Κρίσπος

Crispus

Definition

Κρίσπος (Crispus) is a proper noun referring to a specific individual in the New Testament. He was the ruler of the synagogue in Corinth (Acts 18:8) who, along with his entire household, believed in the Lord and was baptized by the Apostle Paul. His conversion is presented as a significant event, demonstrating the gospel's power to reach prominent Jewish leaders. Paul later mentions him in 1 Corinthians 1:14 as one of the few individuals he personally baptized in Corinth, highlighting Crispus's importance in the early church there.

Biblical Usage

The name Κρίσπος is used only twice in the New Testament, both times referring to the same historical person. It appears in the narrative of Acts 18:8, detailing his conversion and baptism, and again in Paul's first letter to the Corinthians (1 Corinthians 1:14) as a personal reference in Paul's argument against divisions. The usage is strictly as a proper name for this early Christian convert.

Etymology

Κρίσπος is a Greek personal name derived from the adjective κριτός (kritos), meaning 'curly' or 'curly-haired.' It was a common name in the Greco-Roman world, not unique to biblical characters. The name itself carries no inherent theological meaning; it simply identifies an individual.

Semantic Range

While the name itself is not theologically loaded, the story of Crispus is significant. His conversion as a synagogue ruler symbolizes the breaking of barriers between the synagogue and the emerging Christian church and represents the fulfillment of the gospel being proclaimed 'to the Jew first' (Romans 1:16). Paul's specific mention of baptizing him underscores the importance of individual relationships in ministry and serves as a historical anchor point for the Corinthian church's founding.

As 'ruler of the synagogue' (ἀρχισυνάγωγος, archisynagōgos), Crispus held a position of considerable social and religious authority within the Jewish community of Corinth, a major Roman city. His public conversion to faith in Jesus Christ would have been a culturally shocking and consequential event, likely causing significant upheaval and drawing attention to the new Christian movement.

There are no direct synonyms, as it is a proper name. However, he is associated with other synagogue rulers: Σωσθένης (Sōsthenēs, G4988) — the ruler who succeeded Crispus in Corinth and was also converted (Acts 18:17; 1 Corinthians 1:1).

Word Details

Scripture References