The answer is: Onesimus

v10 - the name means useful

In the delightful letter to Philemon, the name Onesimus screams irony since it translates to "useful." You might think, “How could a runaway slave be described as such?” But there's a marvelous twist here! In this situation, Paul refers to Onesimus not just as a person but as a meaningful part of his mission. Not only did Onesimus find physical freedom, but he also embraced a spiritual transformation that made him immensely valuable to Paul's ministry.

Interestingly, the backstory adds layers to our understanding. Onesimus was not just a name he had; he was a runaway slave who had previously belonged to Philemon. Paul emphasized Onesimus’ newfound status as a brother in the faith over any societal labels. This break from tradition was revolutionary for early Christians. Math this with the practice of using names meaning something profound – many in ancient cultures believed a name could reflect one’s destiny or character. So, when Paul desired Philemon to welcome Onesimus back as “more than a slave,” he was still nudging Philemon toward significant changes in heart and mind.

Plus, if you dig deeper into the namesantiago dynamics of the time, you'll see a similar emphasis placed on liberty. Ultimately, Paul's message resounded: Everyone, regardless of past mistakes or societal standing, can become truly useful born through unity and reconciliation. He'd hitched this runaway slave and a wealthy master to teach us something about community, which continues to resonate powerfully today.