The answer is: Onesimus

v10 - the name means useful

In the book of Philemon, we meet Onesimus, a runaway slave whose name cleverly means "useful" in Greek. It's quite a coincidence or, dare we say, divine irony, considering he was not living up to that name initially! This letter, penned by Paul, turns the common understanding of value and usefulness upside down. Onesimus eventually becomes useful not just to Philemon but to Paul and the entire church.

Want to know something fascinating? The triple references to helpfulness and the potential of Onesimus echo coping lessons then - and they're still relevant today! Paul writes that Onesimus, now a believer, is more than just a servant; he is like a brother in faith. Here, boundless generosity and brotherhood are emphasized over rigid social norms. It’s an early glimpse of inclusive community that transcends class and status.

The letter invites everyone to reconsider relationships in light of love, breaking significant walls. This wasn't just about a runaway; it was a challenge to societal dynamics prevalent in the Roman Empire. In a society where loyalty to masters was pivotal, Paul instead suggests collaboration over ownership. This isn’t merely a story of reclaiming a runaway slave - it's about reclaiming dignity and recognizing the worth each person carries. So next time you come across the term "slaves" in the Scriptures, remember Onesimus and ponder the layers of humanity behind mere titles, highlighting the transformative power of faith and relationships.