Antipas is a biblical figure mentioned in the New Testament, specifically in the Book of Revelation. He is recognized as a faithful martyr of the early Christian church. The name "Antipas" is believed to be a shortened form of "Antipater," a common name in the Hellenistic world, which means "like the father" or "in place of the father."

Biblical Reference:

Antipas is mentioned in Revelation 2:13, where Jesus addresses the church in Pergamum through the Apostle John. The verse reads: "I know where you live, where the throne of Satan sits. Yet you have held fast to My name and have not denied your faith in Me, even in the days when My faithful witness Antipas was killed among you, where Satan dwells" .

Historical and Cultural Context:

Pergamum, where Antipas was martyred, was a significant city in the Roman province of Asia, known for its cultural and religious diversity. It was a center of pagan worship, housing temples dedicated to various deities, including Zeus and Asclepius. The reference to "where the throne of Satan sits" is often interpreted as an allusion to the city's prominent pagan practices and possibly the altar of Zeus, which was a notable structure in Pergamum.

Antipas is described as a "faithful witness," a term that underscores his steadfastness in the face of persecution. The Greek word for "witness" is "martys," which later came to be associated with those who suffered death for their Christian faith, thus giving rise to the term "martyr."

Tradition and Legacy:

While the biblical text provides limited information about Antipas, early Christian tradition holds that he was a bishop or leader in the church at Pergamum. According to some accounts, Antipas was martyred during the reign of Emperor Domitian, who ruled from AD 81 to 96, a period marked by increased persecution of Christians.

Tradition suggests that Antipas was executed by being burned alive in a brazen bull, a method of torture and execution used in ancient times. This account, while not found in the biblical text, reflects the severe trials faced by early Christians who refused to renounce their faith.

Antipas is venerated as a saint in various Christian traditions, and his feast day is celebrated on April 11 in the Eastern Orthodox Church. His unwavering commitment to Christ serves as an enduring example of faithfulness and courage for believers throughout the ages.

Theological Significance:

Antipas's mention in the Book of Revelation highlights the theme of perseverance amidst persecution, a recurring motif in the text. His example is a testament to the call for Christians to remain faithful to Christ, even unto death. The acknowledgment of Antipas as a "faithful witness" aligns with the broader biblical narrative that honors those who endure suffering for the sake of the Gospel.

In the context of Revelation, Antipas's martyrdom serves as both a warning and an encouragement to the church in Pergamum and to all believers. It underscores the reality of spiritual warfare and the presence of evil, symbolized by "the throne of Satan," while also affirming the ultimate victory and reward for those who remain steadfast in their faith.An'tipas (1 Occurrence)

Revelation 2:13
Satan's throne is there; and yet you are true to Me, and did not deny your faith in Me, even in the days of Antipas My witness and faithful friend, who was put to death among you, in the place where Satan dwells.
(See RSV)

An'tipas (1 Occurrence)
An'tipas. Antipas, An'tipas. Antipater . Multi-Version Concordance
An'tipas (1 Occurrence). Revelation 2:13 Satan's throne is there ...
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Antipas (1 Occurrence)

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Antipater

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