Theophilus

Gender male Type Person Greek Θεόφιλος

Person to whom the books of Luke and Acts are addressed.

About Theophilus

A person to whom Luke wrote two books of the New Testament: the Gospel of Luke and Acts (Luke 1:3; Acts 1:1). The name "Theophilus" means either "lover of God" or "loved by God" in Greek. Because of this meaning, some people think Theophilus might not be a real person's name. They suggest it could be a title used to address all readers of these books.

However, this is unlikely for two reasons. First, the New Testament usually uses real names rather than titles when addressing people. Second, Luke calls Theophilus "most excellent," a term of respect used for important officials. For example, Paul used this same title when speaking to Festus, and both Claudius Lysias and Tertullus used it when addressing Felix (Acts 23:26; 24:2–3; 26:25).

While Theophilus was probably an important person in society, we do not know exactly what position he held.

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Key References

Luke 1:3

Therefore, having carefully investigated everything from the beginning, it seemed good also to me to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus,

Acts 1:1

In my first book, O Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus began to do and to teach,

All Scripture References (2)

Luke (1)
Luke 1:3

Therefore, having carefully investigated everything from the beginning, it seemed good also to me to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus,

Acts (1)
Acts 1:1

In my first book, O Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus began to do and to teach,