2 Timothy 1:16

Onesiphorus. Literally, “one who brings profit.” Nothing further is known concerning this faithful believer. Apparently he was true to the meaning of his name in that he brought much joy and encouragement to Paul at a time when other church members were failing him. Onesiphorus was not ashamed of the gospel or of the disgrace it brought to Paul. Some believe that he was then dead, (1) because Paul refers only to his “house” here and to his “household” in ch. 4:19; (2) because the wording in ch. 1:18, “in that day,” when understood in terms of v. 12 and ch. 4:8, constitutes a reference to the second advent.

Refreshed. Onesiphorus was like a breath of mountain air to Paul breathing the miasma of his Roman prison. Instead of commiserating with Paul, he brought courage, buoyancy, and fellowship.

Not ashamed. In contrast with Phygellus and Hermogenes, and a worthy model for Timothy (cf. v. 8).

Chain. See on Acts 28:20.