Unexpected Legacies: Silas, The Scribe

Matthew J Elliott

Ancient Painting of Silas

Scribes in the early church make for an interesting study. Silvanus, also known as Silas, is among them. The New Testament offers insights into who they were and what role they played. Similar to John Mark, Silas committed himself to ministry. He traveled with Peter and Paul, supporting their evangelistic work. He was a scribe for them both. Scribes, according to the dictionary, were not just writers; they were members of a powerful elite, who had a good standing and respect. Educated and learned, they served as teachers, editors, and historians, committed to the study of sacred texts. 

Today, the Bible is available to pretty much anyone who needs it. Those who served as scribes in the early church played a role in making this a possibility. Without them, we would have nowhere close to the amount of history that we have today. They were the keepers of history in a lot of ways. Although not always the original authors, these scribes preserve the historical accounts we have today. They preserved the inspiring words of those who shared their thoughts and ideals with their people. 

AI Generation of an Ancient Scribe

Although Silas worked as a scribe, he was also a respected member of the Jerusalem church. He traveled with Paul on his second missionary journey (2 Corinthians 1:19) and also experienced the harsh realities of imprisonment. There are even moments in scripture where he endured beatings just like Paul did (Acts 16:16-20). According to scriptures like 1 Peter 5:12, there is a strong indication that Silas accompanied Peter on missionary journeys as well. While Silas spent time with both of them, he also had his own missionary work. There is substantial evidence Silas spent a great deal of time in Antioch of Syria  (Acts 15:32). Many of those we learn about as traveling companions to Paul valued him. 

Some experts even affirm that there is a strong possibility that he was the author of one of the most educational letters in the New Testament, The Letter of Hebrews. Francine Rivers wrote an entire book about it called The Scribe. Although the authorship of Hebrews remains a mystery, Silas’s involvement as a potential author highlights his significant role in the early church’s growth. I strive to avoid placing my own theories in these historical articles. My personal research has led me to believe that Silas was involved in writing Hebrews, at least. I am actually working on a book right now that speaks to this idea. 

AI Generation of Paul and Silas in Prison 

The role that Silas played in the ministry of Paul and Peter was supportive, but there is a legacy in that type of ministry as well. Without support roles in the world we live in today, many things would go undone. Even in hard times, it’s the encouragement of others that keeps humanity going. People like Silas hold those in authority accountable for fulfilling their duty as leaders in society, regardless of what year it is. He is a great example of someone who used his gifts to serve others in humility and faithfulness. It is through that kind of loyalty that Silas becomes someone worth remembering. 

Ancient Writing

In all reality, the world of that time needed scribes like Silas to help build the foundations of the early church. Through everything, they stood by those they were called to support. We need more people like the scribes of the New Testament in the world today. With support like that, I am sure things would be much different. Scribes like Silas knew what they were getting into and were loyal to those they served. They were experts in an ancient, forgotten craft. The art of keeping records has fallen into a digital age and I, for one, believe in having those physical papers in hand. 

While we have people today, such as copywriters and editors, there was something significant about scribes who had to take the time to create the papyrus and ink they used to write within their time. Those of us who consider ourselves writers today honestly have it much easier than the scribes of the New Testament era. With a humility that rivaled even the most loyal servants of their time, scribes left behind a legacy of loyalty that would be hard to match in today’s world. Silas was a significant part of that. 

~ Biography ~

Matthew James Elliott (M.J. Elliott) is a passionate writer who loves to encourage and inspire others. He has served in various ministry roles for over 15 years, which has given him a unique perspective on people and Biblical History. Matthew holds a degree in Biblical Studies from Oklahoma Wesleyan University, with a focus on Pastoral Care, Christian Education, and Worship.

Matthew is happily married to Traci, and they have three children named Leyla, Caleb, and Hannah, who bring them immense joy and inspiration. As a writer, Matthew's goal is to share love, equip others, and edify them for the greater good. He loves connecting any amount of scripture to his stories and uses his knowledge of Biblical History to do so often.

You can find Matthew's works on Amazon, Goodreads, Facebook, and His Website. He has written Devotionals, An Episodic Series, Novellas, and even Commentaries for The Gospel Daily.

~ Highlighted Release ~

The Ephesus Pages: Part 1 (Episodes 1-10) is available now for .99 cents. Grab it while you can.

One Man. His Continued Journey. Working to Build the Early Church. 

Part One; A Journey Begins

John Mark carries the weight of his past on his shoulders, and there is one person he has never reconciled with. In an epic story surrounding the city of Ephesus, and the ministry of Paul during his three-year ministry there, life as we know it will change. Join John Mark as he embarks on a new journey seeking reconciliation. As he leaves all that he knows behind on the shores of Cyprus, John Mark will begin a new three-part journey that will test his faith, build him up, and reveal much about his past.