“Paul, called to be an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and our brother Sosthenes,” 1 Corinthians 1:1
On a recent visit to Corinth, we had the privilege of seeing the “court” or Bema where people were brought before the proconsul to be tried for crimes against the government. Gallio, the proconsul, was known as a fair, calm leader, a brother of the philosopher, Seneca. He didn’t care in the least who the people worshiped. There were many “gods” in Corinth to choose from and he was ambivalent of them all. In fact, there were many temples in the city to choose from!
On Paul’s first missionary journey, he met Aquila and Priscilla in Corinth and was able to teach and reason with the Jews and Greeks in the synagogue and the marketplace (Agora). During this time, Crispus the ruler of the synagogue became a Christian, and his entire household believed and were baptized. Paul stayed there a year and a half and taught the people and many believed.
Most Bible scholars believe Crispus would have lost his job as ruler and was replaced by Sosthenes. You can imagine the Jewish leaders were not happy with the influence Paul was having on the people. “This man, is persuading the people to worship God in ways contrary to the law.” Acts 18:13. The Jews claimed Paul was advocating a religion not recognized by Roman law or Judaism. They made a united attack on Paul and brought him before the court. “Just as Paul was about to speak, Gallio said to the Jews, ‘If you Jews were making a complaint about some misdemeanor or serious crime, it would be reasonable for me to listen to you, But since it involves questions about words and name and your own law—settle the matter yourselves. I will not be a judge of such things.’ So he had them ejected from the court. Then they all turned on Sosthenes the synagogue ruler and beat him in front of the court. But Gallio showed no concern whatever.” Acts 18:14-17.
Since both the Jews and Greeks lived in Corinth, it seems it was a mob of angry people who were looking for someone to blame and Sosthenes was the obvious target. Perhaps they didn’t think he made an adequate case against Paul, and it was an opportunity to vent their feelings! Perhaps they needed someone to blame for those who were leaving their “faith?” Whatever the reason, they turned on one of their own!
The Bema area is still there in Corinth and you can visit it. The pillar where Sosthenes would have been tied and flogged is there, also the place where the angry mob stood. This experience seemed to be a turning point in the life of this man. If Acts 18 and 1 Corinthians 1:1 go together, Paul’s companion was the very man who had previously tried to prosecute him because of his faith in Christ! His opposition to the gospel was replaced by active participation! The gospel had permeated the city of Corinth! Amazing what the grace of God can do to a city given over to idolatry! Never give up on praying for the lost. The Lord is faithful and is not willing that any should perish.
Your friend, Jean