The Greek word metadídōmi, represented by G3330, means to give over or share. It appears 5 times across 5 unique verses in the Bible. Translated as give or impart, the term describes an active sharing that applies to both material possessions and profound spiritual realities, moving beyond simple giving to a fuller sense of partnership.
In scripture, G3330 is used to convey a generous and transformative sharing. It is used to command the sharing of basic necessities, such as when John the Baptist instructs the one with two coats to impart one to him who has none Luke 3:11. The concept is also presented as the virtuous opposite of theft; the one who used to steal is now to labor so he may have something to give to the needy Ephesians 4:28. The meaning expands beyond the material, as Paul expresses his desire to impart a spiritual gift to the Roman believers Romans 1:11. This act of giving is listed as a specific function to be done with simplicity Romans 12:8. The most profound use shows the depth of this sharing, as Paul was willing to impart not only the gospel but his own soul out of deep affection 1 Thessalonians 2:8.
Several related words help clarify the scope of G3330:
- G2192 échō: a primary verb; to hold or have. This word establishes the prerequisite for imparting; one must first have something in order to share it. This is seen in the instruction for "He that hath two coats" to impart one Luke 3:11 and the one who labors so that he may have something to give Ephesians 4:28.
- G2038 ergázomai: to toil or work. The means for giving is often generated through diligent labor. Paul connects working with the ability to give, instructing that this is the righteous way to acquire resources for sharing Ephesians 4:28.
- G5486 chárisma: a (divine) gratuity... a (spiritual) endowment... (free) gift. This term describes the nature of what can be imparted. Paul's desire is not just to share an idea, but to impart a spiritual gift to strengthen the believers in Rome Romans 1:11.
The use of G3330 highlights several core principles of Christian life and ministry.
- Practical Generosity: The term establishes a baseline of practical charity, where those who have more are expected to impart to those who have less, meeting tangible needs for food and clothing Luke 3:11.
- Restorative Labor: Giving is framed as the redemptive outcome of honest work. Instead of taking from others, one is to labor G2872 specifically to be in a position to give to those in need Ephesians 4:28.
- Spiritual Edification: The act of imparting is a key part of building up others in the faith. It can involve sharing a spiritual gift G5486 for the purpose of establishing and strengthening fellow believers Romans 1:11.
- Relational Sacrifice: At its deepest level, to impart is an act of profound love. It involves sharing not just a message or a resource, but one's very self, driven by being "affectionately desirous" G2442 of others 1 Thessalonians 2:8.
In summary, G3330 is a powerful word that captures a form of giving rooted in love and intentionality. It encompasses the sharing of both material goods and spiritual life, sourced from honest labor and a generous heart. From sharing a coat to imparting one's own soul, metadídōmi illustrates that true giving is a transformative act of sharing one's life with others.
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