### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek name **Theóphilos**, represented by `{{G2321}}`, means **"friend of God."** This proper name identifies a Christian to whom two foundational New Testament books were addressed. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
`{{G2321}}` is the recipient of the historical accounts written by Luke. In the introduction to his Gospel, the author explains his intention to write an orderly narrative, addressing his work to the "**most excellent** Theophilus" [[Luke 1:3]]. This title, **krátistos** `{{G2903}}`, suggests that Theophilus was a person of high rank or honor. The book of Acts opens by referencing the "former **treatise**" made for **Theophilus** concerning all that **Jesus** `{{G2424}}` began to do and **teach** `{{G1321}}`, directly linking the two accounts and confirming him as the intended audience for both [[Acts 1:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context of the writings addressed to Theophilus:
* `{{G2903}}` **krátistos** (most excellent (noble)): A title of honor used to address Theophilus, indicating his respected status [[Luke 1:3]].
* `{{G1125}}` **gráphō** (to write): Describes the author's action of creating a written record for Theophilus, undertaken after gaining a "perfect understanding" of the events [[Luke 1:3]].
* `{{G3056}}` **lógos** (treatise, word): This term is used to describe the first account (the Gospel of Luke) written for Theophilus, which detailed the works of Jesus [[Acts 1:1]].
* `{{G3877}}` **parakolouthéō** (fully know, have understanding): This conveys the author's diligence in tracing out the facts, giving him the qualification to write an authoritative account to Theophilus [[Luke 1:3]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{G2321}}` is significant as it frames the purpose and scope of Luke's writings.
* **An Orderly Account:** The author explicitly states his purpose is to **write** `{{G1125}}` in **order** `{{G2517}}` to Theophilus, providing a carefully researched and structured narrative so that he might know the certainty of the things he had been taught [[Luke 1:3]].
* **A Continuous Narrative:** The opening of Acts connects directly to the "former **treatise**" `{{G3056}}` sent to Theophilus, which covered what **Jesus** `{{G2424}}` **began** `{{G756}}` to **do** `{{G4160}}` and **teach** `{{G1321}}`. This establishes the books of Luke and Acts as a single, two-part work showing the continuation of Christ's mission.
* **A Recipient of Honor:** By addressing the gospel accounts to the "**most excellent** Theophilus" [[Luke 1:3]], the author demonstrates that the message of Christ is intended for individuals of all social standing, worthy of the most respectful and careful presentation.
### Summary
In summary, **Theóphilos** `{{G2321}}` is more than just a name; he is the designated recipient of a significant portion of the New Testament. Though mentioned only twice, his presence as the audience for Luke and Acts highlights the author's commitment to delivering a faithful, orderly, and historically grounded account of the life of **Jesus** `{{G2424}}` and the birth of the church. The address to this "friend of God" underscores the value and certainty of the written testimony being provided.
TRV