The Greek name Klḗmēs, represented by G2815, is of Latin origin and means merciful. It refers to a Christian named Clemes, or Clement. This name appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible, marking it as a specific reference to an individual.
The sole appearance of G2815 is in Philippians 4:3. In this verse, the author makes an appeal to a "true yokefellow" to help certain women who laboured with him in the gospel. Clement is named in this same context, listed alongside these women and other fellowlabourers. The passage concludes with the profound statement that the names of these individuals are "in the book of life" Philippians 4:3.
The context of Clement's mention in Philippians 4:3 is enriched by several related words that describe the nature of their shared work:
- G2065 erōtáō (to interrogate; by implication, to request:--ask, beseech, desire, intreat, pray): This word is used for the appeal to "intreat" the yokefellow for assistance.
- G4815 syllambánō (to clasp, i.e. seize (arrest, capture); specially, to conceive (literally or figuratively); by implication, to aid:--catch, conceive, help, take): This describes the requested action to "help" the women who worked with Paul.
- G4866 synathléō (to wrestle in company with, i.e. (figuratively) to seek jointly:--labour with, strive together for): This term highlights the intensive, collaborative effort of those who "laboured with" Paul in the gospel.
- G4904 synergós (a co-laborer, i.e. coadjutor:--companion in labour, (fellow-)helper(-labourer, -worker), labourer together with, workfellow): Clement is explicitly identified as one of these "fellowlabourers."
The theological weight of G2815 is derived entirely from its context in Philippians 4:3.
- Partnership in the Gospel: Clement is presented as a synergós, or "fellowlabourer" G4904. This highlights the biblical model of shared ministry and striving together for the faith of the gospel Philippians 1:27.
- Corporate Effort: The mention of Clement alongside women and other unnamed colleagues emphasizes the communal nature of early Christian work, where various individuals contributed to the spread of the gospel.
- Assurance of Eternal Life: The most significant theological point is the declaration that Clement's name, along with his coworkers, is written "in the book of life" Philippians 4:3. This serves as a powerful statement of assurance and the eternal value God places on his faithful servants.
In summary, G2815 refers specifically to Clement, a Christian mentioned once in Scripture. While the name itself is not explored, its singular appearance in Philippians 4:3 places Clement at the heart of key New Testament themes. He is remembered as a devoted fellowlabourer in the gospel, and his inclusion illustrates the importance of mutual support in ministry and the profound assurance that the names of God's faithful workers are recorded in the book of life.
TRV