Ἔραστος

Erastus

Definition

Erastus is a personal name meaning 'beloved' or 'lovely,' borne by at least two distinct individuals in the New Testament. In Acts 19:22, an Erastus is a coworker of Paul, sent with Timothy into Macedonia during Paul's third missionary journey. In Romans 16:23, an Erastus is identified as the city treasurer (οἰκονόμος, *oikonomos*, G3623) of Corinth, sending greetings to the church in Rome. In 2 Timothy 4:20, Paul mentions an Erastus who remained in Corinth, which may refer to the same treasurer or a different individual.

Biblical Usage

The name Erastus appears three times in the New Testament, always as a proper noun referring to a Christian associate of Paul. It is used in narrative (Acts 19:22), epistolary greetings (Romans 16:23), and personal remarks (2 Timothy 4:20). The usage highlights the practical, collaborative nature of early Christian ministry, showing Paul's reliance on trusted helpers in different cities.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek verb ἐράω (*eraō*, G2034), meaning 'to love' or 'to be in love with.' It is a common Greek personal name, an adjective used substantively, meaning 'beloved' or 'lovely.' It shares a root with the name 'Eros,' the Greek god of love, but in its adjectival form, it carries a general sense of being cherished.

Semantic Range

While a personal name, Erastus, particularly the city treasurer in Romans 16:23, illustrates the social diversity within the early church. His position as a civic official of some means demonstrates that the gospel reached and was embraced by individuals of varying social statuses, contributing to the unity of the body of Christ described in passages like Galatians 3:28. His mention underscores the integration of faith and public vocation.

In the Greco-Roman world, personal names often carried descriptive meanings. 'Erastus' was a common name, reflecting a cultural value placed on love and affection. The Erastus of Romans 16:23 held the civic position of 'city treasurer' (οἰκονόμος τῆς πόλεως), a role of significant public responsibility and likely some wealth, indicating that early Christians were not solely from the lower classes.

Ἀγαπητός (agapētos, G27) — A more common NT term for 'beloved,' emphasizing divine or brotherly love rather than romantic or affectionate love. Φίλος (philos, G5384) — Means 'friend' or 'dear one,' focusing on affectionate friendship.

Word Details

Scripture References