### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Dēmḗtrios**, represented by `{{G1216}}`, is the name of two different men mentioned in the Bible: an Ephesian and a Christian. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses**. The name identifies both a craftsman whose livelihood was rooted in idol worship and a follower of Christ known for his good reputation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G1216}}` is used to identify two contrasting figures. The first is **Demetrius** of Ephesus, a **silversmith** `{{G695}}` who made **silver** `{{G693}}` **shrines** `{{G3485}}` for the goddess **Diana** `{{G735}}`. His business brought significant **gain** `{{G2039}}` to the local **craftsmen** `{{G5079}}` [[Acts 19:24]]. This Demetrius is later mentioned as having a legal matter, with the suggestion that he and his associates should **implead** `{{G1458}}` one another before the **deputies** `{{G446}}` [[Acts 19:38]]. In contrast, the second **Demetrius** is a Christian who "hath good **report**" `{{G3140}}` not only from all men but also from "the **truth** `{{G225}}` itself" [[3 John 1:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illuminate the context of these two individuals:
* `{{G695}}` **argyrokópos** (silversmith): This term, meaning a "worker of silver," explicitly defines the profession of the first Demetrius, whose work was a source of conflict [[Acts 19:24]].
* `{{G2039}}` **ergasía** (gain, craft): This word highlights the motivation of the Ephesian craftsmen. Their wealth was derived from this **craft**, and the perceived threat to their financial **gain** fueled the uproar [[Acts 19:24-25]].
* `{{G3140}}` **martyréō** (to be a witness, testify): In sharp contrast, this word describes the character of the second Demetrius, who has a "good **report**" [[3 John 1:12]]. It signifies bearing a positive witness, a concept also applied to the prophets who **testify** of Jesus [[Acts 10:43]].
* `{{G225}}` **alḗtheia** (truth): The Christian Demetrius is not just well-regarded by people, but his character is affirmed by the **truth** itself [[3 John 1:12]]. This connects him to a core spiritual reality, as Jesus is called "the **truth**" [[John 14:6]].
### Theological Significance
The two men named `{{G1216}}` serve as contrasting examples of character and priority.
* **A Life of Worldly Craft:** The first Demetrius represents a life centered on material profit derived from idolatry. His identity is tied to his profession as a **craftsman** `{{G5079}}` of shrines for **Diana** `{{G735}}`, and his actions are driven by a desire to protect his financial **gain** `{{G2039}}` [[Acts 19:24-25]].
* **A Life of Good Report:** The second Demetrius exemplifies a life approved by the faithful community and by God. He receives a good **report** `{{G3140}}`, which is a form of positive **testimony** `{{G3141}}`. His integrity is so profound that it is said to be witnessed by "the **truth** `{{G225}}` itself" [[3 John 1:12]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1216}}` is a name carried by two very different men in scripture, highlighting a fundamental contrast in values. One Demetrius is a **silversmith** whose economic interests, tied to the worship of **Diana** `{{G735}}`, place him in opposition to the gospel. The other Demetrius is a Christian whose life warrants a good **report** `{{G3140}}` from both his peers and the very standard of **truth** `{{G225}}`. The name thus illustrates the divergence between a life focused on earthly gain and one that earns a credible witness within the faith.
TRV