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G883 · Greek · New Testament
Ἀχαϊκός
Achaikos
Proper Name, masculine
Achaicus, belonging to Achaia

Definition

The Greek proper name Achaikos means "belonging to Achaia" or simply "the Achaian." He appears once in the New Testament (1 Corinthians 16:17), where Paul commends him as one of three men from Corinth — alongside Stephanas and Fortunatus — who visited Paul in Ephesus and refreshed his spirit.

Usage & Theological Significance

The brief mention of Achaicus carries significant weight. Paul says these three men "have supplied what was lacking from you" (1 Corinthians 16:17) — they brought news, support, and the personal presence of the Corinthian church to their apostle. The theology of embodied presence underlies this: words and letters cannot fully substitute for the ministry of personal fellowship. Achaicus — whose very name means he belonged to a particular place — came himself, crossing from Achaia to Ephesus. This small act of presence embodied the larger truth: the church is a body, and bodies show up for one another.

Key Bible Verses

1 Corinthians 16:17 I was glad when Stephanas, Fortunatus and Achaicus arrived, because they have supplied what was lacking from you.
1 Corinthians 16:18 For they refreshed my spirit and yours also. Such men deserve recognition.
Philemon 1:7 Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the Lord's people.
Romans 16:1 I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a deacon of the church in Cenchreae.
Proverbs 17:17 A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.

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