Onesimus (sources)
Survey of ancient sources on Onesimus.
Overview
Christian sources
Letter of Paul to Philemon
Philemon 1:10 -- [10] I am appealing to you for my child, Onesimus, whose father I have become during my imprisonment. [11] Formerly he was useless to you, but now he is indeed useful both to you and to me. [12] I am sending him, that is, my own heart, back to you. [13] I wanted to keep him with me, so that he might be of service to me in your place during my imprisonment for the gospel; [14] but I preferred to do nothing without your consent, in order that your good deed might be voluntary and not something forced. [15] Perhaps this is the reason he was separated from you for a while, so that you might have him back forever, [16] no longer as a slave but more than a slave, a beloved brother--especially to me but how much more to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord. [17] So if you consider me your partner, welcome him as you would welcome me. [18] If he has wronged you in any way, or owes you anything, charge that to my account...
Letter of Paul to the Colossians
Col 4:9 -- Tychicus will tell you all the news about me... [10] he is coming with Onesimus, the faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They will tell you about everything here.