Jump to: Hitchcock's • Smith's • ATS • ISBE • Easton's • Concordance • Thesaurus • Greek • Library • Subtopics • Terms Topical Encyclopedia Erastus is a biblical figure mentioned in the New Testament, known for his role in the early Christian church and his association with the Apostle Paul. His name, of Greek origin, means "beloved" or "lovely," reflecting a common practice of the time to use names with positive connotations.Biblical References: 1. Acts 19:22 · Erastus is first mentioned in the context of Paul's third missionary journey. "So he sent two of his helpers, Timothy and Erastus, to Macedonia, while he stayed in the province of Asia a little longer." Here, Erastus is identified as one of Paul's assistants, entrusted with significant responsibilities in the early church's missionary activities. 2. Romans 16:23 · In Paul's letter to the Romans, Erastus is noted for his civic position: "Gaius, who is host to me and the whole church, sends you greetings. Erastus, the city treasurer, sends you greetings, as does our brother Quartus." This reference highlights Erastus's role as the city treasurer of Corinth, indicating his prominence and influence within the local community. His position suggests that early Christianity reached individuals of various social standings, including those in governmental roles. 3. 2 Timothy 4:20 · In this epistle, Paul provides a brief update on Erastus's whereabouts: "Erastus has remained at Corinth, and I left Trophimus sick in Miletus." This mention, though brief, underscores Erastus's continued presence and likely involvement in the Corinthian church, a significant center for early Christian activity. Historical and Archaeological Context: The mention of Erastus as the city treasurer in Romans 16:23 has been supported by archaeological findings. A pavement inscription discovered in Corinth, dating to the mid-first century, bears the name "Erastus" and refers to him as an aedile, a public official responsible for public works and services. This inscription is often associated with the biblical Erastus, providing a tangible link between the scriptural account and historical evidence. Role in Early Christianity: Erastus's involvement in the early church, as evidenced by his travels with Paul and his civic duties, illustrates the diverse backgrounds of early Christian converts. His position as a city treasurer suggests that the Christian message resonated across different societal levels, reaching both the common people and those in positions of authority. Erastus's example demonstrates the integration of faith and public service, as he likely used his influence to support the burgeoning Christian community in Corinth. Theological Significance: Erastus's life and work reflect the transformative power of the Gospel, which transcends social and economic barriers. His account is a testament to the early church's growth and the spread of Christianity through the efforts of dedicated individuals who balanced their faith with their professional responsibilities. As a companion of Paul, Erastus played a part in the missionary endeavors that laid the foundation for the Christian faith's expansion throughout the Roman Empire. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary ErastusSmith's Bible Dictionary Erastus(beloved).
ATS Bible Dictionary ErastusA Christian friend and fellow-laborer of Paul, a Corinthian, and chamberlain-that is, steward or treasurer-of the city. He followed Paul to Ephesus, and attended Timothy in a mission to Macedonia, Acts 19:22. He was again at Corinth when Paul wrote to the Romans, Romans 16:23; and remained there when Paul went as a prisoner to Rome, 2 Timothy 4:20. Easton's Bible Dictionary Beloved. (1.) The "chamberlain" of the city of Corinth (Romans 16:23), and one of Paul's disciples. As treasurer of such a city he was a public officer of great dignity, and his conversion to the gospel was accordingly a proof of the wonderful success of the apostle's labours. (2.) A companion of Paul at Ephesus, who was sent by him along with Timothy into Macedonia (Acts 19:22). Corinth was his usual place of abode (2 Timothy 4:20); but probably he may have been the same as the preceding. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia ERASTUSe-ras'-tus (Erastos, "beloved"): Greek 2037. Erastos -- "beloved," Erastus, the name of two Christians ... "beloved," Erastus, the name of ... Word Origin from erao (to love) Definition "beloved," Erastus, the name of two Christian NASB Word Usage Erastus (3). Erastus. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2037.htm - 6k 2890. Kouartos -- Quartus, a Christian at Rome Library Quartus a Brother Accordingly, Let us Pass on to Another Charge Made by Celsus... Knox and the Scottish Revolution, 1559 Acts xix. 21, 23 2 Timothy iv. 13-Sep Acts XIX The General Conference of 1820 Pastoral and Personal The Pastoral Epistles Letter F Thesaurus Erastus (3 Occurrences)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. ERASTUS. ... (1) Erastus was sent with Timothy from Ephesus into Macedonia while Paul remained in Asia for a while. ... /e/erastus.htm - 9k Eras'tus (3 Occurrences) Chamberlain (14 Occurrences) Quartus (1 Occurrence) Steward (23 Occurrences) Treasurer (6 Occurrences) Stayed (169 Occurrences) Corinth (13 Occurrences) Greetings (48 Occurrences) Greet (46 Occurrences) Resources Who was Erastus in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat happened on Paul's third missionary journey? | GotQuestions.org New Testament Individuals ' Article Index | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Erastus (3 Occurrences)Acts 19:22 Romans 16:23 2 Timothy 4:20 Subtopics Erastus: Convert of Paul's, Probably Same As Preceding Related Terms |