Theophilus

Definition

Theophilus is a name that appears in the opening verses of both the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles, traditionally believed to refer to an individual or a group who was a patron or recipient of these writings. The name itself means 'friend of God' or 'loved by God,' and it raises questions about the intended audience and purpose of these texts, connecting them to the broader themes of faith and community within early Christianity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The identity of Theophilus is debated among scholars; he could be a real individual or a symbolic representation of all believers in Christ.
2. The use of Theophilus in both Luke and Acts suggests that these texts were designed not only for individual consumption but also for a community audience.
3. The title 'most excellent' used to address Theophilus in Luke implies that he may have held a position of some social status or influence.
4. References to Theophilus serve to establish a formal tone at the beginning of both texts, indicating their serious intent as historical accounts.
5. Theophilus's inclusion underscores themes of divine favor and enlightenment found throughout the writings attributed to Luke.

Review Questions

• What is the significance of the name Theophilus in understanding the audience of Luke and Acts?
  • The name Theophilus, meaning 'friend of God,' invites interpretation regarding the intended audience for these texts. It suggests that Luke aimed to address not just an individual but potentially a wider community interested in the teachings and events surrounding Jesus and the early church. This contextualizes Luke's works as an effort to build faith among believers and provide them with a cohesive narrative about their spiritual heritage.
• How does addressing Theophilus contribute to the overall themes presented in both the Gospel of Luke and Acts?
  • Addressing Theophilus establishes a personal connection that enhances the narrative's authenticity and purpose. It indicates that both works are meant for someone seeking clarity about their faith, reinforcing themes such as community building, discipleship, and divine intervention. By framing these stories for Theophilus, Luke emphasizes that they carry significant meaning for all followers of Jesus, linking them directly to early Christian teachings.
• Evaluate the implications of Theophilus's role in shaping our understanding of early Christian patronage and community engagement.
  • Theophilus's potential role as a patron highlights how early Christian texts were often created with support from influential figures. This relationship illustrates a model for how communities relied on patrons for resources needed to disseminate religious teachings. By analyzing this connection, we can appreciate how financial and social backing impacted the spread of Christianity and shaped early church dynamics, ultimately influencing how faith was practiced and understood among believers.

Related terms

Luke: The third Gospel in the New Testament, attributed to Luke the Evangelist, which emphasizes the compassion of Jesus and the inclusion of marginalized groups.

Acts of the Apostles: A continuation of the Gospel of Luke that describes the early church's formation and expansion after Jesus' ascension, highlighting the role of the apostles.

Patronage: The support provided by a patron, often influential individuals or families, who could help fund and spread religious writings or movements.