Theophilus: The High Priest and Ethnarch of Judea under Caligula

Introduction to Theophilus in the New Testament

In the book of Luke, Theophilus is initially referred to as 'Most Excellent,' a title often attributed to Roman officials specifically the procurators of Judea during the time of the Roman Empire.

The Title Most Excellent

The term 'Most Excellent,' known in Greek as 'kratiste,' is used in the book of Acts in reference to Roman procurators like Felix and Festus. This title is a clear indicator of Theophilus's high-ranking position in the Roman-controlled Judean government.

High Priestly Office in Judea

The position of the high priest in Judea before the Roman annexation had formidable political significance. From the Hasmonean period until the Roman rule, the high priest held a pivotal role akin to a king or president an Ethnarch who led the nation. However, with the Roman annexation, the high priest became a tool for Rome to control the Jewish populace.

Theophilus as High Priest and Ethnarch

In 36 CE, Caiaphas was dismissed as the high priest, and shortly thereafter, Pilate was sent to Rome to face accusations, including the unauthorized coronation of Christ as King of the Jews. In the aftermath of Tiberius's death in January 37 CE, Gaius Caligula ascended to power and aimed to foster paganism to preserve his rule.

The high priest Theophilus, a member of the influential Annas family, was appointed Ethnarch after his brother Jonathan. This explains why he was referred to as 'Most Excellent' in the early reference to Luke 1. As Ethnarch, Theophilus had the responsibility of defending the rights of the Jews, particularly during the direst times of persecution under Caligula.

Caligula's Plan to Disrupt Jewish Worship

Caligula's intention was to place a lavish statue of himself in the Jerusalem Temple, which would likely have ignited a religious revolt and led to the extermination of the Jews by Roman legions. This plan prompted Theophilus to take protective measures.

Transition and Historical Significance

The mention of Theophilus in Luke 1 is significant, as it places the writing of Luke and Acts around 60 CE. The fact that he is no longer referred to as 'Most Excellent' in Acts 1 indicates that he had stepped down as high priest and Ethnarch by then. This change in address offers substantial evidence that Theophilus held the position of high priest between 37 and 41 CE.

Implications for the Date of Luke's Writing

The removal of Theophilus from his official titles in Acts 1 suggests that Luke was written sometime after 41 CE, around 60 CE. This timeline aligns with the previously established date for the writing of Acts.

Conclusion

Theophilus represented a crucial chapter in the political history of Judea during the Roman era. His multifaceted role as high priest and Ethnarch was not only a testament to the complex interactions between Jewish and Roman power structures but also a pivotal moment in early Christian history.