Crispus

Overview

• Testament: New
• Role: Chief ruler of the synagogue at Corinth
• Family: Believed “with all his house”
• Key Books: Acts, 1 Corinthians

Biography

Crispus was the chief ruler of the synagogue in Corinth when Paul reasoned there sabbath by sabbath. When the Jews opposed and blasphemed, Paul turned to the Gentiles, yet Crispus himself believed on the Lord together with all his household. He was among the very few whom Paul personally baptized, a fact Paul later recalled to the Corinthians to show that he had not baptized in his own name.

Key Events

• Crispus believes on the Lord — the synagogue ruler and his whole house come to faith and many Corinthians follow (Acts 18:8).

Relationships

• Paul (Apostle) — who baptized him personally
• Gaius — also baptized by Paul at Corinth

Important Verses

• Acts 18:8 — Crispus believed on the Lord with all his house, and was baptized.
• 1 Corinthians 1:14 — Paul thanks God he baptized none but Crispus and Gaius.

Cross-References

• Mentioned in: Acts, 1 Corinthians

Notes

The conversion of a synagogue ruler in Corinth marked a significant breakthrough for the gospel among the city’s Jews and God-fearers.