Philemon 1:23

KJV

There salute thee Epaphras, my fellowprisoner in Christ Jesus;

KJV (with Strong's)

There salute {G782} thee {G4571} Epaphras {G1889}, my {G3450} fellowprisoner {G4869} in {G1722} Christ {G5547} Jesus {G2424};

Complete Jewish Bible

Epaphras, my fellow-prisoner for the sake of the Messiah Yeshua, sends greetings to you,

Berean Standard Bible

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

American Standard Version

Epaphras, my fellow-prisoner in Christ Jesus, saluteth thee;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Philemon 1:23 concludes Paul's personal greetings in his letter to Philemon, specifically conveying the salutation from Epaphras. This verse highlights the deep bonds of fellowship and shared commitment among early believers, particularly those who endured hardship and imprisonment for the sake of the Gospel. It underscores the profound solidarity experienced by those "in Christ Jesus," uniting them in purpose and suffering.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is part of the concluding remarks and greetings in Paul's deeply personal letter to Philemon. The primary body of the letter (Philemon 1:4-22) is an impassioned appeal from Paul, a prisoner, to Philemon, a wealthy Christian in Colossae, concerning Onesimus, Philemon's runaway slave who had become a believer and valuable companion to Paul during his imprisonment. The greetings from Epaphras and others (Philemon 1:24) serve to broaden the scope of the appeal, demonstrating the wider Christian community's support for Paul and, implicitly, for his request regarding Onesimus. These salutations reinforce the communal nature of the early church and the network of co-laborers who shared Paul's burdens and mission, setting the stage for the final benediction in [Philemon 1:25](/philemon/1-25 "Philemon 1:25 - Grace of the Lord Jesus Christ").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul wrote this letter during one of his imprisonments, commonly believed to be in Rome (c. AD 60-62), though Ephesus or Caesarea are also possibilities. Roman imprisonment was often harsh, with prisoners reliant on friends for support and provisions. The designation "fellowprisoner" for Epaphras suggests a shared experience of confinement, either literal imprisonment alongside Paul or a metaphorical "captivity" due to their shared commitment to the Gospel, which often led to persecution. Epaphras himself was a significant figure, likely the founder of the church in Colossae ([Colossians 1:7](/colossians/1-7 "Colossians 1:7 - Epaphras, a faithful minister")), and his presence with Paul during this difficult time speaks to the strong ties and mutual support within the early Christian community. The letter also subtly touches on the social dynamics of the Roman world, particularly the institution of slavery, which the Gospel was beginning to transform from within.
* **Key Themes:** Philemon 1:23 contributes to several overarching themes in the letter and Paul's broader theology. Firstly, it emphasizes **Solidarity in Suffering**, illustrating how believers, like Paul and Epaphras, shared in the hardships and persecution that often accompanied the proclamation of the Gospel. This shared experience forged deep bonds, as seen in [Philippians 1:7](/philippians/1-7 "Philippians 1:7 - Paul's Affection for the Philippians"), where Paul speaks of the Philippians being "partakers of my grace, both in my bonds." Secondly, the verse highlights **Christian Fellowship and Loyalty**, showcasing the unwavering commitment of Epaphras to Paul, even in imprisonment. This loyalty reflects the profound spiritual family created by faith in Christ, transcending social status or personal comfort. Finally, it subtly points to **Commitment to the Gospel**, as Epaphras's willingness to endure hardship alongside Paul underscores the ultimate priority given to the advancement of Christ's message, a theme central to Paul's life and ministry, as expressed in [Philippians 1:12](/philippians/1-12 "Philippians 1:12 - The Advancement of the Gospel").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Epaphras (Greek, _Epaphrâs'_):** This is a contracted form of Epaphroditus, referring to a specific individual who was a Christian and a faithful minister from Colossae (Colossians 1:7). His presence with Paul, even in imprisonment, underscores his dedication and the strong network of co-laborers in the early church. His greeting here signifies his personal regard for Philemon and his involvement in Paul's ministry.
* **fellowprisoner (Greek, _synaichmálōtos'_):** This term literally means "co-captive" or "fellow prisoner of war." While it could indicate a literal shared cell or confinement, it more broadly signifies someone who is in captivity or under arrest for the same cause. In this context, it powerfully conveys a profound solidarity in suffering for the sake of the Christian message, highlighting a shared fate or struggle endured for Christ.
* **in (Greek, _en'_):** This preposition denotes a deep, fixed position, state, or even instrumentality. When used with "Christ Jesus," it signifies not merely a location, but a profound spiritual union and identity. To be "in Christ Jesus" means to be united with Him, to share in His life, purpose, and even His suffering. This phrase transforms the meaning of "fellowprisoner," indicating that their shared captivity is not just a physical reality, but a spiritual one, experienced within the sphere of their relationship with Christ.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"There salute thee Epaphras,"**: This clause introduces Epaphras as one who sends greetings to Philemon. The act of "saluting" (Greek: _aspázomai_) signifies a warm, personal greeting, an embrace, or a welcome. It emphasizes the personal nature of this letter and the relational bonds within the early Christian community. Epaphras, as a known figure to Philemon, extends his personal regards, adding weight to Paul's appeal.
* **"my fellowprisoner in Christ Jesus;"**: This phrase describes Epaphras's relationship to Paul and the nature of their shared experience. The term "fellowprisoner" immediately conveys a sense of shared hardship and solidarity. The crucial qualifier "in Christ Jesus" elevates this shared experience from mere physical confinement to a spiritual reality. It means their imprisonment, or shared suffering, is not random but is intrinsically linked to their identity and union with Christ, undertaken for His sake and empowered by their relationship with Him. This phrase underscores that their bond is not just human camaraderie but a spiritual fellowship rooted in their common Lord.

