There salute thee Epaphras, my fellowprisoner in Christ Jesus;

PHILEMON 1:23KJV
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Philemon 1:23 (KJV)

What does Philemon 1:23 mean?

Philemon 1:23 means that Epaphras, who is in prison with Paul because of their faith in Christ Jesus, is sending his greetings to Philemon. Paul is letting Philemon know that Epaphras, a fellow believer and co-prisoner, also remembers him and wishes him well.

Paul is writing this letter to Philemon, a Christian in Colossae, while Paul himself is imprisoned. Epaphras is mentioned here as a "fellowprisoner," showing that he is sharing in Paul's hardships for the sake of Jesus Christ. This greeting highlights the close bonds among early Christian leaders, even when separated by imprisonment, and shows that Philemon is remembered and valued by others in their circle.

Where else these words appear

“Epaphras” Greek G1889 · used in 3 verses

  • Colossians 1:7 As ye also learned of Epaphras our dear fellowservant, who is for you a faithful minister of Christ;
  • 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.

“fellowprisoner” Greek G4869 · used in 3 verses

  • 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 4:10 Aristarchus my fellowprisoner saluteth you, and Marcus, sister's son to Barnabas,(touching whom ye received commandments: if he come unto you, receive him;)

“salute” Greek G782 · used in 49 verses

  • Matthew 5:47 And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so?
  • Romans 16:8 Greet Amplias my beloved in the Lord.
  • Philippians 4:21 Salute every saint in Christ Jesus. The brethren which are with me greet you.