### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek name **Ioûstos**, represented by `{{G2459}}`, is of Latin origin and means **"just"**. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible, used as a personal name for three different Christian men who are mentioned for their roles and character in the early church.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name **Ioûstos** `{{G2459}}` identifies three distinct individuals in the New Testament. The first was Joseph Barsabas, who was **surnamed** `{{G1941}}` Justus and was one of the **two** `{{G1417}}` candidates **appointed** `{{G2476}}` to replace Judas among the apostles [[Acts 1:23]]. The second was a man in Corinth who **worshipped** `{{G4576}}` **God** `{{G2316}}`; Paul **entered** `{{G2064}}` his **house** `{{G3614}}` after departing from the **synagogue** `{{G4864}}` [[Acts 18:7]]. The third Justus was a Jewish Christian also **called** `{{G3004}}` **Jesus** `{{G2424}}` who was a **fellowworker** `{{G4904}}` with Paul and a **comfort** `{{G3931}}` to him in his ministry [[Colossians 4:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the individuals named Justus:
* `{{G1941}}` **epikaléomai** (to entitle; by implication, to invoke): This word is used to show that Joseph Barsabas was also **surnamed** Justus, indicating a name given to denote character or identity [[Acts 1:23]].
* `{{G4576}}` **sébomai** (to revere, i.e. adore): This describes the Justus in Corinth as a man who **worshipped** God, highlighting his devout nature before Paul came to his house [[Acts 18:7]].
* `{{G4904}}` **synergós** (a co-laborer, i.e. coadjutor): The Justus mentioned in Colossians is described as one of Paul's **fellowworkers** unto the kingdom of God, emphasizing his active partnership in the gospel [[Colossians 4:11]].
* `{{G3931}}` **parēgoría** (an address alongside, i.e. (specially), consolation): This unique term, used only once, describes the effect Justus had on Paul, showing that he had **been** `{{G1096}}` a source of **comfort** [[Colossians 4:11]].
### Theological Significance
The occurrences of `{{G2459}}` illustrate key virtues in the early Christian community:
* **Faithful Service:** Joseph Barsabas Justus was deemed worthy to be **appointed** `{{G2476}}` as a candidate for the apostolate, signifying a life of recognized faithfulness [[Acts 1:23]].
* **Hospitality and Worship:** The Justus of Corinth provided his **house** `{{G3614}}` for Paul's ministry. His devotion as one who **worshipped** `{{G4576}}` God positioned him to support the gospel's spread when it moved out of the synagogue [[Acts 18:7]].
* **Encouraging Partnership:** The Justus in Colossians was one of the **only** `{{G3441}}` Jewish Christians with Paul who was a **comfort** `{{G3931}}` and **fellowworker** `{{G4904}}` for the **kingdom** `{{G932}}` of God, underscoring the vital role of loyal companionship in ministry.
### Summary
In summary, while **Ioûstos** `{{G2459}}` is a proper name and not a theological term, the three men who bore this name, meaning **"just,"** exemplify the character of the righteous. From being a candidate for apostleship to offering a home for the ministry and providing comfort to fellow believers, each Justus demonstrates a different facet of faithful living within the body of Christ. Their brief mentions provide a powerful testament to the importance of service, devotion, and fellowship in the early church.
TRV