Julius
Summary
The Roman centurion of the Augustan cohort who escorted Paul as a prisoner from Caesarea to Rome, treating him with kindness and consideration.
☩Character and Service
Julius was a centurion of the Augustan cohort (or band) who was given charge of conducting Paul and other prisoners to Rome. Like all centurions mentioned in the New Testament, Julius displayed an estimable character. He treated Paul courteously, allowing him liberty to visit friends at Sidon to refresh himself during the voyage. Though he initially disregarded Paul's advice about where to winter the ship, he later deferred to Paul's recommendation about cutting away the boat during the storm.
☩Protecting Paul
When the ship was wrecked on Malta, the soldiers planned to kill the prisoners to prevent any from escaping. However, Julius intervened to save Paul's life, refusing to allow the execution. This action demonstrates how God raised up friends for His servant even among those who might have been his enemies. Upon arriving in Rome, Julius handed his prisoner over to the captain of the guard.
See Also
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Julius," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. IV (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.Andrew Robert Fausset, "Julia," in The Englishman's Critical and Expository Bible Cyclopædia (Hodder & Stoughton, 1878).
- 3.George Morrish, "Julius," in Morrish's Concise Bible Dictionary (George Morrish, 1898).
- 4.James Hastings (ed.), "Julius," in Dictionary of the Apostolic Church, vol. I (T. & T. Clark, 1915–1918).