### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun λῆμψις (lēmpsis, `{{G3028}}`) is derived from the verb λαμβάνω (lambanō, `{{G2983}}`), which carries a broad semantic range including "to take," "to receive," "to grasp," or "to obtain." Consequently, λῆμψις fundamentally signifies the *act* of receiving or taking. It denotes the process or event of coming into possession of something, whether a gift, a payment, or any item transferred. While λαμβάνω can refer to the *action* of taking or receiving, λῆμψις specifically emphasizes the *receipt* as a completed or ongoing act. Its core meaning is thus "receipt" or "receiving," emphasizing the transaction or event from the perspective of the recipient.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term λῆμψις (lēmpsis, `{{G3028}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in the Apostle Paul's letter to the Philippians: [[Philippians 4:15]]. In this passage, Paul commends the Philippian church for their exceptional generosity and partnership in his ministry: "Now you Philippians know also that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church shared with me concerning giving and receiving but you only."
The crucial phrase here is "giving and receiving" (δόσις καὶ λῆμψις).
* δόσις (dosis, `{{G1394}}`) means "giving" or "a gift."
* λῆμψις (lēmpsis, `{{G3028}}`) refers to Paul's act of "receiving" their financial contributions.
The context is undeniably financial partnership. The Philippians were unique among the churches Paul ministered to in that they engaged in a consistent and robust exchange of resources with him. Their "giving" (δόσις) was met by Paul's "receiving" (λῆμψις), which enabled his continued proclamation of the gospel. This highlights a practical, transactional aspect of their relationship, framing it as an account where both giving and receiving are recorded. It underscores the vital role of material support in sustaining apostolic ministry.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **λαμβάνω (lambanō, `{{G2983}}`):** As the root verb, understanding λαμβάνω is essential. It encompasses various forms of "taking" or "receiving," from receiving the Holy Spirit to receiving a reward. λῆμψις is the nominalized *act* of this broader concept.
* **δόσις (dosis, `{{G1394}}`):** This word is the direct counterpart to λῆμψις in [[Philippians 4:15]], meaning "giving." The pairing "giving and receiving" forms a complete cycle of exchange, emphasizing the reciprocal nature of the Philippians' partnership with Paul.
* **δῶρον (dōron, `{{G1435}}`), δόμα (doma, `{{G1390}}`), χάρις (charis, `{{G5485}}`):** While λῆμψις denotes the *act* of receiving, these words refer to the *gift* itself or the *grace* involved in the giving. For example, the Philippians' financial aid was a δῶρον (gift) received by Paul, motivated by χάρις (grace).
* **κοινωνία (koinōnia, `{{G2842}}`):** The broader concept of "fellowship" or "partnership" in which the Philippians participated with Paul ([[Philippians 1:5]]) provides the theological framework for their "giving and receiving." The financial δόσις and λῆμψις were concrete expressions of their spiritual κοινωνία in the gospel.
### Theological Significance
While λῆμψις (lēmpsis) in its sole New Testament occurrence refers to a human financial transaction, it carries significant theological implications:
* **Divine Economy and Provision:** The concept of "receiving" ultimately points to God as the ultimate Giver ([[James 1:17]]). All good things, including salvation, grace, spiritual gifts, and even material provision, are received from His hand. The human act of λῆμψις in ministry reflects a dependence on God's provision, often mediated through His people.
* **Reciprocity in Christian Community:** The "giving and receiving" model in [[Philippians 4:15]] highlights the essential reciprocity within the body of Christ. Ministry is not a one-way street, but a dynamic partnership where individuals and churches contribute and receive in various forms—spiritual blessings for material support, and vice-versa. Paul's λῆμψις of financial aid enabled his δόσις of spiritual truth.
* **Humility in Receiving:** For Paul, who often emphasized self-sufficiency to avoid being a burden ([[1 Thessalonians 2:9]]), his willingness to engage in λῆμψις from the Philippians demonstrates a humble acceptance of their partnership and God's provision through them. It dignifies the act of receiving as a necessary component of ministry, just as much as the act of giving.
* **Legitimacy of Ministry Support:** The explicit mention of λῆμψις in the context of Paul's ministry support provides a biblical precedent for the financial sustenance of those dedicated to full-time gospel work. It frames such support not merely as charity, but as a vital and legitimate part of the shared enterprise of advancing the Kingdom.
### Summary
The Greek noun λῆμψις (lēmpsis, `{{G3028}}`) signifies "the act of receiving" or "receipt." Its single occurrence in the New Testament, in [[Philippians 4:15]], is within the phrase "giving and receiving" (δόσις καὶ λῆμψις), specifically referring to Paul's act of receiving financial support from the Philippian church. Derived from λαμβάνω (to take/receive, `{{G2983}}`), λῆμψις highlights the practical and transactional aspect of partnership in ministry, where material contributions enable the propagation of the gospel. Theologically, this word underscores principles of divine provision, the necessary reciprocity within the Christian community, the humility inherent in accepting support, and the legitimate need for financial sustenance for those engaged in full-time ministry. It portrays the dynamic interplay between giving and receiving as an indispensable component for the flourishing of God's redemptive work.
TRV