Welcome to Who’s Who in the Bible. Today, we’ll take a closer look at Aristarchus, a travelling companion of the Apostle Paul who is mentioned several times in the New Testament.
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Aristarchus does not take centre stage in the biblical narrative, but the glimpses we do have of him show a faithful supporter of Paul’s ministry, willing to share in the hardships of gospel work."
[Transition to scenes of Aristarchus travelling with Paul]
In Acts 19:29, we first meet Aristarchus as a Macedonian from Thessalonica who travelled with Paul during his missionary journeys. He is caught up in the riot at Ephesus, showing that accompanying Paul sometimes meant facing real danger."
[Transition to scenes of Aristarchus enduring hardship]
In Acts 27:2, Aristarchus is listed as one of Paul’s companions on the voyage to Rome — a journey that would end in shipwreck. Later, in Colossians 4:10, Paul refers to him as 'my fellow prisoner,' a phrase that speaks of his willingness to share in Paul’s sufferings for the sake of the gospel."
[Transition to scenes of Aristarchus in fellowship with Paul]
He is also mentioned in Philemon 1:24 as one of Paul’s 'fellow workers,' alongside Mark, Demas and Luke. While we are not told the details of his ministry, these brief mentions reveal a man committed to supporting Paul and serving the church in whatever capacity was needed."
[Closing reflection]
So what’s so special about Aristarchus? His life shows us the quiet strength of faithful companionship — standing alongside fellow believers through danger, hardship, and even imprisonment. He reminds us that gospel work is rarely done alone, and that loyal support is a ministry in itself."
To learn more about Aristarchus, you can read his brief appearances in Acts 19, Acts 27, Colossians 4, and Philemon 1."
[Closing screen: "Explore more characters of the Bible with Who’s Who in the Bible."]
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