### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek name **Gáïos**, represented by `{{G1050}}`, is of Latin origin and identifies a **Christian** man named **Gaius**. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible. The name is associated with several individuals who were notable for their service, hospitality, and companionship with the apostles.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name **Gaius** appears in several distinct contexts. In Corinth, **Gaius** was one of the few individuals Paul personally baptized `{{G907}}` [[1 Corinthians 1:14]]. Paul later describes a **Gaius** as his **host** `{{G3581}}` and a host to the "whole church" `{{G1577}}`, sending greetings from him [[Romans 16:23]]. Another **Gaius**, a man of Macedonia `{{G3110}}`, is identified as one of Paul's **companions in travel** `{{G4898}}` who was caught `{{G4884}}` by a mob and rushed into the **theatre** `{{G2302}}` during a riot [[Acts 19:29]]. A different traveling companion, **Gaius** of Derbe `{{G1190}}`, is listed among those who accompanied Paul into **Asia** `{{G773}}` [[Acts 20:4]]. Finally, the elder addresses his third epistle to "the wellbeloved `{{G27}}` **Gaius**," a man whom he loves `{{G25}}` in the **truth** `{{G225}}` [[3 John 1:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the roles and character of the men named **Gaius**:
* `{{G3581}}` **xénos** (host): This term, also meaning "stranger," is used to describe the hospitality of **Gaius**, who served as a **host** not only for Paul but for the entire **church** `{{G1577}}` [[Romans 16:23]].
* `{{G4898}}` **synékdēmos** (companion in travel): This word defines the relationship **Gaius** of Macedonia had with Paul, highlighting their partnership in missionary work and shared dangers [[Acts 19:29]].
* `{{G27}}` **agapētós** (beloved): This term of endearment is used by the elder John, who addresses his letter to "the wellbeloved `{{G27}}` **Gaius**," indicating a deep and affectionate personal relationship founded in the truth [[3 John 1:1]].
### Theological Significance
The scriptural references to `{{G1050}}` highlight key aspects of early Christian life and service.
* **Hospitality and Support:** **Gaius** is presented as a model of Christian hospitality, acting as a **host** `{{G3581}}` for the "whole church" `{{G1577}}` [[Romans 16:23]]. This demonstrates the crucial role of believers in supporting ministers and the wider Christian community.
* **Partnership in the Gospel:** As one of Paul's **companions in travel** `{{G4898}}`, **Gaius** shared in the risks of ministry, as seen when he was caught `{{G4884}}` by the Ephesian mob [[Acts 19:29]]. This shows a commitment to spreading the gospel despite persecution.
* **Foundational Faith:** The **Gaius** in Corinth was personally baptized `{{G907}}` by Paul, marking him as a foundational member of that community [[1 Corinthians 1:14]].
* **Walking in Truth:** The letter addressed to **Gaius** commends him for his faithfulness, with the elder expressing love `{{G25}}` for him "in the **truth** `{{G225}}`" [[3 John 1:1]], emphasizing a life aligned with gospel teaching.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{G1050}}` is a proper name, the individuals named **Gaius** collectively model important Christian virtues. They are shown to be steadfast companions, generous hosts, and beloved brothers in the faith. Though the references are brief, they provide a composite picture of a faithful Christian actively involved in the life of the early church, from offering hospitality [[Romans 16:23]] to enduring persecution [[Acts 19:29]] and being cherished for his commitment to the truth [[3 John 1:1]].
TRV