King James Version

What Does Philemon 1:24 Mean?

Philemon 1:24 in the King James Version says “Marcus, Aristarchus, Demas, Lucas, my fellowlabourers.” — study this verse from Philemon chapter 1 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“Marcus, Aristarchus, Demas, Lucas, my fellowlabourers.”

Philemon 1:24 · KJV

Context

22

But withal prepare me also a lodging: for I trust that through your prayers I shall be given unto you.

23

There salute thee Epaphras, my fellowprisoner in Christ Jesus;

24

Marcus, Aristarchus, Demas, Lucas, my fellowlabourers.

25

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen. Written from Rome to Philemon, by Onesimus a servant.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Marcus, Aristarchus, Demas, Lucas, my fellowlabourers—Μᾶρκος (Markos, Mark/John Mark, Barnabas's cousin and Gospel author), Ἀρίσταρχος (Aristarchos, Aristarchus, Thessalonian who accompanied Paul, Acts 19:29, 20:4, 27:2), Δημᾶς (Demas, Demas who later deserted Paul, 2 Timothy 4:10), Λουκᾶς (Loukas, Luke the physician and historian). οἱ συνεργοί μου (hoi synergoi mou, my co-workers)—συνεργός (synergos, fellow worker/co-laborer) emphasizes shared ministry.

The list poignantly includes Demas, later called a deserter (2 Timothy 4:10: "Demas has forsaken me, having loved this present world"). At Philemon's writing, Demas remained faithful; future apostasy demonstrates perseverance isn't guaranteed. Mark's inclusion also significant—he'd earlier deserted Paul (Acts 15:37-39), causing Paul-Barnabas split. By Philemon's writing, Mark is restored, "profitable for ministry" (2 Timothy 4:11). This parallels Onesimus's trajectory: from useless deserter to useful minister.

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Historical & Cultural Context

These men represent Paul's missionary team during imprisonment. Luke ("beloved physician," Colossians 4:14) authored Luke-Acts. Mark wrote the Second Gospel. Aristarchus faced mob violence in Ephesus (Acts 19:29) and shipwreck en route to Rome (Acts 27:2). Their presence during Paul's bonds provided comfort, assistance, and witness. The mixed outcomes (Mark restored, Demas apostatized) remind that present faithfulness doesn't guarantee future perseverance—only God's grace sustains.

Reflection Questions

  1. Who are your "fellow workers" in gospel ministry, and how do you acknowledge and encourage them?
  2. How do you respond when co-workers desert or fail—with permanent rejection or hopeful restoration like Paul toward Mark?
  3. What can Demas's apostasy teach about the dangers of "loving this present world" even while serving faithfully?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 7 words
Μάρκος,1 of 7

“Marcus”

G3138

marcus, a christian

Ἀρίσταρχος2 of 7

“Aristarchus”

G708

best ruling; aristarchus, a macedonian

Δημᾶς3 of 7

“Demas”

G1214

demas, a christian

Λουκᾶς4 of 7

“Lucas”

G3065

lucas, a christian

οἱ5 of 7
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

συνεργοί6 of 7

“fellowlabourers”

G4904

a co-laborer, i.e., coadjutor

μου7 of 7

“my”

G3450

of me

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Philemon. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Philemon 1:24 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Philemon 1:24 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Colossians 4:14Colossians 4:102 Timothy 4:10-11Acts 15:37-39Acts 19:29Acts 12:12

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