S. Michael Houdmann Supporter Got Questions Ministries

Very little is said in the Bible about Lydia. There is only one mention of her by name in Scripture-in Acts 16 we find the record of her conversion and her subsequent baptism (Acts 16:11-15). From ...

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August 20 2015 • 0 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report

Jeffrey Johnson Supporter

Who was Lydia in the Bible?

This woman and her household were among the first persons in Europe to accept Christianity as a result of the apostle Paul’s activity at Philippi in about 50 C.E. 

Lydia was a prominent, wealthy businesswoman in the New Testament, regarded as the first documented convert to Christianity in Europe. Her story is told in chapter 16 of the Book of Acts, where she meets the Apostle Paul and his companions in the city of Philippi. 

1: Occupation: Lydia was a "dealer in purple cloth," a luxury item in the ancient world. Purple dye was costly to produce, indicating she was a successful and independent woman of significant means.

2: Hometown: She was originally from Thyatira, a city in the ancient region of Lydia (modern-day Turkey), known for its dye and textile industry. The name "Lydia" may have been an ethnic designation meaning "the Lydian woman".

3: Location: She was living in Philippi, a Roman colony in Macedonia (modern-day Greece), when she encountered Paul. She was a "worshiper of God," a Gentile who was attracted to Judaism and its belief in one God, but had not fully converted.

Social Status: She was the head of her own household, which may have included her family, servants, and business associates. The fact that she owned a house and made decisions independently suggests she was likely a widow or a single woman of means.

Conclusion:

A Role Model​ For Us All:

Although she is a new believer, Lydia takes the initiative to show hospitality to Paul and his companions. (Acts 16:14, 15) As a result, she has the privilege of enjoying the company of these disciples. After Paul and Silas are released from prison, where do they go? Right back to the home of Lydia!​—Acts 16:40.

And like Lydia, we too should get to know others in the Christian Congregation - Hebrews 10:24 - ASV - "and let us consider one another to provoke unto love and good works."

7 days ago • 0 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report