2 Timothy 1:17-18

Onesiphorus certainly helped out Paul. He was not ashamed of Paul or the fact that Paul was in prison. Not only was he not ashamed of Paul, but he earnestly searched for Paul when he arrived in Rome. He wasn't avoiding what others were ashamed of, but he was going after that which made others ashamed. He helped Paul and was one who has shown grace and mercy. Paul earlier asked for mercy for the house of Onesiphorus, and he now asks for mercy for Onesiphorus. In particular, mercy is asked for with regards to "that day". Paul appeals to the Lord to grant mercy to the one who has shown mercy. I was directed towards Matthew 18, where Jesus tells a story about an unmerciful servant. The servant is shown mercy. However, when he is given a chance, he does not show mercy to others. In the end he is punished. I am also reminded of James where James talks about judgment and mercy. If you have not shown mercy, you will receive judgment without mercy.