#### Literary Devices
Philemon 1:23 effectively employs **Identification** and **Emphasis** to convey its message. By identifying Epaphras as "my fellowprisoner," Paul immediately establishes a deep bond of shared experience and suffering, emphasizing the cost of discipleship and the solidarity among those who bear it. The phrase "in Christ Jesus" functions as a powerful **Theological Qualifier**, transforming the literal meaning of "fellowprisoner" into a spiritual reality. It elevates their shared hardship from a mere unfortunate circumstance to a purposeful suffering that is intrinsically linked to their union with Christ. This phrase serves to emphasize that their identity and purpose are rooted in Christ, and even their suffering is experienced within that divine relationship. Furthermore, the inclusion of Epaphras's greeting can be seen as a form of **Communal Witness**, demonstrating to Philemon that Paul's appeal is supported by a wider circle of respected believers, adding moral weight to his request.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The designation of Epaphras as Paul's "fellowprisoner in Christ Jesus" is a profound theological statement. It highlights the early church's understanding that suffering for the Gospel was not an anomaly but an expected part of Christian discipleship, a participation in the sufferings of Christ. This shared experience forged deep spiritual bonds, demonstrating that Christian fellowship transcends physical proximity or social status, being rooted instead in a common identity and purpose found "in Christ." It points to the reality that believers are united not only in joy and blessing but also in tribulation, finding strength and solidarity in their shared commitment to the Lord and His mission. This solidarity is a powerful witness to the world, showcasing the transformative power of the Gospel to create a community bound by love and sacrifice.

* [Philippians 3:10](/philippians/3-10 "Philippians 3:10 - Knowing Christ and the Power of His Resurrection")
* [Colossians 1:24](/colossians/1-24 "Colossians 1:24 - Paul's Suffering for the Church")
* [2 Timothy 2:9](/2_timothy/2-9 "2 Timothy 2:9 - Paul's Suffering for the Gospel")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Philemon 1:23 offers a compelling picture of Christian fellowship forged in the crucible of shared suffering. It challenges us to consider the depth of our own spiritual bonds and our willingness to stand in solidarity with fellow believers, especially those facing hardship or persecution for their faith. Epaphras's example reminds us that true companionship in Christ involves not just shared joys but also shared burdens, a commitment that goes beyond convenience. This verse calls us to value and cultivate relationships with those who are truly "fellowprisoners in Christ Jesus" with us, whether in literal confinement or in the broader sense of enduring the challenges and costs of living faithfully in a fallen world. It encourages us to pray for, support, and actively participate in the struggles of our spiritual family, recognizing that our unity in Christ strengthens us all.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways do I experience solidarity with other believers, especially in times of difficulty or opposition?**
* **How does my understanding of being "in Christ Jesus" shape my willingness to share in the burdens or sufferings of others?**
* **Who are the "Epaphrases" in my life—those who stand with me in shared commitment to the Gospel, even at personal cost? How can I better support them?**

