The story of Onesimus is found in letter the apostle Paul wrote to Philemon while imprisoned with Onesimus.

Onesimus was a runaway slave of Philemon’s, and through the relationship he had with Paul, Onesimus became a follower of Christ.  Paul wrote the letter to Philemon appealing to let Onesimus come back.  Under Roman law, Onesimus had no rights while Philemon had every right to execute him on the spot. 

Through personal discipleship with Paul, Onesimus found his usefulness through Christ and was ready to go back to the world he had run away from and face his responsibilities, choices, and actions. 

In one of the most profound statements of transformation by Christ, Paul writes “I appeal to you for my child Onesimus…who formerly was useless to you, but now is useful both to you and to me. I have sent him back to you in person, that is, sending my very heart…”

The story of Onesimus is one that resonates deeply within each of us. A man who had runaway from life had found purpose through Christ, and this relationship with Christ gave him the strength, courage, and willingness to face life.