Clerk
Summary
A public official who kept records and maintained order, most notably the town clerk of Ephesus who quieted the riot against Paul.
☩Town Clerk of Ephesus
The town clerk mentioned in Acts held an important administrative position in the city government. During the riot incited by Demetrius the silversmith, this official calmed the crowd with a reasoned speech, reminding them that the courts were available for any legitimate grievances and warning that the assembly risked Roman intervention for its disorderly conduct.
☩General Usage
The term originally denoted learned men, particularly clergy. In church contexts, clerks served administrative functions, leading congregational responses and assisting ministers. The appointment of parish clerks properly belonged to the incumbent minister.
Related Verses1 mention
Acts· 1 verse
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Clerk," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. II (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.Philip Schaff and Johann Herzog (ed.), "Clerk," in The New Schaff-Herzog Encyclopedia of Religious Knowledge, vol. III (Funk and Wagnalls, 1908–1914).
- 3.Charles Buck, "Clerk," in A Theological Dictionary (Charles Buck (London), 1802).