### FAQ
**Who was Epaphras, and what was his significance?**

Answer: Epaphras was a significant figure in the early Christian church, specifically known as a faithful minister from Colossae, likely instrumental in founding the church there (Colossians 1:7). He traveled to Rome to be with Paul during his imprisonment, demonstrating deep loyalty and commitment. He is also mentioned in [Colossians 4:12-13](/colossians/4-12-13 "Colossians 4:12-13 - Epaphras's Zeal for the Colossians"), where Paul describes him as "always laboring fervently for you in prayers" and bearing "great zeal for you, and those in Laodicea, and those in Hierapolis." His presence with Paul in prison, as a "fellowprisoner," highlights his dedication to the Gospel and his willingness to share in the hardships of ministry.

**What does "fellowprisoner in Christ Jesus" imply beyond literal imprisonment?**

Answer: While "fellowprisoner" (Greek: _synaichmálōtos_) can certainly refer to literal shared confinement, as Paul himself was imprisoned, the phrase "in Christ Jesus" elevates its meaning. It implies a deeper, spiritual solidarity. It suggests that Epaphras's "imprisonment" or shared suffering was not merely a physical state but was directly related to his identity and purpose in Christ. This could mean he was imprisoned for the same cause as Paul (preaching the Gospel), or it could metaphorically refer to a shared experience of being "bound" or constrained by their commitment to Christ and His mission, enduring persecution or hardship for His sake. It underscores a profound spiritual union and shared destiny with Christ, where even suffering becomes a means of participating in His work, as seen in [Philippians 1:29](/philippians/1-29 "Philippians 1:29 - The Privilege of Suffering for Christ").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Philemon 1:23, with its mention of Epaphras as Paul's "fellowprisoner in Christ Jesus," finds its ultimate fulfillment in the person and work of Christ. The concept of shared suffering and solidarity, so powerfully expressed here, is fundamentally rooted in the reality of Jesus Christ, who Himself entered into human suffering, becoming a "prisoner" of humanity's sin and death to set us free. His incarnation meant a profound solidarity with humanity, taking on our flesh and experiencing our weaknesses, yet without sin ([Hebrews 4:15](/hebrews/4-15 "Hebrews 4:15 - Jesus, Our High Priest, Sympathizes with Our Weaknesses")). More profoundly, the phrase "in Christ Jesus" points to the new identity and union believers have with their Lord. Our shared suffering, our "fellow-imprisonment" for the Gospel's sake, is not merely a human experience but a participation in the sufferings of Christ ([Philippians 3:10](/philippians/3-10 "Philippians 3:10 - Knowing Christ and the Fellowship of His Sufferings")), a filling up of "that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ" ([Colossians 1:24](/colossians/1-24 "Colossians 1:24 - Paul's Suffering for the Church")). Christ's ultimate act of self-giving on the cross enables this profound spiritual unity, where believers are not only redeemed but also empowered to live lives of sacrificial love and endure hardship for the sake of His name, knowing that their ultimate freedom and victory are found in Him ([John 8:36](/john/8-36 "John 8:36 - The Son Shall Make You Free")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Colossians 1:7

As ye also learned of Epaphras our dear fellowservant, who is for you a faithful minister of Christ;

Romans 16:7

Salute Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen, and my fellowprisoners, who are of note among the apostles, who also were in Christ before me.

Colossians 4:12

Epaphras, who is [one] of you, a servant of Christ, saluteth you, always labouring fervently for you in prayers, that ye may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God.

Colossians 4:10

Aristarchus my fellowprisoner saluteth you, and Marcus, sister's son to Barnabas, (touching whom ye received commandments: if he come unto you, receive him;)