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G1216 · Greek · New Testament
Δημήτριος
Dēmētrios
Proper noun, masculine
Demetrius

Definition

The name Dēmētrios is a Greek name meaning 'belonging to Demeter' (the Greek goddess of harvest). Two men named Demetrius appear in the New Testament: a silversmith in Ephesus who instigated a riot against Paul, and a disciple commended by John.

Usage & Theological Significance

The contrast between the two Demetriuses in the New Testament is striking. Demetrius the silversmith (Acts 19) represents worldly religion protecting economic interests — his riot against Paul was motivated by lost income from idol-making, not genuine theological concern. Demetrius commended by John (3 John 1:12) represents the opposite: a man with a good testimony from everyone, including 'the truth itself.' These two men illustrate that the same name can belong to someone driven by earthly gain or heavenly commendation.

Key Bible Verses

Acts 19:24 Demetrius, a silversmith, who made silver shrines of Artemis, brought no little business to the craftsmen.
Acts 19:28 When they heard this they were enraged and were crying out, 'Great is Artemis of the Ephesians!'
3 John 1:12 Demetrius has received a good testimony from everyone, and from the truth itself. We also add our testimony.
Acts 19:37 For you have brought these men here who are neither sacrilegious nor blasphemers of our goddess.
2 Corinthians 5:10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may receive what is due for what he has done.

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External Resources

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