### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb γυμνητεύω (gymnēteúō, `{{G1130}}`) is derived from γυμνός (gymnos, `{{G1131}}`), meaning "naked," "bare," or "unclothed." While gymnos can denote absolute nakedness, gymnēteúō carries a specific nuance of being poorly clad, insufficiently clothed, or in a state of destitution where one lacks adequate covering. It implies a condition of vulnerability and exposure due to the absence of necessary garments, often in the context of poverty or hardship. The verb can convey the act of stripping oneself or, more commonly in its reflexive sense, enduring the state of being poorly clothed, thus "being naked" in the sense of lacking proper attire rather than complete unclothedness.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb γυμνητεύω (gymnēteúō, `{{G1130}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in [[1 Corinthians 4:11]]. In this passage, the Apostle Paul describes the harsh realities and sufferings endured by himself and the other apostles for the sake of the Gospel:
"To this very hour we go hungry and thirsty, we are poorly clothed (γυμνητεύομεν), we are roughly treated, and we are homeless." [[1 Corinthians 4:11]]
In this context, gymnēteúomen (the first person plural present indicative of gymnēteúō) is part of a litany of physical deprivations and indignities. It stands alongside hunger, thirst, physical abuse, and homelessness, painting a vivid picture of extreme destitution and vulnerability. The apostles were not merely without luxury but were actively suffering from a fundamental lack of basic necessities, including adequate clothing to protect them from the elements or to maintain dignity. This usage powerfully underscores their self-sacrificial commitment and their identification with the lowest strata of society, contrasting sharply with the Corinthians' perceived comfort and spiritual pride.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the adjective γυμνός (gymnos, `{{G1131}}`), from which γυμνητεύω is derived. Gymnos is used more broadly in the New Testament to describe:
* Physical nakedness (e.g., Adam and Eve after the fall, [[Genesis 3:7]], [[Revelation 3:17]]).
* Spiritual nakedness, signifying a lack of righteousness or spiritual covering (e.g., the church in Laodicea, [[Revelation 3:17]]).
* Being "unclothed" in the sense of longing for the heavenly body (e.g., [[2 Corinthians 5:3-4]]).
* Being open and exposed, as all things are "naked and open" before God ([[Hebrews 4:13]]).
Other related concepts, though not direct lexical cognates, include:
* πενία (penia, `{{G3993}}`): poverty, need.
* ἔνδυσις (endysis, `{{G1746}}`): clothing, garment.
* ἀσχημονέω (aschēmoneō, `{{G807}}`): to act unbecomingly or disgracefully, which can sometimes be associated with improper appearance.
The concept of suffering for Christ (πάθημα, pathēma, `{{G3804}}`) and self-denial are also closely linked to the state described by gymnēteúō.
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of γυμνητεύω in [[1 Corinthians 4:11]] carries profound theological weight. It serves as a stark reminder of the true cost of apostolic ministry and discipleship. Paul deliberately juxtaposes the apostles' abject poverty and suffering with the Corinthians' self-perceived spiritual wealth and wisdom. This contrast highlights:
1. **Apostolic Humility and Suffering:** The word underscores the apostles' willingness to endure extreme physical hardship, including inadequate clothing, as a testament to their commitment to the Gospel. This directly mirrors the suffering of Christ and serves as an example of kenosis (self-emptying) in the lives of His followers.
2. **Authenticity of Ministry:** Paul uses this description to validate his ministry, demonstrating that true service to Christ often involves self-sacrifice and identification with the marginalized, rather than worldly comfort or prestige. It challenges the Corinthians' superficial understanding of spiritual success.
3. **The Nature of the Kingdom:** The apostles' gymnēteúō illustrates that the Kingdom of God is not characterized by worldly prosperity or ease, but often by hardship and persecution. It calls believers to re-evaluate their values and priorities in light of the suffering Christ and His humble servants.
4. **Empathy and Solidarity:** The passage implicitly calls believers to empathy for those who suffer for the Gospel and to a deeper understanding of the sacrifices made by those who faithfully serve God, often in conditions of great deprivation.
### Summary
The Greek verb γυμνητεύω (gymnēteúō, `{{G1130}}`) is derived from the word for "naked" (γυμνός, gymnos, `{{G1131}}`) and specifically denotes the state of being poorly or insufficiently clothed, indicative of destitution and vulnerability. Its sole New Testament occurrence in [[1 Corinthians 4:11]] powerfully illustrates the extreme physical hardships faced by the apostles, who endured hunger, thirst, abuse, homelessness, and a lack of proper garments for the sake of the Gospel. This word serves as a profound theological statement, highlighting the sacrificial nature of true ministry, the humility of Christ's servants, and the stark contrast between worldly comfort and the suffering inherent in faithful discipleship. It underscores the apostles' identification with the lowest and most vulnerable, challenging believers to embrace a similar spirit of self-denial and solidarity with those who suffer for Christ.
TRV