Philemon 1:23 – Epaphras, my fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus, sends you greetings.
Extended Explanation of the Verse
In this verse, Paul begins the closing section of his letter to Philemon. He mentions Epaphras, who is with him at the time, and refers to him as “my fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus.” Paul is letting Philemon know that Epaphras, someone likely known to Philemon, also sends his greetings.
This brief line shows us something important: Paul was not alone. Even though he was in prison, he had faithful companions who shared in his mission, his suffering, and his encouragement. Referring to Epaphras as a fellow prisoner highlights their shared hardship for the sake of the Gospel. These were not just casual friends-they were united in Christ and in the challenges that came with following Him.
Paul includes Epaphras’s greeting as a way to strengthen the personal bond between everyone involved in this letter.
Historical Context
Epaphras was a leader from Colossae (Colossians 1:7; 4:12) and likely the one who brought the message of Jesus to that region. He was a man devoted to prayer and ministry. Paul refers to him in other letters as someone who labored hard for the church.
Paul is writing this letter while under house arrest in Rome (Acts 28:16, 30-31), and Epaphras is likely there with him, either as a fellow prisoner or someone so closely associated with Paul that he shared in his sufferings and limitations.
This kind of partnership was costly. Supporting someone in prison, especially for their faith, could put a person at risk. Epaphras’s willingness to stand with Paul shows his faithfulness to both God and his fellow believers.
Theological Implications
This verse reminds us that suffering for the faith is not something to be ashamed of. Paul and Epaphras both bore the cost of following Jesus, and they did so together. This reflects the kind of deep Christian fellowship that comes from sharing not only beliefs but also trials and struggles.
It also shows the beauty of the church as a spiritual family. Paul didn’t see himself as a lone apostle-he was part of a team. Faith is meant to be lived out in community, even when it’s hard.
Furthermore, the fact that Paul passes along greetings tells us that encouragement and personal connection matter. Even a simple message like this can remind someone that they are not forgotten.
Literary Analysis
This verse is part of the final greetings, a common feature in Paul’s letters. But it’s more than a formal goodbye. The phrase “my fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus” is deeply meaningful. Paul isn’t just listing names-he’s honoring someone who shares in his mission and pain.
By including this greeting, Paul builds a sense of community and unity. It’s a reminder that others are watching and caring about what happens between Philemon and Onesimus. This makes Paul’s earlier appeal even more weighty.
The name Epaphras appearing here adds a personal touch, connecting Philemon to someone who may have helped him come to faith.
Biblical Cross-References
- Colossians 1:7 – Epaphras is described as a “dear fellow servant” and “faithful minister of Christ.”
- Colossians 4:12–13 – Epaphras is said to be “always wrestling in prayer for you.”
- 2 Timothy 2:9 – Paul speaks of suffering for the Gospel, “even to the point of being chained like a criminal.”
- Hebrews 13:3 – “Remember those in prison as if you were together with them in prison.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse may be short, but it says a lot about loyalty, support, and unity in the body of Christ. It reminds us that we are not meant to live the Christian life alone. We need others to walk with us, pray with us, and even suffer with us when things are hard.
It also encourages us to honor those who are standing firm in difficult circumstances-whether that’s a missionary overseas, a pastor facing opposition, or a friend going through a spiritual struggle.
Sometimes the best thing we can do is simply send a word of encouragement, like Epaphras did. A greeting, a note, or a prayer can make a big difference.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God places us in a spiritual family so that we don’t have to go through life’s hardships alone. His love is often shown through the people He puts in our lives-fellow believers who stand with us in good times and in trials.
The presence of Epaphras with Paul in prison reflects the kind of love God desires for His people: sacrificial, present, and steadfast. God uses community to care for His children, especially in times of need.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Epaphras and Paul shared in suffering “in Christ Jesus.” This reminds us that all of our hardships for the Gospel are ultimately because we belong to Jesus. He told His followers they would face trouble (John 16:33), but also that He would be with them.
Their willingness to suffer points us to Christ’s own suffering on our behalf. Jesus bore our sin and shame so that we could be reconciled to God. Paul and Epaphras were willing to face hardship because they knew Jesus had already paid the highest price.
Their faithfulness is a reflection of the faithfulness of Christ, who never leaves His people alone in their trials.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Who are the “fellow servants” in your life who walk with you in faith and hardship?
- How can you support someone who is suffering for their faith or going through a difficult season?
- Are you willing to stand by others even when it costs you something?
- How has Christian community encouraged you during a time of trial?
- In what ways can you offer simple encouragement-like a greeting or a prayer-to someone who needs it?