Zenas
Summary
A Christian believer described as a lawyer whom Paul commended to Titus for hospitality and support during his journey.
☩Identity and Background
Zenas is mentioned only in Titus 3:13, where Paul urges Titus to help set him forward on his journey along with Apollos. His name is a contracted form of Zenodorus, meaning 'gift of Zeus.' He is described as 'the lawyer,' which likely indicates he was a Jewish scribe learned in the Mosaic law before his conversion to Christianity, rather than a Roman jurisconsult. His association with Apollos, whose preaching had a Jewish emphasis, supports this understanding.
☩Ministry and Paul's Instructions
Zenas and Apollos appear to have been traveling preachers who had come to Crete and were preparing to continue their journey elsewhere. Paul instructed Titus to 'set them forward on their journey diligently, that nothing be wanting unto them,' demonstrating Paul's characteristic concern for fellow workers in the gospel. This request reflects the early church's practice of providing for itinerant ministers as they traveled to spread the faith.
Related Verses1 mention
Titus· 1 verse
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Zenas," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. X (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.James Orr (ed.), "Zenas," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. V (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).
- 3.James Hastings (ed.), "Zenas," in Dictionary of the Apostolic Church, vol. II (T. & T. Clark, 1915–1918).