Meaning of the Name Erastus
Erastus is commonly connected with the Greek erastos and is usually explained as "beloved," "loved," or "esteemed." This etymology is widely accepted. The name carries a sense of affection and regard.
Origin
The name Erastus is of Greek origin.
Who is Erastus in the Bible?
Erastus appears among believers associated with Paul's ministry. In one place he is called the city treasurer of Corinth; elsewhere he appears among Paul's companions, and at one point Paul notes that he remained in Corinth. His name therefore suggests a Christ-follower who also held a public civic role.
The story of Erastus in the Bible
Erastus is a trusted believer who appears within Paul's circle of ministry. In Acts, while Paul's work in Ephesus continues, he sends two of his helpers, Timothy and Erastus, on to Macedonia, a detail showing that Erastus belonged to the apostle's close working team. In the greetings at the end of Romans, Erastus is identified as the city official responsible for Corinth's finances, a striking note that among the first generation of believers stood someone carrying public responsibility. In his final letter, 2 Timothy, Paul writes that Erastus stayed on in Corinth, a brief line showing that his name remained familiar even at the end of the apostle's journeys. Scripture does not state whether these three mentions all point to the same man, yet the name Erastus carries the memory of a believer who served both his city and the church, placing his practical skills at the service of the gospel.
Is Erastus mentioned in the Quran?
The name Erastus does not appear in the Quran; it belongs to a believer associated with Corinth, mentioned in the New Testament in Acts and in Paul's letters.
Verses where Erastus appears
- Romans 16:23 —
Gaius, my host and host of the whole assembly, greets you. Erastus, the treasurer of the city, greets you, as does Quartus, the brother.
- Acts 19:22 —
Having sent into Macedonia two of those who served him, Timothy and Erastus, he himself stayed in Asia for a while.
- 2 Timothy 4:20 —
Erastus remained at Corinth, but I left Trophimus at Miletus sick.