and so do Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke, my fellow workers.
English Standard Version (ESV)
While listing his loyal companions, Paul subtly places Demas last among the "fellow workers," a detail that gains poignant significance in light of Demas' later desertion of Paul. This juxtaposition highlights how even those who stood close in faith could eventually falter, serving as a somber reminder to guard our own hearts and persevere in faithfulness.
and so do Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke, my fellow workers.
English Standard Version (ESV)
In the closing verses of his letter, Paul wraps up his personal appeal to Philemon regarding the runaway slave Onesimus. He mentions that several of his companions, including Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke, are sending their greetings and are also working alongside him. These were men familiar to Philemon, reinforcing the personal nature of Paul's request and emphasizing the community of believers supporting this endeavor.
Paul's letters often mention friends who supported his ministry. Who were these people, and what does their presence tell us about Paul's mission?
In Philemon 1:24, Paul lists several close companions: Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke. These individuals weren't just acquaintances; they were 'fellow workers,' a term Paul frequently used for those actively involved in spreading the gospel alongside him.
Shared Labor
Their inclusion at the end of this personal letter to Philemon highlights that the work of ministry was a shared effort, not a solo performance by Paul. These were people who invested their lives in the same cause, offering support, encouragement, and practical help.
Among the names of faithful friends, one stands out for a different reason. What can we learn from Demas's story?
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Demas is listed here as a 'fellow worker,' alongside Mark, Aristarchus, and Luke, all seemingly in good standing with Paul at this time. However, in his later letter to Timothy, Paul makes a somber observation: 'Demas, in love with this present world, has deserted me and gone to Thessalonica' (2 Timothy 4:10).
A Stark Contrast
This shift in Demas's allegiance serves as a profound caution. It reminds us that loyalty to Christ and His mission isn't a one-time decision but a continuous commitment. Even those who walk closely with God's people can be swayed by worldly desires. Yet, his inclusion here before his departure also offers a glimmer of hope. It shows that even those who stumble can, and do, serve faithfully at other times. It’s a call to perseverance and a reminder that we all need to guard our hearts against the siren call of the world.
Understand the original words
synergos · Greek Noun
One who labors or works alongside others in the kingdom of God. It signifies partnership, shared purpose, and equality in service to the Lord.
This verse places us directly in Paul's Roman house arrest, surrounded by his loyal companions. It highlights the intense period of ministry and letter-writing that Paul engaged in, even under confinement, emphasizing the personal nature of his work and relationships.
c. AD 60-62— this verse
Paul Imprisoned in Rome
The Apostle Paul is under house arrest in Rome, awaiting trial. During this time, he is able to receive visitors and continue his ministry, writing several letters, including the Epistle to Philemon.
c. AD 60-62
Onesimus Flees to Rome
Onesimus, a slave belonging to Philemon, flees from his master and travels to Rome. While in the city, he encounters the Apostle Paul.
c. AD 60-62
Paul Interacts with Onesimus
Paul leads Onesimus to faith in Christ during his imprisonment. He then writes this personal letter to Philemon, urging him to forgive and receive Onesimus back, now as a brother in Christ.
c. AD 60-62
Colossian Church Flourishing
The church in Colossae, founded by or closely associated with Epaphras, is active and influential. Paul's letter to Philemon is likely delivered by Onesimus and intended for a community that knows both Philemon and his slave.
c. AD 60-62
Paul's Companions in Rome
Several of Paul's close associates, including Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke, are with him in Rome during his imprisonment, offering support and collaborating in ministry.
c. AD 67
Demas Forsakes Paul
Later, the Apostle Paul laments that Demas, who is mentioned as a 'fellow worker' in Philemon, has deserted him, having 'fallen in love with this present world'.
This passage lists Aristarchus and Mark as fellow workers with Paul, reinforcing their identity and connection to Paul's ministry alongside Luke.
Colossians 4:14This verse mentions Luke as a 'doctor together with' Paul, and also names Demas, highlighting their known association with Paul's work and travel.
2 Timothy 4:10This passage provides a stark contrast to Demas's presence here, noting that he has deserted Paul due to his love for the present world, adding a layer of complexity to his inclusion in this list.
Acts 19:29This verse mentions Aristarchus as being with Paul in Ephesus, showing his active participation in Paul's missionary journeys and ministry.
Acts 20:4This verse again lists Aristarchus as a companion of Paul, this time on a journey to Asia, demonstrating his ongoing commitment and involvement in carrying out Paul's mission.
vincentPhilemon 1:24: "Marcus, Aristarchus, Demas, Lucas, my fellowlabourers."
MarkProbably John Mark the evangelist. He appears as the companion of Paul, Acts 12:25; Colossians 4:10; 2 Timothy 4:11.AristarchusA Thessalonian. Alluded to Acts 19:29; Acts 20:4; Acts 27:2. He was Paul's companion for a part of the way on the journey to Rome.DemasSee Colossians 4:14; 2 Timothy 4:10.LukeThe physician and evangelist. See Introduction to Luke's Gospel.
calvinPhilemon 1:20-25: "Yea, brother, let me have joy of thee in the Lord: refresh my bowels in the Lord."
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.
Gratia Domini nostri Iesu Christi cum spiritu vestro. Amen.
Written from Rome to Philemon by Onesimus a servant.
Ad Philemonem missa fuit e Roma per Onesimum servum.
20 Yea, brother. This affirmation is used in order to increase the ardor of the exhortation; as if he had said -- "Now shall it be clearly proved that there…
While listing his loyal companions, Paul subtly places Demas last among the "fellow workers," a detail that gains poignant significance in light of Demas' later desertion of Paul. This juxtaposition highlights how even those who stood close in faith could eventually falter, serving as a somber reminder to guard our own hearts and persevere in faithfulness.
In the closing verses of his letter, Paul wraps up his personal appeal to Philemon regarding the runaway slave Onesimus. He mentions that several of his companions, including Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke, are sending their greetings and are also working alongside him. These were men familiar to Philemon, reinforcing the personal nature of Paul's request and emphasizing the community of believers supporting this endeavor.
In the closing verses of his letter, Paul wraps up his personal appeal to Philemon regarding the runaway slave Onesimus. He mentions that several of his companions, including Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke, are sending their greetings and are also working alongside him. These were men familiar to Philemon, reinforcing the personal nature of Paul's request and emphasizing the community of believers supporting this endeavor.
"and so do Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke, my fellow workers." — While listing his loyal companions, Paul subtly places Demas last among the "fellow workers," a detail that gains poignant significance in light of Demas' later desertion of Paul. This juxtaposition…
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Last reviewed October 2026