Topical Encyclopedia Quartus is a relatively obscure figure mentioned in the New Testament, specifically in the Epistle to the Romans. His mention is brief, yet it provides a glimpse into the early Christian community and the interconnectedness of believers across different regions.Biblical Reference: Quartus is mentioned in Romans 16:23, where the Apostle Paul sends greetings from various individuals to the believers in Rome. The verse reads: "Gaius, who is host to me and to the whole church, greets you. Erastus, the city treasurer, and our brother Quartus greet you" (Berean Standard Bible). This greeting is part of a larger section where Paul acknowledges and sends greetings from several members of the Christian community in Corinth. Context and Significance: Quartus is identified as "our brother," indicating his status as a fellow believer and member of the early Christian church. The use of the term "brother" reflects the familial language commonly used among Christians, emphasizing the spiritual kinship and unity among followers of Christ. Although little is known about Quartus beyond this mention, his inclusion in Paul's letter suggests that he was a respected member of the Corinthian church. The city of Corinth, where Quartus was located, was a significant center for early Christianity. It was a bustling, cosmopolitan city known for its commerce and diverse population. The church in Corinth faced various challenges, including issues of division and immorality, as evidenced by Paul's letters to the Corinthians. Despite these challenges, the presence of faithful believers like Quartus highlights the strength and resilience of the early Christian community. Role in the Early Church: While Quartus's specific role within the church is not detailed, his mention alongside notable figures such as Gaius and Erastus suggests that he was an active participant in the life of the church. Gaius is noted as a host to Paul and the church, and Erastus is identified as the city treasurer, indicating their significant roles in both the church and the broader society. Quartus's association with these individuals may imply that he, too, contributed to the church's mission and ministry in Corinth. Theological Implications: Quartus's brief mention serves as a reminder of the many unnamed and lesser-known individuals who played vital roles in the spread of Christianity. His inclusion in the greetings of Romans 16 underscores the importance of every member of the body of Christ, regardless of their prominence or the extent of their recorded contributions. The early church was a tapestry of diverse individuals, each contributing to the growth and sustenance of the Christian faith. Conclusion: Quartus, though mentioned only once in the New Testament, represents the countless faithful believers who have supported and advanced the mission of the church throughout history. His presence in the Corinthian church, alongside other notable figures, highlights the collaborative and communal nature of early Christianity. Nave's Topical Index Romans 16:23Gaius my host, and of the whole church, salutes you. Erastus the chamberlain of the city salutes you, and Quartus a brother. Nave's Topical Index Library Quartus a Brother The Same Hippolytus on the Seventy Apostles. Rom. xvi. 17, 18 Footnotes Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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