The Greek word katarithméō, represented by G2674, means to reckon among or number with. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse, making its single biblical usage highly specific. The term is formed from κατά and ἀριθμέω.
The sole use of G2674 appears in Acts 1:17, where it describes Judas Iscariot's former position among the apostles. The verse states, "For G3754 he was G2258 numbered G2674 with G4862 us G2254, and G2532 had obtained G2975 part G2819 of this G5026 ministry G1248." This usage emphasizes the act of being officially included and counted within a specific group, in this case, the company of the apostles who shared in a common ministry G1248.
Several words in its only context Acts 1:17 clarify the meaning of being numbered with a group:
- G4862 sýn (with): A primary preposition denoting union, it emphasizes the companionship and association of being counted with the apostles.
- G2819 klēros (part): This word signifies a portion, lot, or inheritance. In this context, it shows that being numbered with the group meant receiving a specific part or designated role within their shared work.
- G1248 diakonía (ministry): This refers to service, office, or attendance. The individual was numbered with the apostles for the purpose of participating in this ministry, highlighting that inclusion was tied to a specific function or service.
The theological weight of G2674 is understood entirely through its singular use concerning Judas's apostleship.
- Official Appointment: To be numbered with the apostles was to be officially included in their ministry (G1248), a service received from the Lord Jesus (Acts 20:24). This was a formal recognition of a role, not a casual affiliation.
- An Allotted Inheritance: Being numbered came with an obtained part (G2819), or klēros. This term is also used for the "inheritance G2819 of the saints" (Colossians 1:12) and God's "heritage G2819" (1 Peter 5:3), suggesting the apostolic role was a sacred, allotted portion of God's work.
- Inclusion and Responsibility: The term's application to one who was G2258 once part of the apostolic mission (Acts 1:17) underscores the concept of being counted within God's service. It highlights that a position of honor and service was granted, linking inclusion directly to a specific ministry (G1248).
In summary, katarithméō G2674 is a precise term for being reckoned or counted as part of a group. Though used only once, its context in Acts 1:17 powerfully illustrates the concept of formal inclusion within the apostolic company. It shows that being numbered was directly connected to obtaining a part (G2819) in a shared ministry (G1248), defining one's place and function within the early church's foundational work.
TRV