### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb ἐκδαπανάω (ekdapanáō, `{{G1550}}`) is a compound word formed from the preposition ἐκ (ek), meaning "out of," "from," or indicating completion/intensity, and the verb δαπανάω (dapanáō, `{{G1159}}`), meaning "to spend," "to consume," or "to waste." The combination of these elements yields a potent semantic range centered on the idea of complete expenditure or exhaustive consumption. While δαπανάω can denote simply spending money or resources, the prefix ἐκ- intensifies this action, implying a spending *to the point of depletion* or *utter exhaustion*. Figuratively, it conveys the sense of being entirely consumed, worn out, or spent for a purpose. It moves beyond mere giving to a radical giving of oneself until nothing is left.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb ἐκδαπανάω (ekdapanáō, `{{G1550}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, yet its singular occurrence carries profound weight and illuminates a core aspect of apostolic ministry. This sole instance is found in 2 Corinthians 12:15: "Most gladly therefore will I spend and be spent for your souls; though the more abundantly I love you, the less I be loved" [[2 Corinthians 12:15]].
In this passage, the Apostle Paul articulates his unwavering commitment to the Corinthian believers. The phrase "I will most gladly spend and be spent" (ἐγὼ δὲ ἥδιστα δαπανήσω καὶ ἐκδαπανηθήσομαι) is a powerful declaration of self-sacrifice. The first verb, δαπανήσω (dapanēsō), indicates Paul's willingness to expend his resources, time, and effort for their spiritual benefit. The second verb, ἐκδαπανηθήσομαι (ekdapanēthēsomai), is the passive form of ἐκδαπανάω (ekdapanáō, `{{G1550}}`), meaning "I will be utterly spent" or "I will be completely exhausted." This passive voice emphasizes that he is willing to allow himself to be consumed entirely in the service of their souls.
The context of 2 Corinthians 12 is Paul's defense of his apostleship against detractors who questioned his authority and sincerity. He highlights his suffering, weakness, and self-denial as marks of genuine ministry, contrasting them with the self-aggrandizing behavior of false apostles. His willingness to be ἐκδαπανάω underscores his pure motives: his love for them is so profound that he is prepared to give his very life force, even if his sacrificial love is not reciprocated. This verse serves as a powerful testament to the self-emptying nature of true spiritual leadership.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is δαπανάω (dapanáō, `{{G1159}}`), the root verb from which ἐκδαπανάω (ekdapanáō, `{{G1550}}`) is derived. While δαπανάω (`{{G1159}}`) can refer to any spending or consumption (e.g., "to spend money" in [[Mark 5:26]], "to consume with pleasure" in [[James 4:3]]), the addition of the ἐκ- prefix in ἐκδαπανάω (`{{G1550}}`) elevates the action to one of complete and utter depletion. It signifies not just spending, but being *spent out*.
Conceptually, ἐκδαπανάω (`{{G1550}}`) resonates with several key biblical themes:
* **Self-Sacrifice:** It exemplifies the ultimate giving of oneself for the benefit of others, mirroring the sacrificial love of Christ.
* **Apostolic Labor:** It describes the intense, demanding, and often exhausting nature of ministry undertaken for the sake of the Gospel and the spiritual well-being of believers.
* **Stewardship:** While often applied to material resources, here it extends to the stewardship of one's very life and energy.
* **Imitation of Christ:** Paul's willingness to be "spent" for others reflects the pattern of Christ, who "emptied himself" (ἐκένωσεν, `{{G2758}}`) for humanity's salvation ([[Philippians 2:7]]).
### Theological Significance
The single, yet potent, use of ἐκδαπανάω (ekdapanáō, `{{G1550}}`) in [[2 Corinthians 12:15]] carries profound theological significance, particularly for understanding the nature of Christian ministry and discipleship.
Firstly, it portrays ministry not as a profession or a means of personal gain, but as a radical act of self-giving. Paul's declaration that he will "spend and be spent" for the souls of the Corinthians elevates the spiritual welfare of others above his own comfort, reputation, or even physical well-being. This aligns with the biblical understanding of *agape* love, which is inherently sacrificial and seeks the good of the beloved above all else.
Secondly, ἐκδαπανάω (`{{G1550}}`) highlights the costly nature of authentic spiritual leadership. It implies a willingness to endure hardship, exhaustion, and even unreciprocated love for the sake of the Gospel. This resonates with the suffering servant motif and the call for believers to take up their cross and follow Christ ([[Matthew 16:24]]). Paul's ministry was not characterized by ease but by immense toil and suffering, all of which he gladly embraced for the spiritual benefit of those he served.
Finally, this word underscores the depth of Paul's personal identification with the mission of Christ. Just as Christ gave Himself completely, Paul was prepared to be utterly consumed in the service of the church. It serves as a powerful example for all believers, reminding us that true discipleship often involves a complete investment of one's life, not merely a partial contribution, for the advancement of God's kingdom and the spiritual flourishing of others.
### Summary
ἐκδαπανάω (ekdapanáō, `{{G1550}}`) is a powerful Greek verb that signifies a complete and exhaustive expenditure, a spending to the point of utter depletion or being entirely worn out. Though appearing only once in the New Testament, in [[2 Corinthians 12:15]], its usage is deeply impactful. The Apostle Paul employs it to convey his radical commitment to the Corinthian believers, declaring his willingness to "spend and be spent" for their souls. This word, intensified by the prefix ἐκ- beyond the root δαπανάω (`{{G1159}}`), encapsulates the essence of sacrificial Christian ministry: a selfless, costly, and all-consuming devotion to the spiritual well-being of others, mirroring the self-giving love of Christ. It serves as a profound theological statement on the nature of true spiritual leadership and the call to complete self-investment in service to God's people.
TRV