Sosthenes is a biblical figure mentioned in the New Testament, specifically in the context of the early Christian church and the Apostle Paul's missionary journeys. His name, of Greek origin, means "safe in strength" or "saving strength." Sosthenes is primarily noted in the Book of Acts and the First Epistle to the Corinthians.

Acts 18:12-17

Sosthenes first appears in Acts 18:12-17, during Paul's ministry in Corinth. The passage describes a tumultuous event where Paul is brought before Gallio, the proconsul of Achaia, by the Jews who accuse him of persuading people to worship God contrary to the law. Gallio, however, dismisses the case, seeing it as a matter of Jewish law rather than a civil offense. In the aftermath, the crowd turns on Sosthenes, who is identified as the synagogue leader, and beats him in front of the tribunal. The text does not specify why Sosthenes is beaten, but it suggests a possible internal conflict among the Jewish community or dissatisfaction with his leadership. The Berean Standard Bible states: "Then all of them turned on Sosthenes the synagogue leader and beat him in front of the judgment seat. But none of this was of concern to Gallio" (Acts 18:17).

1 Corinthians 1:1

Sosthenes is mentioned again in 1 Corinthians 1:1, where Paul refers to him as a co-author of the epistle: "Paul, called to be an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and our brother Sosthenes" (1 Corinthians 1:1). This reference indicates that Sosthenes had become a Christian and was a respected member of the early church. His inclusion as a co-author suggests that he was well-known to the Corinthian believers and held in high regard by Paul.

Role and Significance

The transition of Sosthenes from a synagogue leader, possibly opposed to Paul's teachings, to a Christian brother and co-author of a Pauline epistle, highlights the transformative power of the Gospel. His journey reflects the broader theme of reconciliation and unity within the early church, as individuals from diverse backgrounds came together in faith.

Sosthenes' role as a synagogue leader implies that he was a person of influence and authority within the Jewish community. His conversion to Christianity would have been significant, potentially impacting others in his sphere of influence. The fact that Paul mentions him in the opening of 1 Corinthians suggests that Sosthenes was not only a believer but also actively involved in the ministry and well-regarded by the Corinthian church.

Historical and Theological Context

The mention of Sosthenes in both Acts and 1 Corinthians provides insight into the challenges faced by the early church, particularly in regions like Corinth, where diverse cultural and religious influences intersected. The beating of Sosthenes in Acts 18 highlights the tensions between the Jewish community and the emerging Christian movement. It also underscores the indifference of Roman authorities, represented by Gallio, towards internal Jewish disputes.

Theologically, Sosthenes' account is a testament to the inclusivity of the Gospel message, which transcends ethnic and religious boundaries. His partnership with Paul in addressing the Corinthian church exemplifies the collaborative nature of early Christian leadership and the importance of unity in advancing the mission of the church.

In summary, Sosthenes is a notable figure in the New Testament, whose journey from a synagogue leader to a Christian brother and co-author of a Pauline letter illustrates the transformative impact of the Gospel and the diverse composition of the early church.Sos'thenes (2 Occurrences)

Acts 18:17
and all the Greeks having taken Sosthenes, the chief man of the synagogue, were beating 'him' before the tribunal, and not even for these things was Gallio caring.
(See RSV)

1 Corinthians 1:1
Paul, a called apostle of Jesus Christ, through the will of God, and Sosthenes the brother,
(See RSV)

Sos'thenes (2 Occurrences)
Sos'thenes. Sosthenes, Sos'thenes. Sostratus . Multi-Version Concordance
Sos'thenes (2 Occurrences). Acts 18:17 and all the Greeks ...
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Sostratus

/s/sostratus.htm - 7k

Sosthenes (2 Occurrences)

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