### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Makedonía**, represented by `{{G3109}}`, refers to **Macedonia**, a significant region of Greece in the biblical narrative. It appears **24 times** across **22 unique verses**, primarily documenting the Apostle Paul's missionary work. This location is pivotal, marking the strategic entry of the gospel into Europe and serving as a key center for the early church's growth and fellowship.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G3109}}` is introduced through a divine call. Paul receives a **vision** `{{G3705}}` of a man of Macedonia pleading for help, which he understands as the Lord's call to preach the gospel there [[Acts 16:9-10]]. Paul's journeys frequently involve passing through **Macedonia** ([[Acts 19:21]], [[1 Corinthians 16:5]]). The region was a place of both hardship and encouragement for him; he experienced great trouble and "no rest" in his flesh [[2 Corinthians 7:5]], but it was also a place where he found dedicated partners in ministry. The churches in **Macedonia** were notable for their exemplary faith and generosity, providing financial support for the saints in Jerusalem [[Romans 15:26]] and supplying Paul's needs personally [[2 Corinthians 11:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words and places are closely associated with **Macedonia**:
* `{{G3110}}` **Makedṓn** (a Macedonian): This term refers to an inhabitant of the region. It is a man of **Macedonia** who appears to Paul in the vision that prompts his journey, saying, "Come over into **Macedonia**, and help us" [[Acts 16:9]].
* `{{G5375}}` **Phílippoi** (Philippi): This is identified as a "chief city" and colony within **Macedonia** [[Acts 16:12]]. The church in Philippi was the first to communicate with Paul concerning giving and receiving when he departed from **Macedonia** [[Philippians 4:15]].
* `{{G2842}}` **koinōnía** (contribution, fellowship): This word describes the generous financial gift the believers in **Macedonia** and Achaia made for the poor saints in Jerusalem, demonstrating their partnership in the gospel [[Romans 15:26]].
* `{{G882}}` **Achaḯa** (Achaia): This region is frequently mentioned alongside **Macedonia**. The believers in both places became ensamples to others, and their faith "sounded out" across the area [[1 Thessalonians 1:7-8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G3109}}` is demonstrated in several ways:
* **Divine Sovereignty in Mission:** The story of **Macedonia** begins with a direct, supernatural call from God. The vision to Paul underscores that the expansion of the gospel is not driven by human strategy but by divine guidance and purpose [[Acts 16:10]].
* **Exemplary Faith and Generosity:** The churches of **Macedonia** are presented as a model of Christian character. They are praised for their grace, joy, and liberal giving despite their own "deep poverty" [[2 Corinthians 8:1]]. Their support for other believers became an **ensample** `{{G5179}}` for all [[1 Thessalonians 1:7]].
* **The Spreading of the Gospel:** **Macedonia** became a vital hub from which the **word** `{{G3056}}` of the Lord "sounded out" `{{G1837}}`. This highlights the principle of the gospel taking root in one area and then spreading organically through the testimony and faith of its new believers [[1 Thessalonians 1:8]].
### Summary
In summary, **Makedonía** `{{G3109}}` is far more than a geographical setting in the New Testament. It is a testament to God's strategic direction in spreading the gospel into new territories. Through Paul's ministry there, it becomes a symbol of faithful response to the divine call, enduring through affliction, and expressing Christian **love** `{{G26}}` and **fellowship** `{{G2842}}` through remarkable generosity. The narrative of **Macedonia** illustrates how God establishes and uses communities of believers to advance His kingdom.
TRV