Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: There are no direct Hebrew equivalents for the Greek name Θεόφιλος, as it is a distinctly Greek compound name. However, the components of the name can be related to Hebrew concepts: θεός (theos) corresponds to אֱלֹהִים (Elohim, Strong's Hebrew 430) meaning "God," and φίλος (philos) can be related to אָהֵב (aheb, Strong's Hebrew 157) meaning "to love."

Usage: The name Θεόφιλος appears in the New Testament as the addressee of the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles. It is used to address an individual who is either a patron or a person of high standing, possibly a Roman official or a believer with a significant role in the early Christian community.

Context: Theophilus is a figure mentioned in the prologues of both the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles. In Luke 1:3, the author addresses him as "most excellent Theophilus," suggesting a person of rank or influence. This title indicates that Theophilus may have been a Roman official or a person of considerable social standing. The purpose of addressing Theophilus in these writings is to provide an orderly account of the life and teachings of Jesus Christ and the early Church, affirming the truth of the Christian message he had been taught.

The identity of Theophilus remains a subject of scholarly debate. Some propose that he was a real individual who sponsored the writing of Luke and Acts, while others suggest that the name could be symbolic, representing any "lover of God" who seeks to understand the Christian faith. Regardless of his specific identity, Theophilus serves as a representative of the audience for whom these works were intended, emphasizing the historical reliability and theological significance of the events described.

Theophilus's mention underscores the early Christian effort to reach diverse audiences, including those in positions of power, and to provide a credible and well-researched account of the foundational events of Christianity. The writings addressed to him highlight the importance of careful documentation and the transmission of the Gospel message to both believers and seekers of truth.