Epenetus is a biblical figure mentioned in the New Testament, specifically in the Apostle Paul's Epistle to the Romans. His name appears in Romans 16:5, where Paul sends greetings to various members of the early Christian community in Rome. The verse reads: "Greet my beloved Epenetus, who was the first convert to Christ in the province of Asia" (Berean Standard Bible).

Historical Context

Epenetus is noted for being the "first convert to Christ in the province of Asia," which highlights his significance in the early spread of Christianity. The term "Asia" in this context refers to the Roman province of Asia, located in what is now western Turkey. This region was a focal point for early Christian missionary activity, and Epenetus's conversion marks a pivotal moment in the establishment of the Christian faith in this area.

Role in the Early Church

While the Bible provides limited information about Epenetus, his mention by Paul suggests that he held a place of affection and importance within the early Christian community. Being the first convert in a significant region like Asia implies that Epenetus may have played a foundational role in the growth and development of the church there. His conversion would have been a source of encouragement and inspiration to other believers, serving as a testament to the power of the Gospel to transform lives.

Paul's Relationship with Epenetus

Paul's reference to Epenetus as "my beloved" indicates a close personal relationship. This term of endearment suggests that Epenetus was not only a convert but also a trusted and cherished companion in the faith. Paul's affectionate greeting underscores the deep bonds of fellowship and love that characterized the early Christian communities.

Theological Significance

Epenetus's conversion is a testament to the fulfillment of the Great Commission, as the Gospel began to reach the Gentile world beyond the borders of Judea. His account exemplifies the transformative impact of the Gospel and the spread of Christianity across diverse cultures and regions. Epenetus serves as a reminder of the early church's mission to bring the message of Christ to all nations, a mission that continues to this day.

Legacy

Though Epenetus is mentioned only briefly in the New Testament, his legacy as the first convert in Asia is significant. His faith and commitment to Christ laid the groundwork for the establishment of Christian communities in a region that would become a vital center for early Christianity. Epenetus's account is a powerful example of how individual conversions can have far-reaching effects in the advancement of God's kingdom.Epenetus

laudable; worthy of praise

Epenetus

(praiseworthy), a Christian at Rome, greeted by St. Paul in (Romans 16:5) and designated as his beloved and the first-fruit of Asia unto Christ.

Epenetus

Saluted by Paul in his epistle to Rome, Romans 16:5, and called "the firstfruits of Achaia," that is, one of his first converts there. Many manuscripts and versions read Asia instead of Achaia.

1866. Epainetos -- "praiseworthy," Epaenetus, a Christian of Rome
... Epenetus. From epaineo; praised; Epaenetus, a Christian -- Epenetus. see GREEK epaineo.
(epaineton) -- 1 Occurrence. 1865, 1866. Epainetos. 1867 . ...
//strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1866.htm - 6k

Rom. xvi. 5
... Homily XXXI. Rom. XVI. 5. Rom. XVI.5 "Salute my well-beloved Epenetus, who
is the first-fruits of Achaia unto Christ.". I Think that ...
/.../chrysostom/homilies on acts and romans/homily xxxi rom xvi 5.htm

The Epistle to the Romans
... 19; I:Cor.16:19; II:Tim.4:19, there is a greater probability that Aquila and Priscilla
were at Ephesus than in the imperial city; and that Epenetus is called ...
/.../drummond/introduction to the new testament/the epistle to the romans.htm

Epenetus (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Epenetus (1 Occurrence). ... Salute my well-beloved Epenetus,
who is the first-fruits of Achaia to Christ. (WBS NIV). ...
/e/epenetus.htm - 6k

Epaenetus (1 Occurrence)
... of Romans 16:3-16, for it is argued that they are addressed to the church in Ephesus
owing to the fact that Prisca and Aquila and Epenetus are known to have ...
/e/epaenetus.htm - 8k

Eparchy (2 Occurrences)

/e/eparchy.htm - 7k

Ephah (55 Occurrences)

/e/ephah.htm - 27k

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