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 verb σπένδω (spéndō, `{{G4689}}`) is a primary verb whose core meaning is "to pour out." Specifically, it refers to the act of pouring out a liquid as a libation, which is a ritualistic offering to a deity. In ancient religious contexts, libations typically involved wine, oil, or water poured onto an altar, the ground, or a sacrificial victim as an act of worship, appeasement, or dedication. Figuratively, this physical act extends to the profound concept of "to devote" or "to offer" one's life or blood as a sacrifice. The English rendering "to be offered" or "to be poured out" captures this sacrificial dimension, implying a complete expenditure or surrender of oneself for a sacred purpose.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb σπένδω (spéndō, `{{G4689}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, but its single occurrence carries immense theological weight:
* **[[Philippians 2:17]]**: "But even if I am being poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you."
In this poignant passage, the Apostle Paul, writing from prison and contemplating his own potential martyrdom, employs the vivid imagery of a libation. He envisions his life, perhaps even his blood, as a "drink offering" (σπονδή, *spondē*, a related noun) being poured out. This offering is not in isolation but "upon the sacrifice and service of your faith," indicating that his suffering and potential death are not futile but rather serve to complete, accompany, or enhance the spiritual offering of the Philippian believers' faith. Paul's use of σπένδω here powerfully conveys his profound self-sacrificial commitment to Christ and the Church. He sees his impending death not as a defeat but as a priestly act, a solemn and holy offering to God, echoing the sacrificial practices of the Old Testament. His declaration of gladness and rejoicing underscores a deep spiritual understanding that such ultimate devotion is a source of joy, not sorrow.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept of σπένδω (spéndō, `{{G4689}}`) is deeply intertwined with several key biblical terms and theological ideas:
* **Libation/Drink Offering:** This directly links to the Hebrew term `{{H5262}}` (nesek), which denotes a drink offering in the Old Testament sacrificial system (e.g., [[Exodus 29:40]], [[Numbers 15:5-10]]). The pouring out of blood in sacrifice is also a prominent theme (e.g., `{{H8210}}` *shaphak*, to pour out, in [[Leviticus 4:7]]).
* **Sacrifice:** The noun `{{G2378}}` (thysia), meaning "sacrifice" or "offering," appears in the very same verse ([[Philippians 2:17]]) as Paul refers to the "sacrifice and service of your faith." This highlights the sacrificial nature of both his life and the Philippians' faith.
* **Service/Liturgy:** The word `{{G3009}}` (leitourgia), also in [[Philippians 2:17]], refers to public or cultic service, emphasizing the sacred and communal aspect of their shared faith and Paul's offering.
* **Martyrdom:** The readiness to die for one's faith, as exemplified by Paul, is a direct application of the "pouring out" of one's life.
* **Self-Denial/Devotion:** The act of σπένδω embodies complete self-giving and unwavering devotion to God's will and purposes.
* **Atonement:** While Paul applies σπένδω to himself, the ultimate act of "pouring out" is Christ's shed blood on the cross, which serves as the supreme atoning sacrifice for humanity's sins.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of σπένδω (spéndō, `{{G4689}}`) in the New Testament carries profound theological weight:
* **Participation in Christ's Suffering:** Paul's willingness to be "poured out" echoes the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, whose blood was poured out for the redemption of humanity. Paul's suffering and potential martyrdom are not merely personal hardships but a participation in the sufferings of Christ ([[Philippians 3:10]]), making his life a living sacrifice.
* **Apostolic Priesthood:** By describing his life as a drink offering, Paul elevates his apostolic ministry to a priestly act. His suffering and death are not accidental but purposeful, a sacred offering to God that contributes to the spiritual well-being of the believers. This transforms adversity into an act of worship.
* **The Cost of Discipleship:** σπένδω vividly illustrates the radical demands of following Christ. It signifies that true discipleship may require the complete surrender of one's life, even unto death, for the sake of the Gospel.
* **Joy in Sacrifice:** Paul's declaration of joy in being "poured out" reveals a profound spiritual truth: ultimate devotion and sacrifice, when motivated by love for Christ and His people, lead to profound spiritual fulfillment and joy, transcending earthly suffering.
* **Communal Nature of Faith:** The imagery of Paul's offering being poured "upon the sacrifice and service of your faith" highlights the interconnectedness of believers. His sacrifice is not isolated but complements and contributes to the spiritual offerings of the Philippian community, emphasizing the corporate body of Christ.
### Summary
The Greek verb σπένδω (spéndō, `{{G4689}}`) fundamentally means "to pour out as a libation," carrying the profound connotation of a sacrificial offering. Its sole New Testament occurrence in [[Philippians 2:17]] reveals the Apostle Paul's willingness to devote his very life as a drink offering upon the sacrifice of the Philippians' faith. This imagery connects Paul's apostolic suffering and potential martyrdom directly to the Old Testament practice of cultic sacrifice, elevating his ministry to a sacred act of devotion. Theologically, σπένδω underscores the self-sacrificial nature of Christian service, echoing the ultimate pouring out of Christ's blood for atonement, and demonstrating how human suffering can become a joyful act of worship when offered completely to God for the advancement of His kingdom. It signifies a complete and costly dedication, even unto death, for the sake of the Gospel and the spiritual well-being of the Church.
TRV