Stephanas Στεφανᾶς
Corinthian believer, baptized by Paul, sent to visit him.
Who is Stephanas in the Bible?
Stephanas was a believer from Corinth whose household was among the first converts in Achaia and was personally baptized by Paul (1 Corinthians 1:16). Paul commends Stephanas and his family in 1 Corinthians 16:15 for their dedicated service to the saints, suggesting they were actively involved in ministering to the needs of the Corinthian church. Later, Stephanas traveled to visit Paul along with Fortunatus and Achaicus, providing him comfort and encouragement during a difficult time (1 Corinthians 16:17). His significance lies in exemplifying early Christian devotion and hospitality, as his household apparently opened their home to serve the local church community.
Biography
Stephanas was a member of the church in Corinth who is mentioned in 1Co.1.16 and 1Co.16.15-17. He and his household were among the first converts in Achaia (the region of Greece where Corinth was located) and were baptized by Paul himself (1Co.1.16).
In 1Co.16.15, Paul commends the household of Stephanas for their dedication to the service of the saints. This suggests that Stephanas and his family were actively involved in ministering to the needs of the believers in Corinth and had distinguished themselves through their devotion and service.
Later in the same chapter, Paul mentions that Stephanas, along with Fortunatus and Achaicus, had visited him and provided comfort and encouragement (1Co.16.17-18). Their presence was a source of joy and refreshment for Paul, who was facing challenges and opposition in his ministry.
Paul urges the Corinthian church to submit to and acknowledge leaders like Stephanas, who had devoted themselves to the work of the ministry (1Co.16.16). This indicates that Stephanas was a respected leader in the Corinthian church, known for his service and commitment to the gospel.
Overall, Stephanas emerges as an exemplary member of the early church, whose faith, service, and support were highly valued by Paul and the Corinthian believers.
In Scripture
1 biblical book ; 1 with study content1 Corinthians 4 verses
- 1 Corinthians 1:16
"Yes, I also baptized the household of Stephanas; beyond that I do not remember if I baptized anyone else."
Study 1 Corinthians → - 1 Corinthians 16:15
"You know that Stephanas and his household were the first converts in Achaia, and they have devoted themselves to the service of the saints. Now I urge you, brothers,"
Study 1 Corinthians → - 1 Corinthians 16:17
"I am glad that Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus have arrived, because they have supplied what was lacking from you."
Study 1 Corinthians → - 1 Corinthians 16:24
"My love be with all of you in Christ Jesus. Amen."
Study 1 Corinthians →
Names & Aliases
| Form | Language | Script |
|---|---|---|
| Named | Greek | Στεφανᾶς |
| (same form as previous) | Greek | Στεφανᾶς |
Encyclopedia Article
ISBE 1915 (Public Domain) Stephanas
oned in 1Co 16:15 as the first family won to Christ in Achaia, and in 1Co 1:16 as among the few personally baptized by Paul at Corinth. The "house of Stephanas," apparently of independent means, had "set themselves to minister unto the saints" (1Co 16:15), i.e. to do Christian service. Possibly this service consisted in putting their house at the disposal of the Christians at Corinth for worshipping, or in rendering special assistance in establishing intercommunication between the Corinthian church and the apostle, or the other churches. An instance of such service was the commission of Stephanas at Ephesus referred to in 1Co 16:17,18. At the occasion of some disorders in the Corinthian church Stephanas, with Fortunatus and Achaicus in the deputation, brought a letter of the Corinthians to Paul. Our present 1 Corinthians is the reply to this letter, and thus, in all probability, the three men mentioned above were the bearers of this epistle. With fine courtesy Paul expresses his appreciation for this service in 1Co 16:18, referring to it as a cherished opportunity of fellowship with his beloved Corinthians through these representatives. It is in consideration of such Christian service that Paul enjoins upon the Corinthians to show the house of Stephanas that respect and deference due to Christian leaders by willingly submitting to their direction.
S. D. Press
ste'-vn (Stephanos, "crown" (Ac 6:5-8:12)):