Erastus has remained at Corinth, and Trophimus I left sick in Miletus. Erastus has remained at Corinth,Erastus is mentioned in several New Testament passages, indicating his significance in the early Christian community. In Romans 16:23, he is referred to as the city treasurer, suggesting a person of influence and responsibility in Corinth. Corinth was a major city in ancient Greece, known for its wealth and strategic location. The presence of Erastus in Corinth highlights the spread of Christianity into influential urban centers. His role as a city official may have facilitated the church's growth and provided a degree of protection or legitimacy. This mention underscores the diverse backgrounds of early Christians, from common laborers to city officials. Rom 16:23 Gaius, who has hosted me and all the church,… and Trophimus I left sick in Miletus. Trophimus was a Gentile believer from Ephesus, as noted in Acts 21:29, where his presence with Paul in Jerusalem caused a stir among the Jews. Miletus was a coastal city in Asia Minor, near Ephesus, and served as a significant port and trade center. Paul's decision to leave Trophimus sick in Miletus reflects the reality of human frailty and illness, even among faithful servants of God. It also indicates that miraculous healings were not always the norm, even in the apostolic age. This situation may have tested the faith and patience of both Trophimus and the early church, reminding believers of the importance of trusting God's sovereignty in all circumstances. Act 20:4 Paul was accompanied by Sopater son of Pyrrhus from Berea,… Persons / Places / Events 1. ErastusA companion of Paul, possibly the city treasurer of Corinth mentioned in Romans 16:23. His staying in Corinth suggests his role was significant and possibly tied to his responsibilities there. 2. Trophimus A Gentile Christian from Ephesus who accompanied Paul on his journeys. His illness in Miletus highlights the reality of human frailty, even among the early church leaders. 3. Corinth A major city in ancient Greece, known for its commerce and diverse population. It was a significant center for early Christian activity and the location where Erastus remained. 4. Miletus An ancient city on the western coast of Asia Minor. It was a place where Paul had previously met with the Ephesian elders (Acts 20:17-38), and now it is noted as the place where Trophimus was left sick. Teaching Points The Reality of Human FrailtyTrophimus's illness reminds us that even the most faithful servants of God are not immune to physical ailments. This encourages us to rely on God's strength in our weaknesses. Faithfulness in Ministry Erastus's decision to remain in Corinth suggests a commitment to his responsibilities. We are called to be faithful in the roles God has placed us in, whether they seem significant or mundane. The Importance of Community The mention of these individuals highlights the interconnectedness of the early church. We are reminded of the importance of supporting one another in our spiritual journeys. Trusting God's Timing Paul had to leave Trophimus sick in Miletus, indicating that sometimes God's plans differ from our desires. We must trust in His timing and purposes, even when they are not immediately clear. Bible Study Questions 1. What can we learn from Erastus's role in Corinth about being faithful in our secular responsibilities while serving God?2. How does Trophimus's illness challenge the notion that faithfulness to God guarantees physical health and prosperity? 3. In what ways can we support fellow believers who are experiencing physical or spiritual challenges, as seen in the early church community? 4. How does the mention of specific individuals and locations in Paul's letters enhance our understanding of the early church's dynamics and challenges? 5. Reflect on a time when you had to trust God's timing in your life. How can the example of Paul leaving Trophimus in Miletus encourage you in similar situations? Connections to Other Scriptures Romans 16:23Mentions Erastus as the city treasurer, providing insight into his possible role and responsibilities in Corinth. Acts 20:4 Lists Trophimus among those accompanying Paul, indicating his active involvement in Paul's ministry. Acts 20:17-38 Describes Paul's meeting with the Ephesian elders in Miletus, providing context for the significance of this location in Paul's ministry.
People Alexander, Aquila, Claudia, Crescens, Demas, Erastus, Eubulus, Linus, Luke, Mark, Onesiphorus, Paul, Prisca, Priscilla, Pudens, Timothy, Titus, Trophimus, TychicusPlaces Corinth, Dalmatia, Ephesus, Galatia, Miletus, Thessalonica, TroasTopics Abode, Behind, Corinth, Erastus, Eras'tus, Ill, Infirm, Miletum, Miletus, Mile'tus, Sick, Stayed, Stopping, Trophimus, Troph'imusDictionary of Bible Themes 2 Timothy 4:20 5108 Paul, life of Library Truth Hidden when not Sought After. "They shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables."--2 Tim. iv. 4. From these words of the blessed Apostle, written shortly before he suffered martyrdom, we learn, that there is such a thing as religious truth, and therefore there is such a thing as religious error. We learn that religious truth is one--and therefore that all views of religion but one are wrong. And we learn, moreover, that so it was to be (for his words are a prophecy) that professed Christians, … John Henry Newman—Parochial and Plain Sermons, Vol. VIII A Last Look-Out Sermon for St. Peter's Day Demas Some Other Writers of the New Testament Epistle Liii. To John, Bishop. Paul's Departure and Crown; How the Meek and the Passionate are to be Admonished. A Fulfilled Aspiration The Glory of Jesus and Mary. Exhortation to Workers and Ministers Author's Introduction, Meditations of the Blessed State of the Regenerate Man after Death. Perseverance Conflict and Comfort. Concerning God's Purpose Second Missionary Journey How the Gospels came to be Written Because There is not a Single Scripture in the Church Epistles Which, Rightly Interpreted, Teaches a Partial Rapture. Curiosity a Temptation to Sin. Links 2 Timothy 4:20 NIV2 Timothy 4:20 NLT 2 Timothy 4:20 ESV 2 Timothy 4:20 NASB 2 Timothy 4:20 KJV 2 Timothy 4:20 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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