Lexical Summary Euboulos: Eubulus Original Word: Εὔβουλος Strong's Exhaustive Concordance Eubulus. From eu and boulomai; good-willer; Eubulus, a Christian -- Eubulus. see GREEK eu see GREEK boulomai NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom eu and boulé Definition "prudent," Eubulus, a Christian NASB Translation Eubulus (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 2103: ΑὔβουλοςΑὔβουλος, Ἐυβουλου, ὁ (literally, of good counsel), Eubulus, a Christian: 2 Timothy 4:21. STRONGS NT 2103a: εὖγεεὖγε, used in commendation, "Well done!" Luke 19:17 L T Tr WH. (Aristophanes, Plato, others; the Sept. for הֶאָח.) Cf. εὖ, at the end Eubulus is a first–century believer known exclusively from a single greeting recorded in 2 Timothy 4:21. His name, common in the Greco-Roman world, suggests one who offers sound counsel, an attribute consistent with the mature, supportive role he plays in Paul’s final epistle. Scriptural Setting “Make every effort to come before winter. Eubulus greets you, and so do Pudens, Linus, Claudia, and all the brothers.” (2 Timothy 4:21) The mention occurs in Paul’s second Roman imprisonment, shortly before his martyrdom. 2 Timothy is the Apostle’s last inspired letter, written to encourage Timothy amid widespread desertion (2 Timothy 1:15; 4:10, 16). Against this somber backdrop, Eubulus stands among a faithful remnant offering comfort and solidarity. Historical and Cultural Background 1. Roman Context Paul writes from Rome, likely the Mamertine Prison, around A.D. 66–67. Christianity is illegal but spreading. Local believers risk social and legal repercussions for identifying with a condemned prisoner. 2. Companions Listed Together Eubulus is grouped with Pudens, Linus, and Claudia—names that early church tradition associates with Roman leadership. Their greeting implies a home-base community in Rome that ministers to Paul’s needs. Ministry Contribution 1. Presence and Support While others abandoned Paul, Eubulus remained (contrast 2 Timothy 4:10). Personal presence at such a critical hour models the ministry of encouragement (Acts 28:15). 2. Facilitation of Communication His inclusion in Paul’s greeting indicates he helped convey messages and perhaps supplied necessities (2 Timothy 4:11-13). By standing with Paul, Eubulus affirmed apostolic authority and doctrine. 3. Bridge Between Generations Eubulus’s greeting to Timothy links two ministry generations—the aging apostle’s immediate circle and the next wave of leadership spearheaded by Timothy. Relationship to Paul and Timothy Paul names Eubulus first among the senders, hinting at a leading role in the Roman fellowship. The greeting demonstrates Paul’s pastoral concern: Timothy should know he is not alone; seasoned believers like Eubulus are safeguarding the gospel in Rome. Comparative Overview with Other Fellow Workers • Onesiphorus refreshed Paul and was “not ashamed” of his chains (2 Timothy 1:16–17). Spiritual Lessons and Applications 1. Faithfulness in Obscurity Scripture records no exploits, sermons, or miracles—only a greeting. Yet his loyalty in a difficult hour earns eternal mention, reminding believers that steadfast presence matters. 2. Fellowship Amid Persecution Christians thrive when they stand together. Eubulus’s care shows that small acts—visiting, greeting, supplying—sustain frontline servants of the gospel. 3. Encouragement for Leaders Timothy faced discouragement; hearing that mature saints in Rome remembered him would bolster resolve. Churches today still need Eubulus-type members who rally behind gospel laborers. 4. Enduring Testimony Although anonymous to history beyond this verse, Eubulus’s example encourages ordinary believers that faithfulness writes their names into God’s story. Summary Eubulus, noted once yet forever inscribed in Scripture, ministered to Paul during his final imprisonment and expressed brotherly affection toward Timothy. His quiet loyalty under pressure illustrates the power of steadfast fellowship, reinforcing the New Testament theme that every member of Christ’s body—whether prominent or obscure—contributes vitally to the advance and preservation of the gospel. |
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