Aristarchus
Paul's faithful coworker from Thessalonica
Aussi appelé : Aristarchus
Aristarchus from Thessalonica in Macedonia distinguished himself as one of the most steadfast companions in the apostle Paul's missionary work. He was present during the dramatic riot in Ephesus, where he was seized by the crowd along with Gaius, yet he continued to follow Paul on his further journeys through Macedonia, Greece, and all the way to Rome. When Paul was imprisoned in Rome, Aristarchus stood by his side as a fellow prisoner—a designation that underscores his willingness to personally bear the costs of faithfulness to the gospel. His repeated mention in both Acts, Colossians, and Philemon testifies to a man who was deeply trusted within the network of the early church and indispensable in Paul's service.
Événements clés
The Riot in Ephesus
During the riot led by the silversmith Demetrius in Ephesus, Aristarchus and Gaius, both Macedonians, were dragged into the theater by the angry mob. The incident illustrates the concrete dangers faced by early Christian missionaries.
Journey with Paul through Macedonia and Greece
Aristarchus from Thessalonica was among those who accompanied Paul on his journey from Ephesus through Macedonia and Greece, and he was one of the companions waiting for the apostle in Troas.
The Sea Voyage to Rome
When Paul was taken as a prisoner from Caesarea to Rome, Aristarchus from Thessalonica was on board. His presence on this dangerous journey testifies to deep personal loyalty toward the apostle.
Fellow Prisoner in Rome
In the letter to the Colossians, Paul sends greetings from Aristarchus and refers to him as his fellow prisoner. This suggests that Aristarchus shared Paul's imprisonment in Rome and bore the burden of captivity together with him.
Mentioned as a Fellow Worker in the Letter to Philemon
Paul mentions Aristarchus among his fellow workers in the greetings of the letter to Philemon, confirming his continued service at the apostle's side.