“Erastus, the city treasurer, and our brother Quartus, greet you” (Romans 16:23 ESV).
Writing from Corinth, the apostle Paul closed his letter to the believers in Rome by naming several associates who sent their greetings. Among them was Erastus, the city treasurer. Paul’s mention of his civic position showed that Erastus was a prominent figure in Corinth’s administration.
In 2013, I visited the ruins of Corinth and saw an inscription in the city’s pavement stones: “Erastus, in return for his aedileship, laid this pavement at his own expense.” The inscription commemorated a wealthy civic official who had financed the paving of a public area. An aedile was responsible for matters involving streets, buildings, markets, finances, and civic administration.
Was this the same Erastus Paul mentioned? We cannot know with certainty, but the evidence is compelling. The name, city, approximate period, and comparable civic position all fit remarkably well. Standing over that pavement, I stooped down and traced the inscription with my finger. It reminded me that the Bible describes real people who lived in real places and participated in real events. Archaeology repeatedly confirms that Scripture is rooted in history.
We may be tempted to skim over the long lists of names in Scripture, but every name represents a life touched by God. Erastus reminds us that the gospel reached into every level of Corinthian society, even into city government. God still places believers in neighborhoods, schools, businesses, churches, and public offices so that Christ may be made known.
Let us not overlook the people God has placed around us or underestimate how deeply the gospel can transform a city. When we read Scripture, let us slow down and remember: don’t skip the names.
PRAYER: Dear Father, thank You that Your Word is true and trustworthy. Help us value every person You have called and faithfully carry the gospel into every place You send us. In Jesus’ name, amen.