### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb G2710 καταχράομαι (katachráomai) is a compound word derived from the preposition κατά (katá) and the verb χράομαι (chráomai). The base verb χράομαι `{{G5530}}` means "to use," "to employ," or "to make use of." The prefix κατά can carry various nuances, including "down," "against," or an intensifying force, indicating completion, exhaustion, or even misuse.
When combined, καταχράομαι therefore conveys the sense of "to use completely," "to use up," or "to use intensively." However, its primary semantic range in the New Testament, as indicated by its usage, leans towards "to overuse," "to misuse," or "to abuse." It implies not merely the act of using, but doing so in a way that is excessive, improper, or to the detriment of the thing being used or the purpose for which it is intended. It suggests a transgression of appropriate limits or a perversion of a legitimate right or resource.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word G2710 καταχράομαι appears only once in the New Testament, in Paul's first letter to the Corinthians:
* **[[1 Corinthians 9:18]]**: "What then is my reward? That, when I preach the gospel, I may present the gospel without charge, so as not to **make full use of** (or **abuse**) my right in the gospel."
In this passage, Paul is defending his apostolic ministry and discussing his rights as an apostle. He argues that he has the legitimate right (ἐξουσίαν ἔχω `{{G1849}}`) to receive financial support from the Corinthians for his preaching, just as a soldier, farmer, or shepherd has a right to compensation. However, he states that he has chosen *not* to exercise this right, or more precisely, not to καταχράομαι it.
The context is crucial for understanding the nuance of καταχράομαι here. Paul is not saying that the right itself is inherently wrong. Rather, he is choosing *not to use it to its full extent* or *not to take full advantage of it*, because doing so might create an obstacle for the gospel. His concern is that if he were to fully exploit his right to support, it might lead some to suspect his motives, viewing his ministry as a means of personal gain rather than selfless service. Therefore, his refusal to καταχράομαι his right is an act of self-denial aimed at ensuring the gospel is presented "without charge" (δᾰπᾰ́νην - without cost or expense) and without reproach, thereby removing any potential stumbling block to faith. The meaning here is closer to "overuse" or "taking full advantage of" a legitimate right in a way that could be detrimental to a higher purpose.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **χράομαι `{{G5530}}` (chráomai):** The base verb, meaning "to use." καταχράομαι signifies a more intense or potentially negative form of usage.
* **ἐξουσία `{{G1849}}` (exousía):** Authority, right, power. This is the very thing Paul chooses not to καταχράομαι. The relationship highlights the tension between possessing a right and the responsible exercise of that right.
* **ἀποχράομαι `{{G622}}` (apochráomai):** To be content with, to suffice. While also using χράομαι, this word carries a different prefix and semantic direction, focusing on sufficiency rather than misuse.
* **Concepts:** The word καταχράομαι is intrinsically linked to concepts such as:
* **Stewardship:** How one manages and utilizes resources, rights, or privileges.
* **Moderation and Self-Control:** The ability to restrain oneself even from legitimate actions for a greater good.
* **Expediency and Edification:** Paul's broader teaching in 1 Corinthians, where not all things that are "lawful" are "profitable" or "edifying" (σύμφερον `{{G4851}}`, οἰκοδομή `{{G3619}}`).
* **Avoiding Stumbling Blocks:** The concern that one's actions, even if permissible, might cause others to stumble (πρόσκομμα `{{G4348}}`, σκάνδαλον `{{G4625}}`).
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of καταχράομαι in the New Testament, within Paul's profound discussion of apostolic ministry and Christian liberty, imbues it with significant theological weight.
1. **Responsible Stewardship of Rights and Privileges:** The word underscores the principle that possessing a right does not automatically necessitate its full exercise. Believers are called to discern when the full use of a legitimate right might become an "overuse" or "misuse" in the broader context of God's kingdom. This speaks to a higher form of stewardship, where even personal entitlements are held in trust and evaluated against divine purposes.
2. **Love and the Priority of the Gospel:** Paul's example in [[1 Corinthians 9:18]] is a powerful illustration of self-sacrificial love. He willingly foregoes a personal right for the sake of the gospel's advancement and the spiritual well-being of others. This reflects a Christ-like attitude, where personal gain or comfort is subordinated to the mission of proclaiming the good news without hindrance. It teaches that love for God and neighbor should dictate the boundaries of our freedoms.
3. **Preventing Reproach on the Gospel:** The potential for καταχράομαι (overuse/misuse) to bring discredit upon the gospel is a key theological concern. Paul's actions ensure that the message of salvation remains "without charge" both literally (financially) and figuratively (free from suspicion of ulterior motives). This highlights the importance of integrity and blameless conduct in ministry and Christian living, so that nothing we do, even if permissible, causes the world to speak ill of Christ or His Church.
### Summary
G2710 καταχράομαι is a Greek verb signifying "to overuse," "to misuse," or "to abuse." Its sole New Testament appearance in [[1 Corinthians 9:18]] is highly instructive. Paul uses it to describe his deliberate choice not to "make full use of" or "abuse" his legitimate right to financial support as an apostle. This decision was motivated by a profound commitment to the unhindered proclamation of the gospel. The word thus encapsulates a vital theological principle: that Christian liberty and legitimate rights must be exercised with discernment, self-control, and love, always prioritizing the glory of God and the advancement of His kingdom over personal benefit or privilege, lest our actions inadvertently become a stumbling block or bring reproach upon the divine message. It serves as a call to responsible stewardship and self-sacrificial service, ensuring that the gospel remains paramount.
TRV