from a derivative of λαός and ἔργον; a public servant, i.e. a functionary in the Temple or Gospel, or (genitive case) a worshipper (of God) or benefactor (of man):--minister(-ed).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **leitourgós**, represented by `{{G3011}}`, defines a **public servant** or functionary. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible. The term's meaning derives from words for people (λαός) and work (ἔργον), highlighting a role of service, whether in the context of the Temple, the Gospel, as a worshipper of God, or a benefactor to others.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G3011}}` is applied to a wide spectrum of roles. It is used to describe heavenly beings, where God makes his angels spirits and his **ministers** a flame of fire [[Hebrews 1:7]]. It also refers to governing authorities on earth, who are called God's **ministers** and are tasked with "attending continually" to their civic duties [[Romans 13:6]]. In a priestly sense, Christ is described as a **minister** of the true sanctuary [[Hebrews 8:2]], and Paul refers to himself as a **minister** of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles [[Romans 15:16]]. The term can also describe service to fellow believers, as when Epaphroditus **ministered** to Paul's needs [[Philippians 2:25]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Greek words help clarify the nature of the service performed by a **leitourgós**:
* `{{G2418}}` **hierourgéō** (minister): Meaning to officiate as a priest, this word is used alongside `{{G3011}}` to describe Paul's work of "ministering" the gospel as a sacred offering [[Romans 15:16]].
* `{{G4342}}` **proskarteréō** (attending continually): This word emphasizes diligence and perseverance. It is used to describe how God's **ministers** `{{G3011}}` in government attend to their work [[Romans 13:6]].
* `{{G4904}}` **synergós** (companion in labour): Defined as a co-laborer or helper, this term is used for Epaphroditus in the same verse where he is called a **ministered** `{{G3011}}`, highlighting the partnership aspect of Christian service [[Philippians 2:25]].
* `{{G4961}}` **systratiṓtēs** (fellowsoldier): Meaning a co-campaigner, this term appears with `{{G3011}}` in [[Philippians 2:25]], adding the dimension of shared struggle and spiritual warfare to the work of a minister.
* `{{G652}}` **apóstolos** (apostle, messenger): As a delegate or one who is sent, this word is used to describe Epaphroditus, who was both a **messenger** to Paul and one who **ministered** to his wants [[Philippians 2:25]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3011}}` is significant, illustrating different facets of divinely appointed service.
* **Service in Sacred and Secular Spheres:** By applying the term to both government rulers [[Romans 13:6]] and ministers of the Gospel [[Romans 15:16]], Scripture indicates that God ordains and utilizes service in all areas of life.
* **A Hierarchy of Ministry:** The word encompasses a broad range of servants, from angels in heaven [[Hebrews 1:7]] to Christ as the great high priest [[Hebrews 8:2]], and to believers serving one another on earth [[Philippians 2:25]].
* **The Gospel as Priestly Work:** Paul's role as a **minister** `{{G3011}}` is explicitly connected to a priestly function, where he is "ministering" `{{G2418}}` the gospel so that the Gentiles may be an acceptable offering to God [[Romans 15:16]].
* **Diligent and Dedicated Function:** The linkage to "attending continually" `{{G4342}}` shows that the role of a `leitourgós` is not casual but requires constant, earnest application to the appointed task [[Romans 13:6]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3011}}` is a multifaceted term for a servant or functionary acting on behalf of a higher authority. It is not limited to a single type of ministry but extends from the actions of angels to the duties of earthly rulers and the sacrificial work of believers. The word **leitourgós** conveys a sense of official, dedicated service, whether carried out in a priestly, civic, or personal capacity, and is foundational to understanding the biblical concept of ministry.
TRV