What does Philemon 1:23 mean?

This verse begins the conclusion of Philemon, running through verse 25. Paul includes a greeting from Epaphras, described as Paul's "fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus." Like Paul, Epaphras was jailed for his faith. He was also mentioned twice in Colossians. Colossians 1:7 describes Epaphras as a faithful missionary who brought the gospel to Philemon and others in his city. He brought news about the church in Colossae to Paul. Colossians 4:12 suggests that Epaphras was from Colossae, as well. He was known for his faithful prayers for his fellow Colossian believers.

We are not told in the Bible how or why Epaphras was arrested. However, he would have been in Rome either to share the gospel and/or to assist Paul. Presumably, at some point he was arrested for his Christian activities. Paul commended this work, clearly acknowledging that Epaphras' imprisonment was due to his missionary efforts.