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Who is sosthenes in Acts 18?

Published in Biblical Figures 3 mins read

Who is Sosthenes in Acts 18?

Sosthenes was the chief ruler of the synagogue in Corinth, who is known for being seized and beaten by a mob in the presence of the Roman governor, Gallio, as recorded in the Book of Acts.

The Identity and Role of Sosthenes

In Acts chapter 18, Sosthenes is identified as the chief ruler of the synagogue at Corinth. His name, Sōsthénēs (Σωσθένης) in Greek, translates to "safe in strength." This position indicates he was a prominent leader within the Jewish community in Corinth, responsible for the synagogue's affairs and services.

During the Apostle Paul's ministry in Corinth, the Jewish leaders, including Sosthenes, brought Paul before Gallio, the Roman proconsul, accusing him of persuading people to worship God in ways contrary to Roman law. However, Gallio refused to intervene in what he considered a matter of Jewish religious law, dismissing the case.

The Incident in Acts 18:12–17

The critical moment involving Sosthenes occurs immediately after Gallio's refusal to judge Paul:

  • The Seizure: A mob, for reasons not explicitly stated but likely stemming from the frustration of the Jews at the failed prosecution of Paul, seized Sosthenes.
  • The Beating: Sosthenes was then beaten by this mob.
  • Gallio's Indifference: This beating took place in the presence of Governor Gallio, who reportedly "cared nothing for all this," indicating his detachment from the local religious disputes and violence.

This event is a vivid illustration of the volatile atmosphere Paul often encountered as he spread the Christian message throughout the Roman Empire. The incident is detailed in Acts 18:12–17.

Key Facts About Sosthenes in Acts 18

Here's a summary of the essential information about Sosthenes from Acts 18:

Aspect Detail
Name Sosthenes (Greek: Σωσθένης, Sōsthénēs)
Meaning "Safe in strength"
Role Chief ruler of the Synagogue
Location Corinth
Key Event Seized and beaten by a mob
Context After Gallio dismissed the case against Paul
Witness Gallio, the Roman governor
Biblical Ref. Acts 18:12–17

Beyond Acts 18: A Later Mention

While Acts 18 provides this specific account, a "Sosthenes" is also mentioned elsewhere in the New Testament:

  • 1 Corinthians 1:1: The Apostle Paul begins his First Letter to the Corinthians with the salutation, "Paul, called to be an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and our brother Sosthenes."

This has led to scholarly discussion about whether the Sosthenes who was beaten in Acts 18 is the same individual who later became a Christian and a co-author or companion of Paul. If they are the same person, it would represent a remarkable transformation, from an opponent of Paul's ministry to a fellow worker in the Gospel. However, given that Sosthenes was a common name, it is also possible that these are two different individuals. The text of Acts 18 itself does not confirm any subsequent conversion of this particular Sosthenes.