Epaphras is mentioned 3 times in the New Testament, in 2 epistles of the Apostle Paul; Colossians and Philemon.
Paul was in prison when he penned these Epistles and in Philemon he calls Epaphras “my fellow prisoner”. Did he mean Epaphras was in prison with him? Probably not. For he states “in Christ”. Paul considered himself to be a prisoner, a bond servant of Christ. It also appears Epaphras was “a minister to the Colossians”, he probably was the founder of the Colossian Church. It would also appear Philemon abode in Colossae.
Colossians 1:7-8 As ye also learned of Epaphras our dear fellowservant, who is for you a faithful minister of Christ; Who also declared unto us your love in the Spirit.
Colossians 4:12-13 Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ, saluteth you, always labouring fervently for you in prayers, that ye may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God. For I bear him record, that he hath a great zeal for you, and them that are in Laodicea, and them in Hierapolis.
Philemon 1:23 There salute thee Epaphras, my fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus;
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