Linus
A Christian believer in Rome who sent greetings to Timothy through the Apostle Paul during the apostle's second imprisonment.
Linus was a member of the early Christian community in Rome during the mid-1st century AD. He is mentioned exclusively in the New Testament within the final chapter of the Apostle Paul’s second letter to Timothy. His inclusion in this personal correspondence indicates he was a recognized and respected figure among the Roman believers who remained in contact with Paul during his final days of imprisonment.
While the biblical record is extremely brief, providing no details regarding his background, ethnicity, or specific role, Linus appears as one of a select few individuals who remained loyal to Paul. His presence alongside other named believers—Eubulus, Pudens, and Claudia—suggests he was part of a core group of leadership or high-standing members within the nascent Roman church.
Background and Family
The biblical record for Linus is limited to a single mention in 2 Timothy 4:21. Consequently, there is no scriptural information regarding his tribe, nation of origin, or family lineage. His name is of Greek origin (Linus), though he was residing in Rome at the time of his mention. In the context of the Berean Standard Bible, he is listed simply as one of the "brothers" who sent greetings to Timothy. There is no mention of his specific household or parents within the biblical text.
Major Life Events
Linus appears at a critical juncture in the history of the early church, specifically during the Apostle Paul’s second Roman imprisonment (c. 66–67 AD). While many of Paul's companions had departed for various reasons, Linus remained in the city and maintained communication with the apostle.
The primary event involving Linus is his participation in the collective greeting sent to Timothy. Paul writes, "Make every effort to come to me before winter. Eubulus sends you greetings, as do Pudens, Linus, Claudia, and all the brothers" (2 Timothy 4:21). This placement confirms that Linus was present in Rome and was likely known personally by Timothy, prompting Paul to include his name individually rather than grouping him under the general term "brothers."
Relationship to Other Biblical Figures
Linus’s primary relationship in the text is his association with the Apostle Paul and Timothy. He is grouped with Eubulus, Pudens, and Claudia, indicating a shared fellowship and mutual concern for Timothy’s well-being. The text does not explicitly state the nature of his relationship with these other three individuals, though tradition often associates them as key figures in the early Roman congregation. Beyond these names, the biblical dataset does not record any other interactions or family ties.
Spiritual Significance
In the scriptural narrative, Linus serves as a testimony to the enduring nature of the Roman church under duress. During a time of intense persecution under Nero, Linus did not abandon the faith or the imprisoned Paul. His inclusion in the final greetings of what is traditionally considered Paul’s last letter highlights his faithfulness and his recognition as a "brother" in the faith. While the Bible does not record his later acts or any specific office he may have held, his mention provides evidence of the established and functioning Christian network in the capital of the Roman Empire during the apostolic era.
Spiritual Significance
Linus’s primary theological and historical significance lies in his role as a witness to the continuity of the church in Rome during the final days of the Apostle Paul. His mention serves to humanize the early Christian experience, showing that even in the face of Paul's impending martyrdom, a community of believers remained active, supportive, and connected to the wider body of Christ represented by Timothy in Ephesus.
Additionally, Linus represents the transition from the first generation of apostles to the subsequent generation of church leaders. By being specifically named by Paul, he is identified as a reliable and constant figure in a period of great instability for the early church. His presence in the text provides a tangible link to the Roman congregation that would eventually become a central hub of Christian thought and administration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Linus mentioned in the Bible?
Linus is mentioned only once in the Bible, in 2 Timothy 4:21.
What does the name Linus mean?
The name is Greek (Λίνος) and was a common name in the Greco-Roman world, though the Bible does not provide a specific meaning in its context.
Was Linus a leader in the church?
The Bible does not explicitly state that Linus held an office such as elder or deacon; he is simply referred to as one of the brothers who sent greetings.
What happened to Linus after the death of Paul?
The biblical record does not provide any information regarding the life or death of Linus after the writing of 2 Timothy.
Connected Figures
Paul the Apostle
Associate and correspondent
Timothy
Recipient of his greetings
Claudia
Fellow believer in Rome
Pudens
Fellow believer in Rome
Eubulus
Fellow believer in Rome
Categories
Mentions by Book
- 2 Timothy1