Boy · Greek · New Testament

Theophilus

thee-OF-ih-lus · means “Friend of God”

Theophilus is a Greek name meaning 'friend of God' or 'loved by God.' In the New Testament, Theophilus is the recipient of the Gospel of Luke and the Book of Acts. His name represents a heart open to learning the certainty of the gospel truths.

“In my former book, Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus began to do and to teach”

The story behind the name

Theophilus was likely a high-ranking Roman official, addressed by Luke as 'most excellent,' who had recently heard the gospel. To strengthen his faith, Luke undertook a careful investigation of Jesus' life and the early church's history. These writings became the two largest books in the New Testament.

Luke's stated purpose was that Theophilus might know the certainty of the things he had been taught. Through this dedicated instruction, Theophilus was encouraged to stand firm in the truth amid a pagan society. His role shows the importance of intellectual integrity and systematic teaching in discipleship.

While Theophilus was a real person, his name also serves as an invitation to all believers. Every reader who seeks to understand and love God becomes a 'friend of God' who explores these holy pages. A boy named Theophilus is called to a life of wisdom, learning, and close friendship with the Lord.

Middle names that sing with Theophilus

Chosen for rhythm and meanings that speak to each other.

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