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Rufus

Rufus was the son of Simon of Cyrene, who carried Jesus' cross to Golgotha. He is mentioned in Mark's Gospel and appears to have become a prominent figure in the early church at Rome.

Overview

Rufus is mentioned twice in Scripture, first as the son of Simon of Cyrene, the man compelled to carry Jesus' cross during the crucifixion. Later, he appears as a respected member of the Roman church, suggesting he may have become a believer through his family's encounter with Christ.

Key Scriptures

"They compelled a passerby, Simon of Cyrene, who was coming in from the country, the father of Alexander and Rufus, to carry his cross." (Mark 15:21, ESV)

"Greet Rufus, chosen in the Lord; also his mother and mine." (Romans 16:13, ESV)

Application

Rufus' journey from witnessing Christ's suffering to becoming a valued member of God's church reminds us that encounters with Jesus transform lives and can affect entire families for generations.

Scripture References 2
Full Topical Reference List 2 total — Nave's Topical Bible

Probably identical with the Rufus mentioned by Paul

Son of Simon