Sopater
PeopleWhat is the meaning of Sopater in the Bible?
Sopater, a resident of Berea, traveled with Paul from Greece to Jerusalem alongside Gaius of Derbe, Aristarchus, Secundus, Tychicus, Trophimus, and Timothy. He is widely identified by scholars as the Sosipater mentioned in Romans 16:21 as a kinsman of Paul.
SIGNIFICANCE
Identifying Sopater clarifies the network of early Christian leaders and confirms the involvement of Gentile converts from Macedonia in supporting the Jerusalem collection, demonstrating the unity between Jewish and Gentile believers in the early church.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Genealogy & Community Insight: When reading, notice how the lineage and actions of Sopater reveal God's preservation of family clans and community records across generations.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Sopater in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Sopater clarify?
Scripture Passages Mentioned:
Romans 16:21
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Sopater." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/sopater/