Lexical Summary Chloé a prim. word: Chloe Original Word: Χλόη Strong's Exhaustive Concordance Chloe. Feminine of apparently a primary word; "green"; Chloe, a Christian female -- Chloe. NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originyoung foliage (Verdant, epithet of the pagan goddess Demeter), Chloe, a Chr. woman NASB Translation Chloe's (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 5514: ΧλόηΧλόη ((i. e. 'tender verdure'; an appellation of Demeter, 'the Verdant')), Χλόης, ἡ, Chloe, a Christian woman of Corinth: 1 Corinthians 1:11. (Cf. B. D., under the word.) Topical Lexicon Name and Meaning Chloe is a Greek feminine name signifying “fresh greenery” or “new growth,” an image of life and renewal that often accompanies agricultural metaphors in Scripture (for example, Matthew 13:1–23; John 12:24). In classical usage the term could serve as an epithet of the goddess Demeter, but in the New Testament it identifies a Christian woman whose household played a crucial role in the Corinthian correspondence. Biblical Occurrence and Immediate Context Only once is Chloe mentioned, in 1 Corinthians 1:11: “My brothers, some from Chloe’s household have informed me that there are quarrels among you.” (Berean Standard Bible) Paul writes from Ephesus to address factionalism undermining the Corinthian assembly (1 Corinthians 1:10–17). Members of Chloe’s household—whether family, slaves, freedmen, or business agents—journeyed to Paul and reported the tensions, prompting his pastoral response. Historical Background Corinth was a prosperous commercial hub, drawing people of diverse cultures, trades, and social standings. Households often included extended kin, servants, and employees tied to a patron’s economic ventures. Chloe appears to have been a woman of means whose household members traveled between Corinth and Ephesus, suggesting a merchant network or property interests in both cities. In such a setting, her household functioned as a natural information conduit to the apostle. Role in the Ministry of Paul 1. Catalyst for Correction The report from Chloe’s people occasioned one of Paul’s most foundational teachings on Christian unity: “Is Christ divided?” (1 Corinthians 1:13). By bringing the matter to light, the household enabled Paul to address divisions over leadership (verses 12–17), worldly wisdom (chapters 1–2), and carnality (chapter 3). 2. Model of Responsible Disclosure Paul neither rebukes nor silences Chloe’s informants; instead, he names the source publicly. This transparency validates truth-telling within the body of Christ and discourages anonymous accusations (compare Matthew 18:15–17). Their willingness to speak reflects spiritual maturity: they preferred the purity of the church over personal comfort. 3. Affirmation of Women’s Influence Although peripheral to the narrative, Chloe joins Lydia (Acts 16:14–15), Priscilla (Acts 18:26; Romans 16:3), Phoebe (Romans 16:1–2), and Nympha (Colossians 4:15) as evidence that women exercised substantial influence in the early church—hosting gatherings, underwriting travel, and facilitating apostolic correspondence. Theological and Pastoral Themes • Unity in Christ: Chloe’s contribution underscores that division is incompatible with the gospel. Paul’s appeal, arising from her report, remains a standard for congregational harmony (John 17:20–23; Ephesians 4:1–6). Later Influence and Reception Early Christian writers do not expand upon Chloe, yet her brief appearance has inspired reflection in sermons and commentaries on: – The moral courage required to confront disunity. – The constructive role of lay members in safeguarding doctrinal purity. – The complementarity of male and female service in apostolic work. Practical Applications for Today 1. Encourage open, respectful communication when conflicts threaten church fellowship. Key Cross-References Acts 18:1–11 – Founding of the Corinthian church Romans 12:3–5 – Many members, one body Ephesians 4:1–6 – Preserve the unity of the Spirit Philippians 4:2–3 – Peacemaking among co-laborers Hebrews 10:24–25 – Spur one another toward love and good deeds Summary Though mentioned only once, Chloe stands as a testament to the profound influence that faithful believers—regardless of title or prominence—can exercise in maintaining the health and unity of Christ’s church. Forms and Transliterations χλοή χλόη χλόην Χλοης Χλόης χλωρίζουσα χλωριζόυσας Chloes Chloēs Chlóes ChlóēsLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts |
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