Boy · Latin · New Testament

Crispus

Q: Is Crispus a biblical name?

Yes. Crispus appears in the New Testament. During his second missionary journey, the apostle Paul arrived in Corinth and began preaching in the local synagogue. He faced strong opposition from many of the leaders, yet he remained determined to share the gospel. It was in this tense atmosphere that Crispus, the ruler of the synagogue, made a public stand for Christ.

KRIS-pus · means “Curly-haired”

Crispus is a Latin name meaning 'curly-haired.' In the New Testament, Crispus was the leader of the Jewish synagogue in Corinth who believed in the Lord along with his entire household. His conversion was a pivotal moment in the growth of the early Corinthian church under Paul's ministry.

Faith Courage Devotion

“Crispus, the synagogue leader, and his entire household believed in the Lord; and many of the Corinthians who heard Paul believed and were baptized.”
— Acts 18:8 (NIV)

The story behind the name

During his second missionary journey, the apostle Paul arrived in Corinth and began preaching in the local synagogue. He faced strong opposition from many of the leaders, yet he remained determined to share the gospel. It was in this tense atmosphere that Crispus, the ruler of the synagogue, made a public stand for Christ.

Crispus did not walk this path of faith alone. Acts records that his entire household believed in the Lord with him, demonstrating the powerful influence of a father's spiritual leadership. This decision sent shockwaves through Corinth, prompting many others to hear, believe, and be baptized.

As a key leader who risked his position for the gospel, Crispus was personally baptized by Paul, a rare honor mentioned in the letter of First Corinthians. His legacy is one of boldness and devotion, showing how one leader's faith can inspire a community. A boy named Crispus carries a name of spiritual influence.

Spiritual Encouragement

If you find comfort in Crispus’s story, you may also appreciate our prayer resource:

Read A Prayer for Courage →

A blessing to pray over Crispus

Father, grant this child the courage to lead others toward Your truth, even in the face of opposition. May his faith guide his family and friends, and may his life be a beacon of Your grace. Amen.