συμμέτοχος

jointly partaking

Definition

The adjective συμμέτοχος means 'jointly partaking' or 'sharing together with others.' It describes a state of mutual participation in something, emphasizing partnership and commonality. In Ephesians 3:6, it specifically denotes Gentile believers being fellow heirs and members of the same body in Christ, sharing equally in the promises of the gospel. In Ephesians 5:7, it warns against becoming 'partakers with' the disobedient, indicating a shared involvement in sinful practices.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only twice in the New Testament, both times in Ephesians. It appears in positive and negative contexts of shared participation. In Ephesians 3:6, it highlights the inclusive unity of the church, where Gentiles are συμμέτοχοι of the promise in Christ. In Ephesians 5:7, it serves as a prohibition, urging believers not to be συμμέτοχοι with those practicing immorality. The pattern shows it can describe either beneficial spiritual partnership or detrimental association.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition σύν (syn), meaning 'with' or 'together,' combined with μέτοχος (metochos, G3353), meaning 'partaker' or 'sharer.' The compound intensifies the idea of joint participation. It is related to the verb μετέχω (metechō, G3348), 'to share in.' The formation emphasizes communal involvement rather than individual possession.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant for understanding Christian unity and ethics. In Ephesians 3:6, it underscores the doctrine of the church as one body, where Jew and Gentile are equal co-participants in God's covenant promises through Christ—a radical concept in the first century. In Ephesians 5:7, it informs Christian separation from sin, highlighting that shared identity in Christ requires distinct moral conduct. Grasping this Greek term enriches reading by revealing the New Testament's emphasis on both shared inheritance and shared responsibility.

In the Greco-Roman world, concepts of partnership and sharing were vital in social, religious, and economic life. The term would resonate with ideas of fellowship clubs (koinōnia) or business partnerships. Paul's use in Ephesians 3:6 challenged cultural and religious barriers, as Jews and Gentiles were typically separated. His application redefines partnership around faith in Christ, transcending ethnic divisions that were deeply ingrained in the ancient Mediterranean society.

μέτοχος (metochos, G3353) — a partaker or sharer, but without the explicit 'together with' emphasis; κοινωνός (koinōnos, G2844) — a partner or companion, often in a close association or fellowship; συγκληρονόμος (synklēronomos, G4789) — a joint-heir, specifically sharing an inheritance.

Word Details

Scripture References