When exploring the figures in the Bible, each name carries a story and a significance that extends beyond its historical context. One such name that appears briefly yet intriguingly is Justus. This article seeks to uncover who Justus was in the Bible, the roles he played, and his implications in the broader narrative of Scripture. Our journey through the Scriptures will address various intriguing questions and provide a clear path for those wondering, What Order Should I Read The Bible In?
Who Was Justus in the Bible?
Justus, a Companion in Faith
Why Was Jesus Also Called Justus?
While Jesus Christ himself was not called Justus, this confusion often arises from a misreading. Justus is actually a Roman surname used by several biblical figures as either their name or surname, indicating ‘just’ or ‘righteous’ in Latin. It was common for Jews of the Hellenistic period to adopt Roman names alongside their Hebrew ones.
How Many Justus Are There in the Bible?
The Bible mentions three individuals named Justus:
- Joseph called Barsabbas, also known as Justus: One of the candidates considered to replace Judas Iscariot among the twelve apostles (Acts 1:23).
- Jesus called Justus: A fellow worker of Paul, mentioned in Colossians 4:11 as one of the few Jewish believers who aided Paul during his ministry.
- Titius Justus: A Gentile believer who hosted Paul in his house in Corinth after Paul left the synagogue (Acts 18:7).
What Happened to Justus in the Bible?
The biblical texts do not provide extensive details about the lives of the men named Justus beyond their brief mentions. However, their presence in the narratives serves as a testament to their faith and support in the early Christian community.
The Meaning and Pronunciation of Justus
Justus Meaning in Hebrew
While ‘Justus’ itself is of Latin origin, its meaning—’just’ or ‘righteous’—is deeply rooted in biblical themes, often used to denote fairness and moral righteousness, qualities highly esteemed in both Jewish and Christian traditions.
Justus Pronunciation
Justus is pronounced as /ˈdʒʌstəs/, emphasizing a soft ‘J’ and ending with a sharp ‘s’.
Justus in the Biblical Texts
Justus in the Book of Acts
The Acts of the Apostles provides the most context about the individual named Justus. Their involvement at critical junctures of the early Church highlights their importance in the nascent Christian community, showcasing their commitment and righteousness.
Reflecting on Justus’s Role
Why Reflect on Justus?
Reflecting on figures like Justus helps modern readers understand the diverse and vibrant early Christian community. Each believer, though maybe briefly mentioned, played a role in spreading the Gospel and solidifying early Christian teachings.
Conclusion
In the grand tapestry of biblical narratives, even lesser-known figures like Justus play crucial roles. Their stories, though succinct, encourage believers to live righteously and support the faith community, resonating with the virtues they are named for. As we explore these figures, we not only learn about their lives but also enrich our understanding of the Bible’s order and teachings.