The Greek word symmimētḗs, represented by G4831, is defined as a "co-imitator, i.e. fellow votary." It is derived from a presumed compound of words meaning "together" and "to imitate." This term appears only 1 time in the entire Bible, highlighting a specific and focused concept of shared imitation.
The single use of G4831 is found in Philippians 3:17, where the Apostle Paul exhorts the believers: "Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample." In this context, the word is not just about individual imitation, but a collective, communal effort to follow the same pattern. The believers are called to jointly imitate Paul and his companions, who serve as a living model for the Christian walk.
Several related words in the same verse clarify the meaning of being a "follower together":
- G80 adelphós (a brother): The address to the audience as "Brethren" grounds the command in a context of familial, shared identity Philippians 3:17.
- G1096 gínomai (to become): The command is to "be followers together," which means to actively become or come into being as a co-imitator, rather than passively observing Philippians 3:17.
- G4648 skopéō (to take aim at, regard, mark): This action is paired with being a follower together. Believers are to actively mark or observe those who live out the proper example, reinforcing the pattern of imitation Philippians 3:17.
- G4043 peripatéō (to walk, live, deport oneself): This refers to the conduct or lifestyle that is to be imitated. The imitation is of a practical, daily "walk" Philippians 3:17.
- G5179 týpos (a model for imitation, pattern, example): This is the standard or pattern to be copied. Paul presents himself and his companions as the "ensample" for the believers to follow Philippians 3:17.
The theological weight of G4831 is significant despite its single appearance, establishing a clear model for discipleship.
- Corporate Imitation: The word emphasizes that Christian growth is a community project. Believers are to be "followers together," reinforcing one another by looking to the same godly examples.
- Observable Discipleship: The instruction is not abstract. It is tied to the concrete actions of "marking" G4648 those who "walk" G4043 correctly, highlighting the importance of visible, lived-out faith as a guide for others.
- The Apostolic Pattern: The apostle sets himself as an "ensample" G5179, establishing a principle where believers learn and mature by following the pattern of faithful leaders who themselves are following Christ.
In summary, G4831 is a precise and potent term. Though used only once, symmimētḗs powerfully conveys that Christian discipleship is not a solitary endeavor but a shared journey. Its use in Philippians 3:17 inextricably links the concept of communal imitation with the necessity of having and observing a tangible, godly "ensample" to guide the community's "walk."
TRV