Crispus
Crispus was the ruler of the synagogue in Corinth who believed in the Lord along with his entire household after hearing Paul's teaching, one of the most significant conversions recorded during Paul's eighteen months in that city. As a synagogue ruler, his conversion carried real social weight and likely provoked the very Jewish opposition that led to Paul being brought before the proconsul Gallio shortly after. Paul later recalls in his letter to the Corinthians that he personally baptized Crispus, one of only a few individuals he names having baptized directly, underscoring how memorable and significant this particular conversion was to the founding of the Corinthian church.
Biography
- Occupation
- Ruler of the synagogue at Corinth
- Era
- New Testament
- Nationality
- Jewish
Did You Know?
Crispus's successor as synagogue ruler, Sosthenes, was later beaten before Gallio - leading a Corinthian synagogue during Paul's visit was a hazardous career.
Paul could remember baptizing only Crispus, Gaius, and Stephanas's household at Corinth - Crispus made a short and select list.
His conversion 'with all his house' came immediately before God told Paul in a vision, 'I have much people in this city' - the ruler's faith was the firstfruits.
Key Chapters
Key Passages
Crispus Believes with His Household
Acts 18:8
The conversion of a synagogue ruler and his whole household marks a significant breakthrough for Paul's ministry in Corinth.
8nd Crispus, the chief ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his house; and many of the Corinthians hearing believed, and were baptized.
Paul Recalls Baptizing Crispus
1 Corinthians 1:14
Paul's specific memory of baptizing Crispus, years later, shows how notable his conversion had been.
14 thank God that I baptized none of you, but Crispus and Gaius;