Lexical Summary Phugelos: Fugitive, deserter Original Word: φυγέλος Strong's Exhaustive Concordance PhygelusProbably from pheugo; fugitive; Phygellus, an apostate Christian -- Phygellus. see GREEK pheugo NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originprobably of foreign origin Definition Phygelus, one who deserted Paul NASB Translation Phygelus (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 5436: ΦύγελλοςΦύγελλος and (L T Tr WH (see WH's Appendix, p. 159)) Φύγελος, Φυγελλου, ὁ, Phygellus (better Phyg'-elus), a Christian, who was with Paul at Rome and deserted him (see B. D. under the word and the commentaries): 2 Timothy 1:15. Topical Lexicon Identity and Scriptural Setting Phygelus is named once in the New Testament, in 2 Timothy 1:15. Paul writes, “You know that everyone in the Province of Asia has deserted me, including Phygelus and Hermogenes”. The reference appears in Paul’s final letter, penned during his second Roman imprisonment shortly before his martyrdom. Timothy is in Ephesus (2 Timothy 1:18; 2 Timothy 4:19), so the “Province of Asia” points primarily to western Asia Minor, with Ephesus as its chief city. Historical Background Paul had ministered extensively in Asia (Acts 19; Acts 20:17–38), building deep relationships with elders and believers. Yet Nero’s persecution (circa AD 64–68) created a climate of fear. Associating with a condemned apostle could bring loss of livelihood, imprisonment, or death. Within this crucible, Phygelus is remembered not for active opposition, but for turning away when steadfastness counted most. Contrast with Faithful Companions The immediate literary context contrasts Phygelus with Onesiphorus, who “often refreshed me and was not ashamed of my chains” (2 Timothy 1:16-17). Further into the letter, Paul names Demas, who “loved this world” and deserted him (2 Timothy 4:10). Together these individuals illustrate Paul’s repeated warning: “All who want to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” (2 Timothy 3:12), and not all will persevere. Ministry Significance 1. Loyalty to gospel workers. Phygelus’s failure underscores the biblical call to support suffering servants (Hebrews 13:3; 3 John 8). Theological Themes • Apostolic suffering as normative for the Church (Philippians 1:29). Practical Applications for Today • Uphold persecuted believers globally; silence or distance in times of their trial repeats the error of Phygelus. Post-New Testament Tradition Early Christian literature is silent on Phygelus. His cameo serves Scripture’s didactic purpose: one recorded act can stand as lasting caution. Related Topics Desertion (Mark 14:50), Fear of Man (Proverbs 29:25), Perseverance (Hebrews 10:32-39), Supporting the Imprisoned (Matthew 25:36). Forms and Transliterations Φυγελος Φύγελος Phugelos Phygelos PhýgelosLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts |
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