### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **leitourgéō**, represented by `{{G3008}}`, means **to be a public servant** or to **minister**. It is derived from λειτουργός and encompasses the performance of religious or charitable functions. This term appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible, highlighting its specific application to acts of service.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G3008}}` is applied in three distinct contexts of service. It describes spiritual worship, as when the leaders at Antioch **ministered** to the Lord and fasted [[Acts 13:2]]. It is also used for the ritualistic duties of the Levitical priesthood, with every **priest** "daily **ministering** and offering oftentimes the same sacrifices" [[Hebrews 10:11]]. Finally, it refers to charitable support among believers, where it is the Gentiles' duty to **minister** to the Jewish saints in "carnal things" [[Romans 15:27]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of serving and ministering:
* `{{G2409}}` **hiereús** (priest): This term is explicitly linked to the act of ministering. In [[Hebrews 10:11]], it is the **priest** who performs the daily ministering.
* `{{G3522}}` **nēsteúō** (to fast): This action is directly paired with `{{G3008}}` in [[Acts 13:2]], where the disciples **ministered** to the Lord and **fasted**, showing that ministering can be an act of worship.
* `{{G3784}}` **opheílō** (to be under obligation): This word establishes that the service described in [[Romans 15:27]] is not merely a suggestion but a duty. The Gentiles' "duty is" to **minister** because they have partaken in spiritual things.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3008}}` is seen in its application to different forms of sacred service.
* **Service as Worship:** The term is used for actions directed "to the **Lord**" `{{G2962}}`, such as when the church leaders in Antioch **ministered** in a context of fasting and seeking divine guidance [[Acts 13:2]].
* **Priestly Function:** It defines the official, ritual work of a **priest** `{{G2409}}` under the Old Covenant, specifically the act of offering sacrifices [[Hebrews 10:11]].
* **Mutual Support as Duty:** The word extends to the practical care believers have for one another. The Gentiles were obligated to **minister** to their brethren in material goods, as it was their "duty is" `{{G3784}}` after having been "made partakers" `{{G2841}}` of spiritual blessings [[Romans 15:27]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3008}}` defines service in its formal and functional aspects. It is not a general term for helping but rather describes the performance of a specific religious or charitable function. Whether through direct worship offered to God, the ritual duties of a priest, or the obligatory support rendered to fellow saints, **leitourgéō** consistently refers to acting as a public servant for a sacred purpose.
TRV