Onesiphorus is one of the most obscure figures in the New Testament. We read of him and his household in 2 Timothy 1:16-18 and 2 Timothy 4:19. Although little is known about his life, the few verses in which Paul mentions him speak volumes about his character. He was a man who stood firmly by Paul during the lowest point of his imprisonment—a loyal friend who embraced massive personal risk for the sake of friendship.

While Paul languished in prison awaiting execution, most of his friends and colleagues abandoned him (2 Timothy 1:15). In contrast, Onesiphorus—whose very name means “one who brings profit or benefit”—was not ashamed of Paul’s chains. He chose to associate himself with a condemned prisoner, fully aware that doing so could provoke the wrath of the Roman authorities.

Furthermore, Onesiphorus diligently searched the huge and overcrowded city of Rome until he located Paul. Because the Romans did not publicize their prisons, it took relentless determination for Onesiphorus to find the exact cell where Paul was held. Once there, he visited and refreshed Paul, most likely with words of encouragement, practical supplies, and the deep companionship Paul so desperately needed. It is no wonder Paul calls him a “refresher.”

We all need people like Onesiphorus in our lives, especially those in leadership. Therefore, we should pray that the Lord brings such loyal, available, and refreshing individuals into our lives. At the same time, we must also seek the grace to become an Onesiphorus to those around us. Ultimately, that is exactly who Christ is—the true and greater Onesiphorus, who promises to be with us and never forsake us until the end of the age.