Onesiphorus
PeopleWhat is the meaning of Onesiphorus in the Bible?
Onesiphorus was a Christian associate of the Apostle Paul who visited him during his imprisonment in Rome, providing comfort and assistance despite the associated risks, and who maintained a household in Ephesus that served as a center for the local Christian community.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding Onesiphorus provides context for the social networks and mutual support systems that sustained early Christian leaders under persecution, illustrating the practical application of the exhortation to remember and honor those who serve the community.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Genealogy & Community Insight: When reading, notice how the lineage and actions of Onesiphorus reveal God's preservation of family clans and community records across generations.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Onesiphorus in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Onesiphorus clarify?
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Onesiphorus." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/onesiphorus/