συμμιμητής

a joint imitator

Definition

The word συμμιμητής (symmimētēs) means 'a joint imitator' or 'fellow imitator.' It describes someone who imitates or follows an example together with others, emphasizing communal participation in a shared pattern of behavior. In its sole New Testament occurrence, Paul uses it to urge believers to join him in imitating Christ-like living and to observe others who walk according to the apostolic example (Philippians 3:17). The term combines the idea of imitation (mimētēs) with partnership (syn-), highlighting that Christian discipleship is not a solitary endeavor but a collective pursuit of godliness.

Biblical Usage

This word appears only once in the New Testament, in Philippians 3:17. Here, Paul exhorts the Philippian church to become 'fellow imitators' of him and to take note of those who walk according to the pattern they have in the apostles. The usage emphasizes communal imitation of apostolic conduct, which itself models Christ. It is part of Paul's pastoral encouragement for unity and shared spiritual growth within the community.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek preposition σύν (syn), meaning 'with' or 'together,' combined with μιμητής (mimētēs), meaning 'imitator' or 'follower.' The root μιμητής comes from μιμέομαι (mimeomai, 'to imitate'). Thus, συμμιμητής literally means 'a co-imitator' or 'one who imitates together with others.' It reflects a Hellenistic Greek compound that emphasizes joint action in following an example.

Semantic Range

This word underscores the communal nature of Christian discipleship. It teaches that believers are called not only to imitate Christ individually but to do so in fellowship with others, following godly examples like Paul's. It relates to doctrines of sanctification, church unity, and apostolic authority, showing that spiritual growth is a corporate endeavor. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by highlighting the New Testament's emphasis on mutual encouragement and shared conformity to Christ's image.

In the ancient Greco-Roman world, imitation (mimesis) was a key educational and philosophical concept, where students learned by emulating teachers or exemplary figures. Paul adapts this cultural idea, infusing it with Christian content by pointing to Christ and apostolic models. The prefix 'syn-' reflects the strong communal ethos of early Christian communities, where identity and practice were shaped collectively, differing from modern individualistic approaches to faith.

μιμητής (mimētēs, G3402) — a general term for 'imitator,' without the communal emphasis; ἀκολουθέω (akoloutheō, G190) — 'to follow,' often used for following Jesus physically or spiritually; ζηλωτής (zēlōtēs, G2207) — 'zealot' or 'enthusiast,' focusing on fervor rather than imitation.

Word Details

Scripture References