Aristar'chus, a Macedonian of Thessalonica, is a notable figure in the New Testament, recognized for his close association with the Apostle Paul. His name, meaning "best ruler" or "best prince," reflects a noble character, which is evident in his steadfast support and companionship to Paul during his missionary journeys and imprisonments.

Biblical References:

1. Acts 19:29 · Aristar'chus first appears in the narrative of the Book of Acts during the tumultuous events in Ephesus. "Soon the whole city was in an uproar. They seized Gaius and Aristar'chus, Paul's traveling companions from Macedonia, and rushed as one man into the theater." This incident highlights Aristar'chus's role as a dedicated companion of Paul, willing to face danger and persecution alongside him.

2. Acts 20:4 · Aristar'chus is mentioned as one of Paul's companions on his journey through Macedonia and Greece. "He was accompanied by Sopater son of Pyrrhus from Berea, Aristarchus and Secundus from Thessalonica, Gaius from Derbe, Timothy, and Tychicus and Trophimus from the province of Asia." This passage underscores his continued commitment to the mission of spreading the Gospel.

3. Acts 27:2 · Aristar'chus is noted as being with Paul on his voyage to Rome. "We boarded an Adramyttian ship about to sail for ports along the coast of Asia, and we put out to sea. Aristarchus, a Macedonian from Thessalonica, was with us." His presence on this perilous journey further illustrates his loyalty and courage.

4. Colossians 4:10 · In Paul's letter to the Colossians, Aristar'chus is referred to as a fellow prisoner. "My fellow prisoner Aristarchus sends you greetings, as does Mark, the cousin of Barnabas. (You have received instructions about him; if he comes to you, welcome him.)" This indicates that Aristar'chus shared in Paul's sufferings for the sake of the Gospel, enduring imprisonment for his faith.

5. Philemon 1:24 · Aristar'chus is listed among Paul's fellow workers. "And so do Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke, my fellow workers." This acknowledgment by Paul highlights Aristar'chus's significant role in the early Christian community and his contributions to the ministry.

Role and Significance:

Aristar'chus's consistent presence alongside Paul during critical moments of his ministry demonstrates his unwavering dedication to the cause of Christ. His willingness to endure hardship and imprisonment reflects a deep commitment to the Gospel and a profound loyalty to Paul as a spiritual leader. Aristar'chus serves as an example of steadfast faith and courage, embodying the qualities of a true disciple and co-laborer in the early Church.

Historical and Theological Context:

As a Macedonian from Thessalonica, Aristar'chus represents the spread of Christianity beyond Jewish communities into the Gentile world. His involvement in Paul's missions underscores the inclusive nature of the Gospel message and the diverse makeup of the early Church. Theologically, Aristar'chus's life and actions exemplify the call to discipleship, characterized by sacrifice, service, and solidarity with fellow believers in the face of adversity.Aristar'chus (6 Occurrences)

Acts 19:29
and the whole city was filled with confusion, they rushed also with one accord into the theatre, having caught Gaius and Aristarchus, Macedonians, Paul's fellow-travellers.
(See RSV)

Acts 20:4
And there were accompanying him unto Asia, Sopater of Berea, and of Thessalonians Aristarchus and Secundus, and Gaius of Derbe, and Timotheus, and of Asiatics Tychicus and Trophimus;
(See RSV)

Acts 27:2
and having embarked in a ship of Adramyttium, we, being about to sail by the coasts of Asia, did set sail, there being with us Aristarchus, a Macedonian of Thessalonica,
(See RSV)

Acts 27:2
and having embarked in a ship of Adramyttium, we, being about to sail by the coasts of Asia, did set sail, there being with us Aristarchus, a Macedonian of Thessalonica,
(See RSV)

Colossians 4:10
Salute you doth Aristarchus, my fellow-captive, and Marcus, the nephew of Barnabas, (concerning whom ye did receive commands -- if he may come unto you receive him,)
(See RSV)

Philemon 1:24
Markus, Aristarchus, Demas, Lukas, my fellow-workmen!
(See RSV)

Aristar'chus (6 Occurrences)
Aristar'chus. Aristarchus, Aristar'chus. Aristobulus . Multi-Version
Concordance Aristar'chus (6 Occurrences). Acts 19:29 and the ...
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Aristarchus (6 Occurrences)

/a/aristarchus.htm - 10k

Aristobulus (1 Occurrence)

/a/aristobulus.htm - 9k

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