Onesiphorus
Onesiphorus was a Christian mentioned in the New Testament letter of Second Timothy. He is remembered for his courageous hospitality and kindness towards St. Paul when Paul was imprisoned in Rome, undertaking a significant journey to offer comfort. Both Orthodox and Roman Catholic traditions consider him a martyr.
- Century
- 1st century
- Country Or Region
- Italy
Key Facts
- ›Onesiphorus is mentioned in the New Testament letter of Second Timothy.
- ›He is described as having sought out Paul, who was imprisoned in Rome.
- ›Paul praises Onesiphorus for his hospitality, kindness, and courage.
- ›Orthodox tradition identifies him as one of the seventy disciples chosen by Jesus.
- ›He is believed to have served as bishop at Colophon and Corinth.
- ›Both Catholic and Orthodox churches hold that he died a martyr in Parium.
About Onesiphorus
Onesiphorus was a Christian figure mentioned in the New Testament, specifically in the letter of Second Timothy. His name, of Greek origin, signifies "bringing profit" or "useful." He is primarily remembered for his acts of loyalty and courage towards St. Paul.
Life and Tradition
According to Orthodox tradition, Saint Onesiphorus was among the seventy disciples chosen and sent by Jesus to preach. He is believed to have served as a bishop, first in Colophon in Asia Minor, and later in Corinth. Both the Orthodox and Roman Catholic churches hold that he met his end as a martyr in the city of Parium, situated on the shores of the Hellespont.
Role in Second Timothy
The New Testament text highlights the dangerous environment for Christians in Rome during Nero's reign. Paul, in his letter to Timothy, commends Onesiphorus for his hospitality, kindness, and bravery. This praise is particularly significant as Onesiphorus is contrasted with other Christians in Asia who had abandoned Paul at that time. Paul sends greetings to Onesiphorus's household in Ephesus, recalling the assistance he provided there earlier.
Some scholars interpret Paul's use of the past tense when referring to Onesiphorus, along with his blessings for his household and mercy for him "in that day," to suggest that Onesiphorus may have died by the time the letter was written. His mention, alongside Priscilla and Aquila, in the closing verses of Second Timothy (4:19) further distinguishes his situation. Catholics cite Paul's reference to Onesiphorus as an early example of prayer for the dead.
Notable Actions
Onesiphorus is notably credited with undertaking a journey of approximately 1000 miles, crossing significant bodies of water, from Ephesus to Rome. His purpose was to specifically seek out and find Paul, who was imprisoned at the time, in order to offer comfort.
Commemoration
Onesiphorus is commemorated liturgically on September 6 in the Roman Catholic Church and on September 7 in the Orthodox Church. It is important to distinguish him from another individual named Onesiphorus who was martyred during the Diocletian persecution and is commemorated on November 9.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Onesiphorus?
Onesiphorus was a Christian mentioned in the New Testament letter of Second Timothy. He is known for his acts of hospitality and courage towards St. Paul during Paul's imprisonment in Rome.
What did Onesiphorus do for St. Paul?
According to Second Timothy, Onesiphorus sought out Paul, who was imprisoned in Rome, to offer him comfort. This involved a journey of approximately 1000 miles from Ephesus to Rome.
Why is Onesiphorus significant?
Onesiphorus is significant for his loyalty and kindness to Paul during a time of persecution, contrasting with others who had deserted Paul. His actions are seen as a testament to his faith and courage.
Is Onesiphorus considered a saint?
Yes, both the Orthodox and Roman Catholic churches hold Onesiphorus in veneration. Orthodox tradition believes he was one of the seventy disciples chosen by Jesus, and both traditions consider him a martyr.
When is Onesiphorus commemorated?
Onesiphorus is commemorated on September 6 in the Roman Catholic Church and on September 7 in the Orthodox Church.
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Paulinus of Antioch
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