### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kybérnēsis**, represented by `{{G2941}}`, refers to **pilotage** or **directorship**. It appears only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its base definition, derived from the concept of steering a ship, is used figuratively to denote directorship or **government** within the church.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G2941}}` is in a list of roles and spiritual gifts that God has appointed within the congregation. In this context, it is presented as a specific function established for the ordering of the church. The verse states, "And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, **governments**, diversities of tongues" [[1 Corinthians 12:28]]. Its placement alongside other foundational roles emphasizes its importance in the administrative guidance of the community.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context help clarify the function of `{{G2941}}`:
* `{{G652}}` **apóstolos** (a delegate; specially, an ambassador of the Gospel): This is the first role God **set** in the **church** `{{G1577}}`, representing foundational authority and commission from Christ [[1 Corinthians 12:28]].
* `{{G484}}` **antílēpsis** (relief:--help): Mentioned immediately before **governments**, this word signifies the supportive functions within the church. It works in tandem with the directional gift of `{{G2941}}` to ensure the congregation is cared for [[1 Corinthians 12:28]].
* `{{G5087}}` **títhēmi** (to place... appoint, ordain, set (forth)): This verb is crucial as it describes God's action of appointing these roles. It shows that **governments**, like apostleship, are divinely **ordained** positions within the church, not man-made offices [[1 Corinthians 12:28]].
* `{{G5486}}` **chárisma** (a (divine) gratuity... (spiritual) endowment... (free) gift): The role of **governments** is understood as a spiritual **gift**. This term frames directorship as a grace-given ability from God for the benefit of the church [[Romans 12:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2941}}` lies in its contribution to understanding the ordered structure of the church.
* **Divine Appointment:** The gift of **governments** is not a human construct but is something God himself has **set** `{{G5087}}` in the **church** `{{G1577}}`, establishing a divine origin for administrative leadership [[1 Corinthians 12:28]].
* **Spiritual Gifting:** By classifying **governments** among other spiritual **gifts** `{{G5486}}` like miracles and prophecy, scripture elevates administrative skill from a mere natural talent to a Spirit-endowed capacity meant for building up the body of Christ [[1 Corinthians 12:28]].
* **Functional Diversity:** The placement of **governments** in a diverse list of roles shows that directorship is one essential function among many. It works alongside prophetic `{{G4396}}`, teaching `{{G1320}}`, and supportive gifts to ensure the health and mission of the church.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2941}}` is more than a simple term for administration. It conveys the idea of skilled steering or directorship, divinely appointed for the guidance of the **church** `{{G1577}}`. Though it appears only once, its inclusion in [[1 Corinthians 12:28]] establishes that administrative leadership is a vital, God-given spiritual gift essential for the proper ordering and function of the Christian community.
TRV