By Caroline Liberatore (Rated G)
The subtle presence of Aristarchus of Thessalonica can be traced in New Testament scripture. Although he is not mentioned to great extent, it is known that he was considered an apostle – one of the Seventy – and a companion of Paul. Aristarchus first appears in the book of Acts, as a companion of Paul’s during his ministry in Ephesus. Their work during this time contradicted much of the pervasive culture in Ephesus, which honored and worshiped the goddess Artemis. The apostles – namely, Aristarchus, Paul, and Gaius – opposed this idea, asserting that this was idol worship and that there was only one God through Jesus Christ. As a result of these teachings, they were persecuted.
While many of the details of Aristarchus’s history are fuzzy, it is certain that he was a comforting and faithful companion of Paul during his ministry. He was also a prisoner with Paul, as specified in Colossians 4:10. This commitment to the cause of the gospel was evident to his last days, as, according to Church tradition, he became a martyr during the reign of Nero.
May we, as Aristarchus, be committed to the worship and honor of Christ Jesus, despite any degree of adversity.
Sources:
biblegateway.com/resources/encyclopedia-of-the-bible/Aristarchus
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