πολίτευμα

a state, commonwealth

Definition

πολίτευμα refers primarily to a community of citizens, a commonwealth, or a state. In its only New Testament occurrence in Philippians 3:20, it denotes the heavenly citizenship or commonwealth to which Christians belong. This contrasts with earthly political entities, emphasizing that a believer's ultimate allegiance and legal standing are in heaven, under Christ's lordship. The word carries the sense of an organized, governed community with shared rights and responsibilities.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in Philippians 3:20: 'For our πολίτευμα is in heaven.' Here, Paul uses it metaphorically to describe the Christian's true citizenship. The context contrasts this heavenly citizenship with the earthly pursuits and identities (like Paul's former Jewish credentials) mentioned earlier in the chapter, highlighting where a believer's primary allegiance and legal standing reside.

Etymology

Derived from the verb πολιτεύομαι (politeuomai, G4176), meaning 'to live as a citizen' or 'to conduct one's life.' It comes from the root πόλις (polis, G4172), meaning 'city.' Thus, πολίτευμα fundamentally relates to the condition, rights, and life of a citizen within a city-state or political community.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it encapsulates the Christian identity as citizens of heaven. It reinforces the doctrine of being 'in Christ' and belonging to God's kingdom rather than any earthly nation (Ephesians 2:19). Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by highlighting that salvation grants a new, primary citizenship with eternal rights and responsibilities, which should shape how believers live on earth (Philippians 1:27).

In the Greco-Roman world, citizenship (especially Roman citizenship) conferred valuable legal rights, protections, and a sense of privileged identity. Paul's audience in Philippi, a Roman colony, would have deeply understood the prestige and security of citizenship. By using this term, Paul taps into that cultural understanding to explain the superior and secure status believers have in Christ's heavenly kingdom.

πόλις (polis, G4172) — a physical city or city-state, whereas πολίτευμα emphasizes the citizen body and its political entity. πολιτεία (politeia, G4174) — can mean citizenship, commonwealth, or government, often focusing on the rights and constitution; πολίτευμα is the actual community of citizens itself.

Word Details

Scripture References