ἐνέργημα

a working, an effect

Definition

ἐνέργημα refers to a specific act or result of working, an effect, or an operation. In the New Testament, it specifically denotes the manifestations or activities produced by divine power, particularly in the context of spiritual gifts. In 1 Corinthians 12:6, it describes the various 'workings' or operations of God that are displayed through different spiritual gifts among believers. In 1 Corinthians 12:10, it is used in the plural to refer to the 'effects' or 'workings' of miracles, highlighting the tangible outcomes of miraculous power.

Biblical Usage

This word is used exclusively by Paul in 1 Corinthians 12, within his discussion of spiritual gifts and the unity of the body of Christ. Both occurrences (1 Corinthians 12:6, 12:10) are in the context of enumerating the diverse manifestations of the Holy Spirit. It is always used in relation to divine activity, specifically the operations or effects produced by God through individuals for the common good.

Etymology

Derived from the verb ἐνεργέω (energeō, G1754), meaning 'to work, be active, or produce an effect.' The noun form ἐνέργημα emphasizes the concrete result or product of that working. It is related to ἐνέργεια (energeia, G1753), which refers more to the activity or energy itself, whereas ἐνέργημα focuses on the specific effect or operation produced.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it underscores that spiritual gifts are not human abilities but specific operations or effects produced by God's power. It highlights the diversity and sovereignty of the Holy Spirit in distributing gifts (1 Corinthians 12:11) and reinforces that all such workings ultimately glorify God. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by clarifying that spiritual gifts are divine effects, not innate talents, emphasizing dependence on God's active presence in the church.

In the Greco-Roman world, the concept of divine 'workings' or effects was also present in philosophical and religious contexts, often associated with supernatural acts or the intervention of gods. Paul's use in 1 Corinthians directly engages a culture familiar with spiritual phenomena, but he redefines these 'workings' as uniquely sourced in the one true God and orderly for building up the Christian community, contrasting with chaotic or self-glorifying displays common in some pagan practices.

ἐνέργεια (energeia, G1753) — refers to the activity or energy in operation, while ἐνέργημα is the specific effect produced; χάρισμα (charisma, G5486) — a gift of grace, broader in scope, while ἐνέργημα is the specific working or effect of that gift.

Word Details

Scripture References