### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek name **Phílippos**, represented by `{{G5376}}`, means "fond of horses." It appears **38 times** across **37 unique verses** in the New Testament. The name is used to identify several distinct individuals who play roles as an apostle, an evangelist, and members of the ruling Herodian family, grounding the biblical narrative in specific historical contexts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name `{{G5376}}` is assigned to multiple figures in the biblical narrative. Philip the Apostle is called by Jesus to follow him [[John 1:43]] and is listed among the twelve disciples [[Matthew 10:3]]. He is from Bethsaida [[John 1:44]] and brings Nathanael to Jesus [[John 1:45]]. Another key figure is Philip the Evangelist, one of the seven chosen to serve in the early church [[Acts 6:5]]. He preaches Christ in Samaria [[Acts 8:5]] and is guided by the Spirit to teach and baptize an Ethiopian eunuch [[Acts 8:29-38]]. The name also refers to two of Herod's sons: Philip the tetrarch of Ituraea [[Luke 3:1]] and Philip, the first husband of Herodias [[Matthew 14:3]]. Finally, the name forms part of the location Caesarea Philippi [[Matthew 16:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the roles of the individuals named Philip:
* `{{G3101}}` **mathētḗs** (a learner, i.e. pupil:--disciple): This term defines the role of Philip the Apostle, who was chosen as one of Jesus' followers [[Matthew 16:13]].
* `{{G2099}}` **euangelistḗs** (a preacher of the gospel:--evangelist): This title is explicitly given to Philip, one of the seven, identifying his primary ministry of spreading the gospel [[Acts 21:8]].
* `{{G2097}}` **euangelízō** (to announce good news ("evangelize") especially the gospel...): This verb describes the action of Philip the evangelist, who preached Jesus in Samaria and to the cities he passed through ([[Acts 8:35]], [[Acts 8:40]]).
* `{{G5075}}` **tetrarchéō** (to be a tetrarch:--(be) tetrarch): This word clarifies the political position of Philip the tetrarch, son of Herod, who ruled a specific region during the time of John the Baptist [[Luke 3:1]].
* `{{G966}}` **Bēthsaïdá** (fishing-house; Bethsaida, a place in Palestine:--Bethsaida): This is identified as the hometown of Philip the Apostle, connecting him geographically with Andrew and Peter [[John 1:44]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{G5376}}` carries significant weight in understanding the development of the early church and the nature of discipleship.
* **The Call to Discipleship:** The story of Philip the Apostle begins with Jesus' simple command, "Follow me" [[John 1:43]]. Philip's immediate response and his subsequent action of finding Nathanael demonstrates the nature of discipleship as both a personal calling and a catalyst for inviting others [[John 1:45]].
* **Expansion of the Gospel:** Philip the Evangelist plays a crucial role in the expansion of the early church. His ministry in Samaria [[Acts 8:5]] and his divinely-guided encounter with the Ethiopian eunuch show the gospel moving beyond its Jewish origins to other peoples and regions [[Acts 8:26]].
* **Seeking Divine Revelation:** The apostle Philip's earnest request, "Lord, shew us the Father" [[John 14:8]], prompts a profound declaration from Jesus about His unity with the Father, revealing a key theological truth through a disciple's honest questioning [[John 14:9]].
* **Historical Grounding:** The inclusion of figures like Philip the tetrarch [[Luke 3:1]] and Herod's brother Philip [[Mark 6:17]] places the events of the New Testament within a tangible historical and political framework.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5376}}` **Phílippos** is more than just a common name within the New Testament. It is attached to figures who exemplify the core themes of discipleship, evangelism, and the historical reality of the gospel's emergence. Through the actions and words of the apostle, the evangelist, and the mention of the rulers, the name connects the personal call to follow Christ with the outward mission to spread His message to the world.
TRV