Companion of Paul who later deserted him
Demas
Named in 3 verses across 3 books, first in Colossians 4:14.
ΔημᾶςDemas
The name means “popular.” Hitchcock's Bible Names, 1869
About Demas Written by AI
Demas is mentioned in three of Paul's epistles as a companion and fellow worker in the ministry. In Colossians 4:14 and Philemon 1:24, Paul sends greetings from Demas, along with other believers such as Luke, Mark, and Aristarchus. This suggests that Demas was a valued member of Paul's ministry team during his imprisonment in Rome. However, in 2 Timothy 4:10, Paul writes with a tone of disappointment, stating that Demas had forsaken him, "having loved this present world." This statement indicates that Demas had abandoned Paul and the ministry, choosing instead to pursue worldly interests. The exact nature of Demas' desertion is not specified, but it clearly caused Paul distress, especially as he faced his impending martyrdom. The contrast between Demas' earlier dedication and his later abandonment serves as a warning to believers about the allure of worldly pursuits and the importance of remaining faithful to Christ and His mission. Demas' story is a reminder that even those who have served alongside great leaders like Paul can fall away if they allow their love for the world to supersede their commitment to God.
Drafted by an AI model for STEPBible's TIPNR (Tyndale House Cambridge, CC BY 4.0). Check it against the verses below.
Easton's Bible Dictionary, 1897
A companion and fellow-labourer of Paul during his first imprisonment at Rome (Philemon 1:24; Col. 4:14). It appears, however, that the love of the world afterwards mastered him, and he deserted the apostle (2 Tim. 4:10).
M. G. Easton, Illustrated Bible Dictionary, third edition (1897), public domain, from CrossWire. Shown as written; its Scripture quotes are from older translations.
Where the Bible names him
- Colossians 4:14
Luke, the beloved physician, and Demas send you greetings.
- 2 Timothy 4:10
because Demas, in his love of this world, has deserted me and gone to Thessalonica. Crescens has gone to Galatia, and Titus to Dalmatia.
- Philemon 1:24
as do Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke, my fellow workers.
From STEPBible's TIPNR, Tyndale House Cambridge (CC BY 4.0): names, family, references and the AI written article. Verse text is the BSB.