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G2494 · Greek · New Testament
Ζηνᾶς
Zenas
Proper Noun
gift of Zeus / Zenas

Definition

Zenas (G2494) is a shortened form of Zenodoros ('gift of Zeus') — a Greek name carried by the man Paul calls 'the lawyer' (nomikos) in Titus 3:13. Paul instructs Titus to 'do your best to speed Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their way; see that they lack nothing.' This brief mention reveals a network of traveling Christian workers in the early church — legal professionals who placed their skills in service of the gospel.

Usage & Theological Significance

The brief appearance of Zenas in the NT illuminates the breadth of early church ministry. A lawyer by profession, yet fully invested in the mission of the Gospel. He travels with Apollos — the eloquent Alexandrian preacher (Acts 18:24-28) — carrying correspondence and likely the letter to Titus itself. Paul's instruction to care for Zenas's needs reflects the hospitality ethic of the early church (3 John 5-8) and the principle that those who serve the Gospel deserve support (1 Cor 9:14). God uses every vocation — including legal expertise — in His mission.

Key Bible Verses

Titus 3:13 Do your best to speed Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their way; see that they lack nothing.
Acts 18:24 Now a Jew named Apollos, a native of Alexandria, came to Ephesus. He was an eloquent man, competent in the Scriptures.
3 John 5-6 Beloved, it is a faithful thing you do in all your efforts for these brothers, strangers as they were, who testified to your love before the church.
1 Corinthians 9:14 The Lord commanded that those who proclaim the gospel should get their living by the gospel.
Romans 16:1-2 I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a servant of the church at Cenchreae, that you may welcome her in the Lord.

Related Words

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