2 Timothy 1:16
The Lord give mercy unto the house of Onesiphorus; for he oft refreshed me, and was not ashamed of my chain:
2 Timothy 1:16
Paul prays for mercy on Onesiphorus’s household, praising Onesiphorus for refreshing Paul “often” and for not being ashamed of Paul’s chains. This underscores a few themes: the personal cost of gospel ministry, the hospitality and support networks that sustained early believers, and the courage to stand with imprisoned leaders. Onesiphorus had sought Paul in Rome, contrasting with those who avoided the condemnation of association with a jailed apostle. Paul’s gratitude points to the importance of tangible acts of mercy—visiting, supporting, encouraging—especially during times of trial. The "house of Onesiphorus" suggests a family that embodies hospitality and faithfulness, reinforcing the community dimension of Christian witness in a hostile environment.
Mercy from the Lord is not merely individual salvation but relational and communal blessing. The verse highlights the church as a family network sustained by love and loyalty, particularly in hardship. It also affirms the value of courage to identify with suffering believers. Theologically, it expands the scope of grace to include practical, concrete acts that strengthen faith and fortify ministry.
Think of contemporary Christians who regularly host, visit, or support pastors or missionaries in difficult situations. Practically: open your home to someone in need, visit the imprisoned or marginalized, and publicly acknowledge those who endure for the sake of Christ. This verse invites us to be the Onesiphorus family—faithful, visible, unashamed of gospel allegiance in a world that often shuns discomfort.
Cross-References: Hebrews 13:2; 1 Corinthians 16:18; Romans 12:13; 3 John 1:5-8; Matthew 25:35-36