Θεόφιλος (Theophilos)
Theophilos
Theophilus
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The name Theophilos means "friend of God" or "lover of God," combining the Greek words for God and friend. It appears only twice in the New Testament, serving as the dedication address for both the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles (Luke 1:3; Acts 1:1). This personal salutation suggests the author intended to provide a reliable and orderly account specifically for this individual.
While the name itself carries a theological weight, identifying the recipient as a beloved companion of God, historical sources note that Theophilus was likely a person of some standing, possibly of equestrian rank. By addressing his work to him, Luke frames his narrative not just as abstract theology, but as a documented history intended for a trusted friend who values truth and order.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Theophilos carries a gentle meaning: friend of God or lover of God. When Luke addresses his Gospel and Acts to this person, he is not just writing to a stranger. He is sharing a careful, orderly account with someone who values truth and relationship. This reminds us that our faith is not abstract. It is grounded in real events and shared with those we trust.
For you, this connection between history and friendship offers comfort. God invites you into a story where details matter. He cares about the accuracy of what happened so that your belief rests on solid ground. You are invited to see yourself as part of this ongoing narrative, loved by God and connected to others in the church.
Whether you read these words today or centuries ago, the invitation remains open. To be a friend of God is to walk with Him in honesty and hope. This relationship does not demand perfection but offers grace. May you find peace in knowing that your life is held within this faithful story.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Theophilus,2×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- Θεόφιλε,2×
Key Verses
-
Luke 1:3
it seemed good to me also, having traced the course of all things accurately from the first, to write to you in order, most excellent Theophilus;
This verse establishes the personal dedication, showing Luke’s intent to provide an orderly account specifically for Theophilus.
-
Acts 1:1
The first book I wrote, Theophilus, concerned all that Jesus began both to do and to teach,
Here the author refers back to his first book, linking the Gospel and Acts as a continuous narrative for the same recipient.