Strong’s Greek 3416 identifies Mnason, a personal name of Hellenistic form. Though little is recorded about him, Scripture’s brief notice situates him among the earliest followers of Jesus Christ and highlights the enduring fellowship that linked believers across regions.

Biblical Occurrence

Acts 21:16 is the lone mention: “Some of the disciples from Caesarea also went with us and brought us to the home of Mnason of Cyprus, an early disciple, where we were to stay” (Berean Standard Bible). The verse portrays Mnason as:
• an early disciple (πρώτῳ μαθητῇ), implying he believed soon after Pentecost, perhaps during the initial spread of the gospel to Cyprus (Acts 11:19–20).
• a host who opened his home to Paul, Luke, and their companions on the way to Jerusalem.
• a Cypriot, linking him with Barnabas (Acts 4:36) and the vibrant Cypriot witness in the first decades of the Church.

Historical Context

Paul’s third missionary journey was closing (Acts 20:1–21:17). Tensions regarding Gentile conversions and rumors about Paul’s teaching awaited him in Jerusalem. Securing a trusted place to stay in the environs of the city was prudent. Mnason’s home likely lay on the route from Caesarea to Jerusalem, perhaps in a Judean village such as Arimathea or Mount Ephraim, providing respite before the final ascent.

Role in Early Christian Hospitality

Hospitality was a critical ministry in the itinerant church. Mnason’s service reflects:
• Obedience to Christ’s teaching that receiving His messengers equals receiving Him (Matthew 10:40).
• Fulfillment of exhortations such as Romans 12:13 “Share with the saints who are in need. Practice hospitality,” and 1 Peter 4:9 “Show hospitality to one another without complaining.”
• A tangible expression of unity between Jewish and Gentile believers; a Cypriot hosting a team that included both.

Implications for Ministry Today

1. Faithfulness over prominence: though unnamed elsewhere, Mnason’s steadfast commitment from the earliest days evidences the value Scripture places on persevering discipleship (Hebrews 6:10).
2. Strategic generosity: providing lodging advanced apostolic mission. Modern parallels include supporting missionaries, pastors, and students.
3. Cross-cultural partnership: Mnason bridges geographic and cultural lines, modeling cooperation vital for global evangelism.

Related Themes in Scripture

• Early converts sustaining later work—compare Lydia of Philippi (Acts 16:15) and Jason of Thessalonica (Acts 17:5–9).
• Cypriot contribution—Barnabas (Acts 4:36), the men of Cyprus who preached in Antioch (Acts 11:20).
• Household as ministry center—Cornelius (Acts 10:24), Priscilla and Aquila (Acts 18:26).

Notable Lessons

• God remembers seemingly minor servants; their names endure in Scripture as memorials (Malachi 3:16).
• Long-term discipleship equips believers to meet critical needs at strategic moments.
• Welcoming fellow believers is both a privilege and a means God uses to advance His redemptive plan.