much rather to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord.
Onesimus would become a missionary for Paul and accompany Timothy traveling to Churches Paul had founded, many with letters we know have in the canon of scripture.
On Monday, February 16th, we celebrate the feast day of St Onesimus, who name means helpful; profitable. | |
