### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun enkopē (`{{G1464}}`) is derived from the verb enkoptō (`{{G1465}}`), which literally means "to cut into" or "to cut in upon." From this foundational sense, it developed the meaning "to impede," "to hinder," or "to throw obstacles in the way." Therefore, enkopē denotes the *act* of hindering or the *hindrance* itself; an obstruction, impediment, or barrier that prevents progress, completion, or free movement. The underlying idea suggests an interruption or a breaking off of a path or course, implying an external force or circumstance that creates difficulty or prevents smooth operation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term enkopē (`{{G1464}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, offering a focused yet profound insight into its theological significance.
* **[[1 Corinthians 9:12]]**: "If others share this right over you, do not we even more? Nevertheless, we have not made use of this right, but we endure everything so that we may not create any enkopē (hindrance) for the gospel of Christ."
In this singular occurrence, the Apostle Paul employs enkopē to articulate his rationale for foregoing his legitimate right to financial support as an apostle. The context is Paul's extensive defense of his apostolic ministry and his willingness to endure hardship and self-denial for the sake of the gospel. He explains that while other apostles or Christian workers might exercise their right to be supported by those they serve, he chooses not to, enduring "everything" (hunger, thirst, nakedness, beatings, etc. as detailed elsewhere in his letters) so that he might not place any "hindrance" in the path of the gospel.
The "hindrance" here refers to anything that might obstruct the reception or credibility of the gospel message. This could include accusations of greed, self-interest, or any behavior that might cause offense or distract from the spiritual message itself. Paul's concern is paramount: to ensure that nothing in his conduct, even a legitimate exercise of his rights, becomes a stumbling block or an impediment to the saving truth of Christ. This passage powerfully illustrates Paul's self-sacrificial ethos and his unwavering commitment to the unhindered proclamation of the good news.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several Greek words share semantic overlap with enkopē (`{{G1464}}`), illuminating various facets of "hindrance" in the New Testament:
* **enkoptō (`{{G1465}}`)**: The verbal root of enkopē, meaning "to cut in," "to hinder," or "to impede." This verb is used more frequently (e.g., [[Romans 15:22]], [[Galatians 5:7]], [[1 Thessalonians 2:18]], [[1 Peter 3:7]]), often referring to an active prevention or obstruction. For instance, in [[Galatians 5:7]], Paul asks, "Who enkoptō (hindered) you from obeying the truth?"
* **skandalon (`{{G4625}}`)**: "Stumbling block," "offense," or "cause of stumbling." While enkopē refers to a general impediment, skandalon often implies something that causes someone to stumble morally or spiritually, potentially leading to sin or apostasy. There is a conceptual overlap, as both can impede spiritual progress.
* **koluo (`{{G2967}}`)**: A more general verb meaning "to hinder," "to prevent," "to forbid," or "to restrain." It is broadly used to describe preventing an action or movement.
* **empodizo (`{{G1700}}`)**: Literally "to entangle the feet," thus "to hinder" or "to impede." This word evokes the vivid image of someone's feet being caught, making progress difficult or impossible.
These related terms collectively highlight the New Testament's recognition of various forms of opposition and obstacles, both external and internal, that can impede the Christian life and the spread of the gospel.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of enkopē (`{{G1464}}`) in [[1 Corinthians 9:12]] carries profound theological weight, particularly concerning Christian ministry, ethics, and mission.
1. **Missional Priority**: The passage underscores the supreme priority of the gospel's unhindered advancement. Paul's willingness to waive his legitimate rights demonstrates that the effective proclamation of Christ's message takes precedence over personal comfort, privilege, or entitlement. This principle challenges believers to assess how their actions, even those permissible, might inadvertently create barriers to others embracing the faith.
2. **Self-Sacrifice in Ministry**: The concept of avoiding enkopē highlights the call to self-sacrifice in Christian service. True ministry, as exemplified by Paul, is not about personal gain or asserting rights, but about selfless devotion to the spiritual well-being of others and the glory of God. It encourages a discerning approach to personal freedoms, asking whether their exercise might detract from the gospel's clarity or credibility.
3. **Integrity of Witness**: The "hindrance" Paul seeks to avoid is not necessarily sin, but anything that could cause the Corinthians (or observers) to misinterpret his motives, question his sincerity, or doubt the divine origin of his message. It speaks to the critical importance of integrity and blameless conduct in those who represent Christ, ensuring that the messenger does not become a distraction from the message.
4. **Ethical Dimension of Evangelism**: Enkopē serves as a powerful reminder that the ethical conduct of believers is intrinsically linked to the effectiveness of evangelism. Our lives are a testimony, and any perceived inconsistency or self-serving behavior can become an obstacle that impedes the reception of the truth.
### Summary
Enkopē (`{{G1464}}`) is a Greek noun meaning "a hindrance" or "an impediment," derived from the verb enkoptō (`{{G1465}}`), which means "to cut into" or "to obstruct." Its sole appearance in the New Testament is in [[1 Corinthians 9:12]], where the Apostle Paul explains his decision to forgo his apostolic right to financial support. He does this to avoid creating any "hindrance" for the gospel of Christ, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to the unhindered proclamation of God's redemptive message. This usage profoundly illustrates the theological principle that the advancement of the gospel takes precedence over personal rights or comforts. It calls believers to a discerning and self-sacrificial lifestyle, ensuring that their conduct always supports and never impedes the spread of God's truth. The word thus emphasizes the critical importance of integrity and selfless service in Christian witness, aiming to remove any potential barrier to the reception of the good news.
TRV