Colossians 4:9
With Onesimus, a faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They shall make known unto you all things which are done here.
Original Language Analysis
σὺν
With
G4862
σὺν
With
Strong's:
G4862
Word #:
1 of 16
with or together (but much closer than g3326 or g3844), i.e., by association, companionship, process, resemblance, possession, instrumentality, additi
τὰ
which
G3588
τὰ
which
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 16
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
5 of 16
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ἀδελφῷ
brother
G80
ἀδελφῷ
brother
Strong's:
G80
Word #:
7 of 16
a brother (literally or figuratively) near or remote (much like g0001)
ὅς
who
G3739
ὅς
who
Strong's:
G3739
Word #:
8 of 16
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
ἐξ
one of
G1537
ἐξ
one of
Strong's:
G1537
Word #:
10 of 16
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
γνωριοῦσιν
They shall make known
G1107
γνωριοῦσιν
They shall make known
Strong's:
G1107
Word #:
14 of 16
to make known; subjectively, to know
Historical Context
Runaway slaves faced severe punishment, even death, if captured. Onesimus's voluntary return demonstrated genuine conversion and trust in gospel transformation. Paul's letter to Philemon urged receiving Onesimus as brother, not slave (Philemon 16). This radical application of gospel principles challenged slavery's foundations, demonstrating Christianity's transforming social impact even before directly attacking institutions.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you receive transformed sinners—with suspicion about past or celebration of grace?
- What past failures or sins define how you see people versus their new identity in Christ?
- How does Onesimus's story illustrate gospel power to transform relationships and break social barriers?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
With Onesimus, a faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They shall make known unto you all things which are done here. Paul introduces Onesimus, traveling with Tychicus. Onesimus was Philemon's runaway slave (Philemon 10-16), converted under Paul's ministry, now returning to Colossae. Paul's description—"faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you"—emphasizes Onesimus's Christian identity and Colossian origin, preparing the church to receive him as brother, not merely slave.
"They shall make known unto you all things which are done here" (panta hymin gnōrisousin ta hōde, πάντα ὑμῖν γνωρίσουσιν τὰ ὧδε) indicates both Tychicus and Onesimus would update Colossae on Paul's situation. Including Onesimus in this ministry validated his transformation and Christian service. Paul's commendation would facilitate his reception despite his past offense as runaway slave.