apparently a primary verb; to pour out as a libation, i.e. (figuratively) to devote (one's life or blood, as a sacrifice) ("spend"):--(be ready to) be offered.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **spéndō**, represented by `{{G4689}}`, means to **pour out as a libation**, and is used figuratively to **devote (one's life or blood, as a sacrifice)**. It appears **3 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, carrying the potent image of a life being **offered** in complete dedication.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G4689}}` is used by the Apostle Paul to describe his own life as a sacrificial offering. In Philippians, he expresses a willingness to be **offered** upon the "sacrifice and service" of the believers' faith [[Philippians 2:17]]. In his later writing to Timothy, he uses the term to signify the end of his life's work, stating, "I am now ready to be **offered**, and the time of my departure is at hand" [[2 Timothy 4:6]]. In both instances, the word portrays a life poured out for the sake of the gospel.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the context of being poured out as an offering:
* `{{G2378}}` **thysía**: This word for **sacrifice (the act or the victim, literally or figuratively)** is the foundation upon which Paul is willing to be offered [[Philippians 2:17]]. It is also used to exhort believers to present their bodies as a living **sacrifice** [[Romans 12:1]].
* `{{G3009}}` **leitourgía**: Meaning **public function (as priest ("liturgy") or almsgiver)**, this term for **service** is paired with **thysía** to describe the believers' faith, which Paul's life complements [[Philippians 2:17]].
* `{{G4102}}` **pístis**: Paul’s offering is made upon the service of the Philippians' **faith**, which is defined as **persuasion, i.e. credence; moral conviction** [[Philippians 2:17]]. It is a cornerstone concept, as without **faith** it is impossible to please God [[Hebrews 11:6]].
* `{{G359}}` **análysis**: This word for **departure** is directly connected to being offered. Paul's readiness to be poured out as a sacrifice signals that the time for his **departure** has come [[2 Timothy 4:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4689}}` is profound, highlighting the nature of Christian commitment.
* **Life as a Libation:** The core imagery is of a drink offering poured out completely. Paul uses this to frame his potential death as the ultimate act of devotion, given for the sake of the Philippians' **faith** `{{G4102}}` and **service** `{{G3009}}` [[Philippians 2:17]].
* **Joy in Self-Sacrifice:** Being **offered** is not presented as a grim necessity but as a source of gladness. Paul states that in this act, "I **joy** `{{G5463}}`, and **rejoice with** `{{G4796}}` you all," demonstrating that ultimate sacrifice can be a shared, joyful experience [[Philippians 2:17]].
* **The Culmination of Service:** The term is used to mark the end of a faithful ministry. In declaring he is "ready to be **offered**," Paul signals the completion of his life's work and the imminent arrival of his **departure** `{{G359}}` [[2 Timothy 4:6]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4689}}` **spéndō** is far more than a simple verb; it is a powerful metaphor for a life wholly consecrated to God. Though rare, its use by Paul provides a defining image of Christian service as a joyful, sacrificial offering poured out for the strengthening of others' faith. It encapsulates the idea of a life given over so completely that its end becomes the final, triumphant act of worship.
TRV