Topical Encyclopedia The Synagogue of the Freedmen is mentioned in the New Testament, specifically in the Book of Acts. This synagogue is noted for its involvement in the events leading up to the martyrdom of Stephen, the first Christian martyr. The reference to the Synagogue of the Freedmen is found in Acts 6:9: "But some from what was called the Synagogue of the Freedmen (including both Cyrenians and Alexandrians), as well as some from Cilicia and Asia, rose up and disputed with Stephen" .Historical Context The term "Freedmen" refers to individuals who were formerly enslaved but had gained their freedom. In the context of the Jewish diaspora, many Jews lived outside of Judea, often in regions where they were subjected to slavery or servitude. Upon gaining their freedom, these individuals, or their descendants, would often form communities and establish synagogues in their new locales. The Synagogue of the Freedmen likely consisted of such individuals, possibly including descendants of Jewish slaves who had been taken to Rome and other parts of the Roman Empire. Cultural and Geographical Background The mention of Cyrenians, Alexandrians, Cilicians, and Asians indicates the diverse geographical origins of the members of this synagogue. Cyrene was a city in North Africa, modern-day Libya, known for its significant Jewish population. Alexandria, in Egypt, was another major center of Jewish life and learning. Cilicia and Asia refer to regions in what is now modern-day Turkey. The presence of these groups in Jerusalem suggests a vibrant and diverse Jewish community, with members who had returned to the city, possibly for religious festivals or to resettle. Role in the Early Church The Synagogue of the Freedmen played a pivotal role in the early opposition to the nascent Christian movement. The members of this synagogue were among those who engaged in debates with Stephen, one of the seven deacons appointed by the apostles to serve the early church (Acts 6:5). Stephen, known for his wisdom and filled with the Holy Spirit, performed great wonders and signs among the people (Acts 6:8). However, his teachings and the miracles he performed stirred controversy among certain Jewish groups, including those from the Synagogue of the Freedmen. Unable to withstand the wisdom and the Spirit by which Stephen spoke, members of the synagogue resorted to instigating false witnesses against him. They accused Stephen of blasphemy against Moses and God, claiming he spoke against the holy place and the law (Acts 6:11-14). This led to Stephen's arrest and subsequent trial before the Sanhedrin, where he delivered a powerful speech recounting Israel's history and accusing the Jewish leaders of resisting the Holy Spirit, culminating in his martyrdom by stoning (Acts 7). Theological Significance The opposition from the Synagogue of the Freedmen highlights the early tensions between traditional Jewish beliefs and the emerging Christian faith. Stephen's bold proclamation of Jesus as the Righteous One and his vision of Jesus standing at the right hand of God (Acts 7:56) underscored the radical shift that Christianity represented. The resistance from the Freedmen and others illustrates the challenges faced by the early church in proclaiming the gospel amidst a backdrop of deeply rooted religious traditions. The account of the Synagogue of the Freedmen serves as a reminder of the cost of discipleship and the courage required to stand firm in faith. Stephen's martyrdom marked a significant moment in the history of the early church, leading to increased persecution but also to the spread of the gospel beyond Jerusalem, as believers were scattered and continued to preach the word (Acts 8:1-4). Nave's Topical Index Acts 6:9Then there arose certain of the synagogue, which is called the synagogue of the Libertines, and Cyrenians, and Alexandrians, and of them of Cilicia and of Asia, disputing with Stephen. Nave's Topical Index Greek 3032. Libertinos -- Freedman, the name of a synagogue ... Word Origin of Latin origin Definition Freedman, the name of a synagogue NASB Word Usage Freedmen (1). Roman freedman, Libertine. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3032.htm - 6k Library Acts VI Acts vi. 8 Alexandria and Rome - the Jewish Communities in the Capitals of ... The Church and the Kingdom of Christ. Antioch Sources and Literature of the Apostolic Age. The Land and the People. Index i. Of Subjects Christian Cemeteries. Resources Who was Simon of Cyrene? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is libertinism? What is a libertine? | GotQuestions.org Freedmen: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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