Erastus (Greek: Ἔραστος, meaning “beloved”) was a prominent early Christian and a high-ranking official in the city of Corinth. He is a unique figure in the New Testament because he represents the intersection of the early church and the Roman political establishment.
Scriptural Mentions
Erastus is mentioned by name three times in the New Testament, illustrating his growth from a civic leader to a dedicated co-laborer with the Apostle Paul:
- The Ministering Helper: In Acts 19:22, Paul sends Erastus and Timothy from Ephesus into Macedonia to prepare for his upcoming visit. The text refers to them as “two of them that ministered unto him.”
- The City Treasurer: In Romans 16:23, Paul writes from Corinth and includes a greeting from Erastus. In this passage, he is given his official title:”Gaius mine host, and of the whole church, saluteth you. Erastus the chamberlain of the city saluteth you, and Quartus a brother.” (KJV)
- The Faithful Local: In 2 Timothy 4:20, Paul’s final letter before his martyrdom, he notes the current whereabouts of his companions: “Erastus abode at Corinth: but Trophimus have I left at Miletum sick.”
The “Chamberlain” of Corinth
The KJV uses the word “chamberlain” to translate the Greek word oikonomos. In a municipal context, this was a position of great dignity and financial responsibility—essentially the City Treasurer or Director of Public Works. His conversion was a powerful testimony to the influence of the Gospel among the educated and influential elite of Corinth.
Archaeological Evidence: The Erastus Inscription
Erastus is one of the few non-royal figures in the New Testament for whom there is strong archaeological evidence. In 1929, archaeologists in Corinth discovered a paved plaza near the city theater containing a Latin inscription dating to the mid-1st century.
The Inscription Reads: > ERASTVS PRO AEDILIT[at]E S P STRAVIT > (Erastus, in return for his aedileship, laid this pavement at his own expense.)
The office of “Aedile” mentioned in the stone was a Roman civic rank responsible for public buildings and streets, aligning perfectly with Paul’s description of Erastus as the city’s treasurer or steward.