### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek name **Kríspos**, represented by `{{G2921}}`, is of Latin origin and means "crisp." It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in scripture, referring to a specific individual named **Crispus**, a Corinthian who played a notable role in the early church.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, **Kríspos** is identified as "the chief ruler of the synagogue" `{{G752}}` in Corinth [[Acts 18:8]]. His story is significant because of his prominent position within the Jewish community. The account in Acts states that he "believed on the Lord" `{{G4100}}` `{{G2962}}` along with his entire **house** `{{G3624}}`. This event was pivotal, as it was followed by many other **Corinthians** `{{G2881}}` **hearing** `{{G191}}`, believing, and being baptized. Later, in [[1 Corinthians 1:14]], Paul specifically mentions that he personally **baptized** `{{G907}}` **Crispus** and **Gaius** `{{G1050}}`, making him one of the few individuals Paul baptized in that city.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context of the conversion of **Kríspos**:
* `{{G752}}` **archisynágōgos** (director of the synagogue services): This was the official title held by **Kríspos**, highlighting his status as a leader in the Corinthian synagogue before his conversion [[Acts 18:8]].
* `{{G4100}}` **pisteúō** (to have faith... to believe): This is the action that **Kríspos** and his household took upon hearing the message, signifying their commitment to the **Lord** [[Acts 18:8]].
* `{{G3624}}` **oîkos** (a dwelling... a family): The conversion was not limited to **Kríspos** alone but extended to his entire family or household, demonstrating the scope of the event [[Acts 18:8]].
* `{{G907}}` **baptízō** (to immerse... of the ordinance of Christian baptism): This marks the public act of commitment made by **Kríspos**, an act personally administered by the apostle Paul [[1 Corinthians 1:14]].
* `{{G1050}}` **Gáïos** (Gaius... a Christian): This individual is mentioned alongside **Kríspos** as one of the few people Paul personally baptized in Corinth [[1 Corinthians 1:14]].
### Theological Significance
The brief account of **Kríspos** carries significant weight for understanding the growth of the early church.
* **Conversion of Leadership:** The faith of a **chief ruler of the synagogue** `{{G752}}` demonstrates the gospel's power to transcend established religious hierarchies and influence community leaders [[Acts 18:8]].
* **Household Faith:** The fact that **Kríspos** believed "with all his **house**" `{{G3624}}` underscores the theme of family-wide conversion, showing how faith could permeate an entire household unit in the early Christian movement [[Acts 18:8]].
* **The Effect of Hearing:** The narrative explicitly links the belief of the **Corinthians** to the act of **hearing** `{{G191}}`, emphasizing that the proclamation of the message was the catalyst for their faith and baptism [[Acts 18:8]].
### Summary
In summary, **Kríspos** `{{G2921}}` is a pivotal figure in the Corinthian church. Though mentioned only twice, his story is a powerful example of conversion. As a prominent leader who turned to faith in the **Lord**, his decision, along with that of his household, appears to have sparked a wider movement among the **Corinthians**. His baptism by Paul further cements his importance as a foundational member of that community.
TRV