συναποστέλλω

I send together with

Definition

The verb συναποστέλλω means 'to send together with' or 'to dispatch in company with.' It conveys the idea of sending someone or something along with another person, emphasizing joint mission or accompaniment. In its sole New Testament occurrence (2 Corinthians 12:18), it describes Paul sending Titus and another brother together, highlighting their shared purpose and authority. The compound nature of the word intensifies the sense of partnership in the act of sending, rather than a mere sequential or independent dispatch.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in 2 Corinthians 12:18. Here, Paul employs it in a defensive context regarding his financial integrity, recalling how he 'sent' (συναπέστειλα) Titus and a brother together to the Corinthian church. The usage underscores a deliberate, collaborative sending for a specific ministry task, reinforcing the idea of accountability and shared witness in apostolic work.

Etymology

Συναποστέλλω is a compound verb formed from the preposition σύν (syn), meaning 'with' or 'together,' and the verb ἀποστέλλω (apostellō), meaning 'to send away' or 'to dispatch.' Ἀποστέλλω itself is a common biblical term for sending, often with a sense of authoritative commission (as in 'apostle'). The prefix σύν adds a communal dimension, so the combined meaning emphasizes sending in partnership or conjunction.

Semantic Range

Though used only once, συναποστέλλω carries theological weight in illustrating principles of collaborative ministry and accountability. In 2 Corinthians 12:18, Paul uses it to defend his transparency, showing that he did not act alone but sent coworkers together, ensuring integrity in handling offerings. This reflects New Testament patterns of teamwork in mission (e.g., Paul and Barnabas in Acts 13:2) and the importance of multiple witnesses (cf. 2 Corinthians 13:1). Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by highlighting how early Christian leadership valued partnership to avoid suspicion and model unity.

In the ancient Greco-Roman world, sending messengers or delegates together was a practical safeguard for long journeys and a means to verify messages or transactions. Paul's use aligns with this cultural practice, as sending Titus with a companion provided mutual support and credibility, especially when collecting funds—a sensitive task that could invite accusations of dishonesty. The cultural expectation of multiple witnesses (Deuteronomy 19:15) also informs this context, making the joint sending a culturally resonant act of prudence and trustworthiness.

ἀποστέλλω (apostellō, G649) — a broader term for sending, often with authority, but without the emphasis on accompaniment; πέμπω (pempō, G3992) — a more general word for sending, typically without the implied commission of apostellō.

Word Details

Scripture References