### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ergátēs**, represented by `{{G2040}}`, means a **toiler**, and is commonly translated as a **labourer** or **worker**. Figuratively, it can refer to a **teacher**. It appears 16 times across 15 unique verses, highlighting its role in describing both physical and spiritual work.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G2040}}` is used in several key ways. It is frequently employed in an agricultural metaphor, where the harvest is **great** but the **labourers** are **few** ([[Matthew 9:37]], [[Luke 10:2]]). This imagery extends to the parable of the **householder** `{{G3617}}` who hires **labourers** for his **vineyard** `{{G290}}` [[Matthew 20:1]]. The term also describes those engaged in spiritual work, such as the **workman** who rightly divides the word of truth [[2 Timothy 2:15]]. In a negative sense, it identifies **evil workers** [[Philippians 3:2]], **deceitful workers** [[2 Corinthians 11:13]], and **workers of iniquity** [[Luke 13:27]]. The principle that the **labourer** is **worthy** `{{G514}}` of his **hire** `{{G3408}}` or **meat** `{{G5160}}` is a recurring theme ([[Luke 10:7]], [[1 Timothy 5:18]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of work and its context:
* `{{G2326}}` **therismós** (harvest): This word for the crop is often the context for the **labourers**, as seen in the plea for the Lord of the **harvest** to send more **labourers** [[Luke 10:2]].
* `{{G3408}}` **misthós** (reward, wages): This term for pay is directly connected to the principle that a **labourer** is worthy of his **reward** [[1 Timothy 5:18]], and is the subject of the parable where **labourers** are called to receive their **hire** [[Matthew 20:8]].
* `{{G1384}}` **dókimos** (approved): This describes the quality of a faithful **workman**, one who is **approved** unto God [[2 Timothy 2:15]].
* `{{G2556}}` **kakós** (evil): This term is used to qualify the nature of certain **workers**, identifying them as **evil workers** from whom believers should beware [[Philippians 3:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2040}}` is significant. It defines the nature of Christian service and ministry.
* **Divine Commission:** The call for **labourers** for the great **harvest** `{{G2326}}` establishes a theological imperative for believers to participate in God's work. This is not a self-appointed task, but a response to the "Lord of the harvest" who sends them forth ([[Matthew 9:38]], [[Luke 10:2]]).
* **Accountability and Just Reward:** The theme of the **worker** being **worthy** `{{G514}}` of their **hire** `{{G3408}}` underscores God's justice. This applies both to the provision for ministers [[1 Timothy 5:18]] and to the condemnation of those who defraud **labourers** of their wages, whose cries reach the "Lord of sabaoth" [[James 5:4]].
* **Spiritual Discernment:** `{{G2040}}` is a key term for distinguishing between true and false ministry. Paul warns against **evil workers** [[Philippians 3:2]] and **deceitful workers** [[2 Corinthians 11:13]] who transform themselves into apostles of Christ, highlighting the need for discernment.
* **Faithful Stewardship:** The role of the **workman** is presented as one of stewardship. An **approved** `{{G1384}}` **workman** is one who studies to show themselves approved to God, "rightly dividing" the word of truth, indicating a high standard of diligence and faithfulness [[2 Timothy 2:15]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2040}}` **ergátēs** is a versatile term that elevates the concept of labor from a simple task to a matter of spiritual significance. It serves as a powerful metaphor for participation in God's kingdom, describing the urgent need for workers in the spiritual harvest. Whether referring to a vinedresser, an apostle, or a false teacher, the word consistently carries connotations of action, accountability, and consequence, defining a standard for faithful service while warning against those who work evil.
TRV