Philemon 1:23 kjv

There salute thee Epaphras, my fellowprisoner in Christ Jesus;

Philemon 1:23 nkjv

Epaphras, my fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus, greets you,

Philemon 1:23 niv

Epaphras, my fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus, sends you greetings.

Philemon 1:23 esv

Epaphras, my fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus, sends greetings to you,

Philemon 1:23 nlt

Epaphras, my fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus, sends you his greetings.

Philemon 1 verses

Philemon 1 23 Meaning

Philemon 1:23 conveys a direct greeting from Epaphras to Philemon. It identifies Epaphras as one who shares Paul's imprisonment, specifically "in Christ Jesus." This signifies not just physical confinement, but a shared identity, purpose, and suffering for the sake of the Gospel. The verse underscores the strong bond and solidarity among Paul and his fellow workers who were united in their commitment to Christ, even in tribulation.

Philemon 1 23 Context

Philemon is a short, personal letter written by Paul from prison (likely Rome, though possibly Ephesus or Caesarea). It concerns Onesimus, a runaway slave who had become a believer and profitable to Paul during his incarceration. Paul is sending Onesimus back to Philemon, his former master, not as a slave but as "a beloved brother." The letter is a powerful appeal for reconciliation and demonstrates Christian principles of forgiveness, equality in Christ, and love.

Verse 23 appears in the closing salutations (Philemon 1:23-25). After making his earnest plea concerning Onesimus and expressing confidence in Philemon's obedience, Paul includes greetings from those with him. This serves several purposes: it personalizes the letter, reinforces the communal nature of the Christian faith, and adds moral weight to Paul's appeal by showing that other significant figures share his sentiments and stand in solidarity with his ministry, even in suffering. Epaphras's specific mention underscores his deep connection to the churches in the region (Colossae, where Philemon lived, and Laodicea, Hierapolis) and his commitment to Paul.

Philemon 1 23 Word analysis

• Epaphras (Greek: Ἐπαφρᾶς, Epaphras): A shortened form of Epaphroditus. He was a foundational figure in the churches of Colossae and Laodicea (Col 1:7; 4:12-13). Epaphras is depicted in Colossians as a faithful minister, a diligent worker, and a fervent intercessor. His presence with Paul, and greeting to Philemon, signifies shared gospel labor and a profound personal connection. Scholars widely consider him as the evangelist responsible for founding the church in Colossae.

• my (Greek: Μου, Mou): A possessive pronoun indicating personal connection. Paul considers Epaphras closely associated with his own life and ministry, highlighting a shared calling and burden. This is more than a casual acquaintance; it signifies deep partnership.

• fellow prisoner (Greek: συναιχμάλωτός, synaichmalōtos): This significant term means "co-captive" or "fellow captive." Paul uses it to describe several close associates (Col 4:10 for Aristarchus, Rom 16:7 for Andronicus and Junia).

  • Original Context: While Paul was under house arrest, it's debated if Epaphras was also literally imprisoned by Roman authorities alongside him. Some scholars believe this phrase might signify sharing in the hardships or restrictions of Paul's ministry (e.g., restricted movement, shared danger, or simply voluntary solidarity with Paul's chained state).
  • Significance: Whether literal or figurative, it emphasizes solidarity in suffering for the gospel. It implies that Epaphras willingly shared the risks, inconveniences, and burdens associated with Paul's imprisoned state and apostolic work. It represents a deep spiritual and practical bond forged through adversity for Christ. This term points to more than mere association; it speaks of a shared commitment that leads to shared fate.

• in Christ Jesus (Greek: ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ, en Christō Iēsou): This vital theological phrase defines the sphere, origin, and nature of their shared experience.

  • Significance: It means their status as "fellow prisoners" is not a random misfortune, but intrinsically linked to their union with Christ. Their suffering or limitations are "for Christ Jesus" (on account of Him) and "within Christ Jesus" (their identity and power source come from Him). This transforms their confinement into a purposeful act of devotion. It elevates human suffering by grounding it in a divine purpose. This union "in Christ" permeates every aspect of the believer's life, including hardship and ministry.

• greets (Greek: ἀσπάζεταί, aspazetai): A standard verb for conveying greetings or salutations.

  • Significance: It indicates a direct and personal communication from Epaphras to Philemon. Such greetings in ancient letters were common, serving to confirm relationships, establish a sense of community, and add legitimacy or personal weight to the letter's content.

Philemon 1 23 Bonus section

• Shared Burden and Identity: The reference to Epaphras as a "fellow prisoner" underscores a powerful aspect of early Christian community: the willingness to share burdens, even suffering and imprisonment, for the sake of the Gospel. This goes beyond mere sympathy to an active identification with another's trials.
• Significance of Greetings: In Pauline letters, greetings are rarely mere formalities. They serve to build communal bonds, signify shared spiritual family, and endorse the message being delivered. Epaphras's greeting adds specific weight given his significant role in the Colossian church (Col 1:7; 4:12-13).
• The Power of "In Christ": This foundational theological phrase shapes the identity and experience of believers. Even suffering is viewed through the lens of one's union with Christ, making it meaningful and purposeful rather than futile. It imbues Epaphras's "imprisonment" with redemptive significance.
• Hidden Hero: Epaphras, though mentioned sparingly, emerges as a vital figure in the expansion of the early church. His faithfulness, zeal, and prayer life (Col 4:12-13) mark him as a dedicated servant, a prime example of those often "behind the scenes" who contribute immeasurably to God's work.

Philemon 1 23 Commentary

Philemon 1:23, though brief, reveals profound truths about early Christian fellowship and commitment. Epaphras, an unsung hero of the New Testament, is presented not just as a casual associate of Paul, but as a "fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus." This speaks volumes about the depth of their camaraderie forged in shared gospel ministry and hardship. The term "fellow prisoner" highlights a solidarity that goes beyond physical confinement; it suggests a unity of purpose, enduring tribulation for the sake of Christ and His message. This identity "in Christ Jesus" transforms what might otherwise be seen as a misfortune into a sacred service, a participation in the suffering of Christ Himself for the advancement of His kingdom.

This verse subtly strengthens Paul's appeal to Philemon. By having Epaphras, a beloved figure in Philemon's local church context, offer greetings as a fellow sufferer for Christ, Paul not only personalizes the appeal but also emphasizes that the grace he advocates (reconciliation with Onesimus) is not just a personal request, but a communal Christian value shared by those dedicated to the Gospel. It underscores the truth that believers are bound together not only in faith but also in shared burdens, especially when those burdens arise from their devotion to Christ.