### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **symmartyréō**, represented by `{{G4828}}`, means **to testify jointly, i.e. corroborate by (concurrent) evidence**. Appearing **5 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible, this term is used to describe a concurrent testimony where two or more witnesses confirm a single truth.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G4828}}` describes testimony from both divine and human sources. In Romans, it is used to describe the inner working of the **conscience** `{{G4893}}`, which **bears witness** alongside a person's thoughts to the law written on their hearts [[Romans 2:15]]. The term is also central to the assurance of salvation, where the **Spirit** `{{G4151}}` itself **beareth witness with our spirit** that we are the children of God [[Romans 8:16]]. Paul uses the word twice in one verse to emphasize his sincerity, stating that his conscience **bears him witness** in the Holy Ghost [[Romans 9:1]]. Finally, it is used in a solemn warning, to **testify** to everyone who hears the words of prophecy in the book of Revelation [[Revelation 22:18]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context in which a joint testimony occurs:
* `{{G4151}}` **pneûma** (a spirit): The divine witness that testifies alongside the believer's own spirit. In [[Romans 8:16]], the **Spirit** itself **beareth witness with our spirit**, confirming a believer's status as a child of God.
* `{{G4893}}` **syneídēsis** (conscience): The internal, moral faculty that provides a corroborating witness. The **conscience** is said to be **bearing witness** to the law of God that is written in the hearts of men [[Romans 2:15]].
* `{{G225}}` **alḗtheia** (truth): The ultimate subject of any testimony. Paul invokes his co-witnessing conscience when he declares he is speaking the **truth** in Christ and not lying [[Romans 9:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4828}}` is seen in its function of providing confirmation and assurance.
* **The Internal Witness of the Law:** The word demonstrates that all people have an internal moral compass, as their conscience **bears witness** to the work `{{G2041}}` of the **law** `{{G3551}}` written in their **hearts** `{{G2588}}`, with their thoughts either **accusing** `{{G2723}}` or **excusing** `{{G626}}` them [[Romans 2:15]].
* **Assurance of Sonship:** The most direct application is the confirmation of a believer's relationship with God. It is not a solitary hope but a joint testimony, where the Holy **Spirit** `{{G4151}}` **beareth witness with our spirit** that we **are** the **children** `{{G5043}}` of **God** `{{G2316}}` [[Romans 8:16]].
* **Apostolic Sincerity:** Paul uses the concept to establish the integrity of his message, stating he speaks the **truth** `{{G225}}` and does **not lie** `{{G5574}}`, because his **conscience** `{{G4893}}` is **bearing witness** with the **Holy** `{{G40}}` **Ghost** `{{G4151}}` [[Romans 9:1]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4828}}` is a precise term that moves beyond a single testimony to describe corroborating evidence. It illustrates a foundational principle of confirmation, whether through the internal moral witness of the **conscience**, the spiritual assurance given by the Holy **Spirit**, or the authoritative declaration of an apostle. The word connects the divine and human realms, showing how God provides a concurrent witness to affirm truth, law, and relationship.
TRV