from λόγος (in the commercial sense); a contribution:--collection, gathering.
Transliteration:logía
Pronunciation:log-ee'-ah
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term λογία (logía, `{{G3048}}`) is derived from λόγος (logos, `{{G3056}}`), specifically drawing upon its commercial or accounting sense rather than its more common meaning of "word" or "reason." In this context, λογία denotes a "collection," "contribution," or "gathering." The underlying concept is one of a calculated or accounted sum, implying an organized and systematic accumulation of resources. It is not merely a random gathering but a deliberate collection, often for a specific purpose or beneficiary. The semantic range is thus confined to monetary or material contributions made in an orderly fashion.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term λογία appears only twice in the New Testament, both instances occurring within the same passage in Paul's First Epistle to the Corinthians:
* [[1 Corinthians 16:1]]: "Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I directed the churches of Galatia, so you also are to do." (περὶ δὲ τῆς λογίας τῆς εἰς τοὺς ἁγίους)
* [[1 Corinthians 16:2]]: "On the first day of every week, each of you is to put aside and save whatever he can afford, so that there will be no collections when I come." (ἵνα μὴ ὅταν ἔλθω τότε λογίαι γίνωνται)
In this context, Paul is giving specific instructions to the Corinthian church regarding a financial collection intended to support the impoverished believers in Jerusalem. The use of λογία here is highly significant. Paul emphasizes a regular, systematic approach ("On the first day of every week, each of you is to put aside and save whatever he can afford"). This method ensures that the collection is not haphazard or burdensome upon his arrival but is instead a well-managed, ongoing effort. The plural form in [[1 Corinthians 16:2]] ("no collections") suggests the avoidance of multiple, chaotic, or last-minute efforts, reinforcing the need for organized, individual contributions over time. The purpose is clearly stated: to alleviate the financial distress of the saints in Jerusalem, demonstrating practical Christian charity and inter-church support.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of λογία is enriched by its relationship to several other biblical terms and concepts:
* **λόγος (logos, `{{G3056}}`):** As the root, its commercial sense of "account," "reckoning," or "calculation" directly informs λογία as an *accounted* contribution.
* **δωρεά (dorea, `{{G1431}}`):** While λογία refers to the act of collecting, the contributions themselves are a form of gift or offering.
* **εὐλογία (eulogia, `{{G2129}}`):** Often translated as "blessing," it can also refer to a material gift or generous contribution, conceptually linking to the *outcome* or *spirit* of the collection.
* **κοινωνία (koinonia, `{{G2842}}`):** Fellowship, sharing, participation. The act of making a λογία is a tangible expression of koinonia between different Christian communities and among believers.
* **διακονία (diakonia, `{{G1248}}`):** Service, ministry. The collection and its distribution are forms of practical service within the body of Christ.
* **προσφορά (prosphora, `{{G4376}}`):** Offering, presentation. While broader, λογία is a specific type of offering made for a particular need.
* **Stewardship (οἰκονομία, oikonomia, `{{G3622}}`):** The systematic nature of the λογία underscores the principle of responsible management of resources entrusted by God.
### Theological Significance
The λογία in 1 Corinthians holds profound theological significance:
* **Practical Charity and Love:** It embodies the New Testament's emphasis on practical love (ἀγάπη, agape, `{{G26}}`) and mutual aid within the Christian community. The collection for the saints in Jerusalem was a tangible demonstration of solidarity and compassion for fellow believers in need.
* **Unity of the Body of Christ:** The initiative for Gentile churches to support Jewish believers highlights the essential unity of the church across geographical, ethnic, and cultural divides. It underscores the concept that when one part of the body suffers, all suffer with it ([[1 Corinthians 12:26]]).
* **Systematic Stewardship:** Paul's instruction for regular, systematic giving ([[1 Corinthians 16:2]]) promotes the biblical principle of stewardship. It encourages believers to thoughtfully and intentionally manage their resources, giving in proportion to their prosperity, rather than impulsively or reluctantly. This reflects a disciplined approach to Christian living and financial responsibility.
* **Giving as an Act of Worship:** By instructing the collection to be made "on the first day of every week," Paul implicitly links the act of giving to corporate worship. It suggests that financial contribution is not merely a secular transaction but an integral part of the believer's devotion and participation in the life of the church, offered to God.
* **Evangelistic Witness:** The generosity of the Gentile churches would also serve as a powerful witness to the transforming power of the Gospel, demonstrating genuine love and concern that transcended previous societal divisions.
### Summary
The Greek term λογία (logía, `{{G3048}}`) denotes a "collection" or "contribution," specifically one that is organized and accounted for. Its two occurrences in [[1 Corinthians 16:1-2]] reveal its primary usage in the context of a systematic financial gathering for the benefit of the saints in Jerusalem. Theologically, λογία underscores the early church's commitment to practical charity, demonstrating the unity of the body of Christ through mutual support. It promotes principles of disciplined stewardship and integrates financial giving as a regular and vital component of Christian worship and communal life. The word highlights not just the act of giving, but the intentional, orderly nature of such contributions within the Christian fellowship.
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