Eras'tus is a biblical figure mentioned in the New Testament, known for his role in the early Christian church and his association with the Apostle Paul. His name, of Greek origin, means "beloved" or "lovely," which may reflect his esteemed position within the early Christian community.

Biblical References:

1. Acts 19:22 · Eras'tus is first mentioned in the context of Paul's missionary journeys. "So he sent two of his helpers, Timothy and Eras'tus, to Macedonia, while he stayed in the province of Asia a little longer." This passage highlights Eras'tus as a trusted companion and assistant to Paul, entrusted with important tasks in the spread of the Gospel.

2. Romans 16:23 · In Paul's letter to the Romans, Eras'tus is identified with a specific civic role: "Gaius, who is host to me and to the whole church, greets you. Eras'tus, the city treasurer, greets you, as does our brother Quartus." Here, Eras'tus is noted as the city treasurer of Corinth, indicating his significant social standing and influence. His position suggests that early Christianity reached individuals in various strata of society, including those in governmental roles.

3. 2 Timothy 4:20 · In this epistle, Paul provides a brief update on Eras'tus's whereabouts: "Eras'tus stayed in Corinth, and I left Trophimus sick in Miletus." This mention, though brief, reinforces Eras'tus's continued presence and activity in Corinth, a major center of early Christian activity.

Historical and Cultural Context:

Eras'tus's role as the city treasurer (Greek: οἰκονόμος, oikonomos) of Corinth is significant, as it implies a level of education, trust, and responsibility. Corinth was a major urban center in the Roman Empire, known for its wealth and strategic location. The position of city treasurer would have involved managing public funds and overseeing financial matters, indicating that Eras'tus was a person of considerable influence and capability.

The mention of Eras'tus in Romans 16:23 is further corroborated by archaeological evidence. An inscription discovered in Corinth refers to an Eras'tus who laid a pavement at his own expense, possibly the same individual mentioned by Paul. This inscription provides a tangible connection to the biblical text and supports the historical reliability of the New Testament accounts.

Theological Significance:

Eras'tus's involvement in the early church exemplifies the diverse backgrounds of early Christians and the spread of Christianity across different social classes. His position as a city official demonstrates that the Gospel reached not only the marginalized but also those in positions of power and influence. This reflects the transformative power of the Christian message, capable of transcending social and cultural barriers.

Eras'tus's dedication to the mission of the church, as evidenced by his travels and support of Paul's ministry, underscores the collaborative nature of early Christian evangelism. His life and work serve as a testament to the commitment and sacrifice of early believers in advancing the Gospel message throughout the Roman Empire.Eras'tus (3 Occurrences)

Acts 19:22
and having sent to Macedonia two of those ministering to him -- Timotheus and Erastus -- he himself stayed a time in Asia.
(See RSV)

Romans 16:23
salute you doth Gaius, my host, and of the whole assembly; salute you doth Erastus, the steward of the city, and Quartus the brother,
(See RSV)

2 Timothy 4:20
Erastus did remain in Corinth, and Trophimus I left in Miletus infirm;
(See RSV)

Eras'tus (3 Occurrences)
Eras'tus. Erastus, Eras'tus. Ere . Multi-Version Concordance Eras'tus
(3 Occurrences). Acts 19:22 and having sent to Macedonia two ...
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Erastus (3 Occurrences)

/e/erastus.htm - 9k

Ere (14 Occurrences)

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