Troph'imus is a notable figure in the New Testament, recognized as a companion of the Apostle Paul. He is mentioned in several passages, primarily in the Acts of the Apostles and the Pauline Epistles, where his role and experiences provide insight into the early Christian church and its missionary activities.

Background and Origin

Troph'imus was a Gentile Christian from Ephesus, a major city in the Roman province of Asia (modern-day Turkey). His Greek name suggests a Hellenistic background, which was common among the early converts in the region. As a native of Ephesus, Troph'imus would have been familiar with the city's vibrant culture and its significant role as a center of commerce and religion.

Companion of Paul

Troph'imus is first mentioned in Acts 20:4, where he is listed among the group of men who accompanied Paul on his journey from Greece to Asia. This group included representatives from various churches, indicating the unity and cooperation among the early Christian communities. Troph'imus's presence in this delegation underscores his importance and trustworthiness as a fellow worker in the ministry.

Incident in Jerusalem

One of the most significant events involving Troph'imus occurs in Acts 21. Paul, upon returning to Jerusalem, is falsely accused by some Jews of bringing Gentiles into the temple, thereby defiling it. The accusation specifically mentions Troph'imus, as seen in Acts 21:29 : "For they had previously seen Trophimus the Ephesian in the city with him, and they assumed that Paul had brought him into the temple." This misunderstanding led to a riot and Paul's subsequent arrest, highlighting the tensions between Jewish and Gentile believers and the challenges faced by the early church in navigating cultural and religious boundaries.

Later Life and Ministry

Troph'imus is mentioned again in 2 Timothy 4:20 , where Paul notes, "Erastus has remained at Corinth, and Trophimus I left sick in Miletus." This brief mention provides a glimpse into the hardships faced by early Christian missionaries, including illness and the need for strategic decisions in their travels and ministry work. It also reflects the personal nature of Paul's letters, as he shares the circumstances of his companions with Timothy.

Significance

Troph'imus's account is emblematic of the broader narrative of the early church's expansion and the inclusion of Gentiles into the Christian faith. His experiences illustrate the challenges and opposition faced by the apostles and their companions as they spread the Gospel across diverse cultural landscapes. Troph'imus's dedication to the mission and his close association with Paul highlight the vital role of lay believers in the growth and establishment of the early church.

In summary, Troph'imus serves as a testament to the collaborative efforts of early Christians and the transformative power of the Gospel in bridging cultural divides. His life and ministry, though only briefly mentioned in the New Testament, offer valuable insights into the dynamics of the early Christian movement and the enduring legacy of those who labored alongside the apostles.Troph'imus (3 Occurrences)

Acts 20:4
And there were accompanying him unto Asia, Sopater of Berea, and of Thessalonians Aristarchus and Secundus, and Gaius of Derbe, and Timotheus, and of Asiatics Tychicus and Trophimus;
(See RSV)

Acts 21:29
For they had previously seen Trophimus the Ephesian in the city with him, and they supposed that Paul had brought him into the temple.
(See NAS)

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

Troph'imus (3 Occurrences)
Troph'imus. Trophimus, Troph'imus. Troth . Multi-Version Concordance
Troph'imus (3 Occurrences). Acts 20:4 And there were accompanying ...
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Trophimus (3 Occurrences)

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Troth (1 Occurrence)

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