Demetrius is a name mentioned in the New Testament, associated with two distinct individuals who played different roles in the early Christian narrative. The name itself is of Greek origin, meaning "belonging to Demeter," the Greek goddess of agriculture.

1. Demetrius the Silversmith: This Demetrius is prominently featured in the Book of Acts, specifically in Acts 19:23-41. He was a silversmith in Ephesus, a city known for its devotion to the goddess Artemis. Demetrius crafted silver shrines of Artemis, which were a significant source of income for him and other craftsmen in the city. As the Apostle Paul preached the Gospel in Ephesus, many people turned away from idol worship, which threatened the livelihood of those who profited from the sale of idols.

In Acts 19:24-27 , it is recorded: "For a silversmith named Demetrius, who made silver shrines of Artemis, brought in a great deal of business for the craftsmen. Demetrius assembled the craftsmen, along with the workmen in related trades. 'Men,' he said, 'you know that this business is our source of prosperity. And you can see and hear that not only in Ephesus but in nearly the whole province of Asia, this Paul has persuaded and turned away a great number of people. He says that man-made gods are no gods at all. There is danger not only that our trade will lose its good name, but also that the temple of the great goddess Artemis will be discredited and her majesty deposed, she who is worshiped by all the province of Asia and the world.'"

Demetrius's actions led to a significant uproar in Ephesus, culminating in a large-scale riot. The city was in turmoil as the crowd gathered in the theater, shouting, "Great is Artemis of the Ephesians!" (Acts 19:28). The uproar was eventually calmed by the city clerk, who dismissed the assembly, warning of the legal repercussions of such disorder.

2. Demetrius the Christian: Another Demetrius is mentioned in the Third Epistle of John. This Demetrius is commended by the Apostle John for his faithfulness and good testimony. In 3 John 1:12 , it is written: "Demetrius has received a good testimony from everyone—and from the truth itself. We also testify for him, and you know that our testimony is true."

This Demetrius is portrayed as a positive figure within the early Christian community, contrasting sharply with the silversmith of Ephesus. His commendation by John suggests that he was a man of integrity and truth, well-regarded by fellow believers.

The accounts of these two individuals named Demetrius highlight the diverse responses to the spread of Christianity in the first century. While one opposed the Gospel due to economic interests, the other embraced it, earning a commendable reputation among the early Christians. These narratives reflect the broader societal tensions and transformations occurring as the message of Christ spread throughout the Roman Empire.Deme'trius (3 Occurrences)

Acts 19:24
for a certain one, Demetrius by name, a worker in silver, making silver sanctuaries of Artemis, was bringing to the artificers gain not a little,
(See RSV)

Acts 19:38
if indeed, therefore, Demetrius and the artificers with him with any one have a matter, court 'days' are held, and there are proconsuls; let them accuse one another.
(See RSV)

3 John 1:12
to Demetrius testimony hath been given by all, and by the truth itself, and we also -- we do testify, and ye have known that our testimony is true.
(See RSV)

Deme'trius (3 Occurrences)
Deme'trius. Demetrius, Deme'trius. Demmeseh . Multi-Version Concordance
Deme'trius (3 Occurrences). Acts 19:24 for a certain one ...
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Demetrius (3 Occurrences)

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Demmeseh (1 Occurrence)

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