Who was Quartus in the Bible?
Quartus is a relatively obscure figure mentioned in the New Testament, specifically in Romans 16:23. Despite the brevity of his mention, his inclusion in the Scriptures provides significant insights into the early Christian community and the value of every believer in the body of Christ. This article explores who Quartus was, the context of his mention, and the lessons modern Christians can draw from his example.
Quartus: A Brief Biblical Mention
A Believer in the Early Church
Quartus is mentioned in Romans 16:23, where Paul writes, “Gaius, whose hospitality I and the whole church here enjoy, sends you his greetings. Erastus, who is the city’s director of public works, and our brother Quartus send you their greetings.” The term “brother” here, translated from the Greek word “ἀδελφός” (adelphos), indicates that Quartus was a fellow believer and part of the Christian community in Rome.
The Context of His Mention
The mention of Quartus occurs in the closing greetings of Paul’s letter to the Romans. These greetings highlight the unity and fellowship among early Christians, regardless of their social status or the extent of their involvement in the church. Alongside notable figures like Gaius and Erastus, Quartus’s inclusion signifies that every member of the community was valued and important.
Lessons for the Modern Christian
The Value of Every Believer
The brief mention of Quartus in the Bible teaches modern Christians about the importance of every individual in the body of Christ. While some members of the early church, like Paul and Peter, are well-known for their contributions, others, like Quartus, played quieter but equally crucial roles. This underscores the biblical principle that every believer, regardless of their visibility or prominence, is valuable and integral to the church’s mission.
Humility and Service
Quartus’s mention also serves as a reminder of the humble service that characterized many early Christians. His lack of a detailed biography in the Scriptures suggests that his contributions were humble yet significant enough to warrant Paul’s recognition. Modern Christians are encouraged to serve faithfully, even if their efforts go unnoticed by many, knowing that their labor is seen and valued by God.
Connection to a Loving God
Unity in Diversity
The early Christian community, as reflected in Romans 16, was diverse, comprising individuals from various social and economic backgrounds. Quartus’s inclusion alongside Gaius and Erastus illustrates the unity that transcended these differences, brought about by their shared faith in Christ. This unity in diversity is a testament to the love of God that binds believers together.
God’s Inclusive Love
God’s love is inclusive, reaching out to every individual regardless of their status or background. Quartus, though not a prominent figure, was included in the greetings, showing that God’s love and the fellowship of believers encompass everyone. This inclusivity should inspire modern Christians to embrace and value each other, reflecting God’s love in their communities.
Connection to Jesus Christ
Following Christ’s Example
Jesus Christ valued and interacted with individuals from all walks of life, from the well-known to the obscure. Quartus’s mention in Romans reflects this aspect of Christ’s ministry, where every person is significant. Modern Christians are called to follow Christ’s example by recognizing and honoring the contributions of all members within the church.
The Body of Christ
The concept of the church as the body of Christ, as described in 1 Corinthians 12:12-27, is evident in the inclusion of Quartus. Each believer is a part of this body, and every part is essential. Quartus’s greeting reminds Christians today that they are part of a larger whole, working together to fulfill God’s purposes.
Quartus in Biblical Context
The Greek Name
The name Quartus (Κούαρτος) means “fourth” in Latin, which might indicate his position in a family or community. This detail, though minor, adds to the understanding of the cultural and societal context of the early church.
The Biblical Reference
Romans 16:23 is the sole biblical reference to Quartus. Despite the brevity of his mention, his inclusion highlights the interconnectedness and mutual support among early Christians, serving as a model for modern believers.
Conclusion
Quartus, though briefly mentioned in the Bible, represents the countless faithful believers who have contributed to the church throughout history. His inclusion in Paul’s greetings in Romans 16:23 underscores the value of every individual in the body of Christ, the importance of humble service, and the unity brought about by God’s love. Modern Christians can draw inspiration from Quartus’s example, striving to serve faithfully and valuing each member of their community, thereby reflecting the inclusive and loving nature of God and Jesus Christ.