### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adjective σύμμορφος (sýmmorphos, `{{G4832}}`) is a compound word formed from σύν (syn), meaning "with" or "together," and μορφή (morphē, `{{G3444}}`), meaning "form," "shape," or "outward appearance," often implying the essential character or nature. Therefore, the core meaning of σύμμορφος is "having the same form with," "conformed to," or "fashioned like unto." It denotes a deep, intrinsic similarity or identity in form, character, or destiny, rather than a superficial resemblance. The "form" implied by μορφή is not merely external shape but refers to the underlying nature or essence that gives something its distinct character. Thus, σύμμορφος suggests a profound alignment or shared identity in terms of pattern, design, or essential being.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
σύμμορφος appears twice in the New Testament, both times in the Pauline epistles, underscoring its significant theological weight for the apostle Paul.
1. **[[Romans 8:29]]**: "For those God foreknew he also predestined to be *conformed to the image* of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters."
In this foundational theological statement, σύμμορφος describes the ultimate purpose of God's predestination for believers. The goal is to be "conformed to the image (εἰκών, `{{G1504}}`) of his Son." This conformity is not merely an ethical imitation but a profound transformation into the very character, moral likeness, and divine nature of Christ. It speaks to a restoration of the image of God in humanity, now perfectly embodied in Jesus Christ. This conformity is both a present process of sanctification and a future teleological goal, signifying a deep, spiritual alignment with the Son.
2. **[[Philippians 3:21]]**: "who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be *conformed to his glorious body*."
Here, σύμμορφος is used in an eschatological context, referring to the future resurrection of believers. Our "lowly body" (σῶμα τῆς ταπεινώσεως, `{{G4983}}` `{{G5014}}`) will be transformed to be "conformed to his glorious body" (σῶμα τῆς δόξης αὐτοῦ, `{{G4983}}` `{{G1391}}`). This signifies a physical, yet spiritualized, transformation, where the resurrected bodies of believers will share the attributes of Christ's post-resurrection, glorified body – immortality, incorruptibility, and power. This future physical conformity is the culmination of the spiritual conformity described in Romans, demonstrating God's comprehensive redemptive plan.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **μορφή (morphē, `{{G3444}}`)**: The root word, meaning "form" or "shape," often implying the essential nature or character. It is famously used of Christ's divine nature ("form of God") and his incarnation ("form of a servant") in [[Philippians 2:6-7]].
* **εἰκών (eikōn, `{{G1504}}`)**: "Image," "likeness." In [[Romans 8:29]], believers are conformed to the εἰκών of Christ. While μορφή emphasizes intrinsic nature, εἰκών highlights representation or resemblance. The goal is to become σύμμορφος to Christ's εἰκών.
* **μεταμορφόω (metamorphoō, `{{G3339}}`)**: "To transform," "to change into another form." Used of Christ's transfiguration ([[Matthew 17:2]]; [[Mark 9:2]]) and the believer's spiritual transformation ([[Romans 12:2]]; [[2 Corinthians 3:18]]). σύμμορφος describes the desired *result* or *goal* of this transformative process.
* **ὁμοιόω (homoioō, `{{G3666}}`)**: "To make like," "to resemble." A more general term for similarity. σύμμορφος implies a deeper, more essential, and inherent conformity rather than just a superficial resemblance.
* **σύσχημα (syschēma, `{{G4976}}`)**: "Conformed to," "having the same fashion." Used in [[Romans 12:2]] in the negative: "Do not be συσχηματιζόμενοι (conformed) to this world." This refers to outward conformity to worldly patterns or external appearances. In contrast, σύμμορφος points to an inward, essential, and Spirit-wrought conformity to Christ's nature.
### Theological Significance
The concept of σύμμορφος is profoundly significant in Pauline theology, encapsulating both the present work of sanctification and the future hope of glorification for believers.
1. **Divine Purpose and Predestination**: [[Romans 8:29]] reveals that conformity to Christ is not a mere possibility but a preordained, deliberate purpose of God for those He foreknew. This underscores God's sovereign will and grace in the salvation and transformation of His people, initiating and completing this profound work.
2. **Christ as the Archetype**: Jesus Christ is presented as the ultimate pattern and goal for humanity. To be σύμμορφος to Him means to share in His character, holiness, and ultimately, His glorified state. He is the "firstborn among many brothers and sisters," establishing the divine blueprint for all who are united with Him.
3. **Holistic Transformation**: σύμμορφος implies a comprehensive conformity. In [[Romans 8:29]], it speaks to spiritual and moral transformation, becoming like Christ in character and righteousness. In [[Philippians 3:21]], it extends to the physical body, anticipating a resurrection body that mirrors Christ's glorious body. This signifies that God's redemptive work encompasses the entirety of the human person – spirit, soul, and body – restoring them to their intended design.
4. **Eschatological Hope**: The future conformity of our bodies to Christ's glorious body offers profound hope and assurance. It guarantees believers a future state free from sin, decay, and death, fully participating in the resurrected life of Christ. This future hope serves as a powerful motivation for present perseverance and spiritual growth.
5. **Distinction from Worldly Conformity**: The positive command to be σύμμορφος to Christ stands in stark contrast to the negative command not to be συσχηματιζόμενοι (conformed) to the world's patterns ([[Romans 12:2]]). While the latter warns against superficial, outward imitation of worldly values, σύμμορφος denotes a deep, intrinsic, and Spirit-wrought transformation into the very essence of Christ's likeness.
### Summary
The Greek word σύμμορφος (sýmmorphos, `{{G4832}}`) profoundly signifies a deep and essential conformity, derived from the components σύν ("with") and μορφή ("form"). It encapsulates God's divine purpose for believers to be "conformed to the image of His Son" ([[Romans 8:29]]), representing a spiritual and moral transformation into Christ's character and likeness. This conformity is not a superficial imitation but an inward, Spirit-led alignment with Christ's very nature. Furthermore, σύμμορφος extends to the eschatological hope that our "lowly bodies" will be "conformed to his glorious body" ([[Philippians 3:21]]), assuring believers of a future physical resurrection that mirrors the attributes of Christ's resurrected state. Thus, σύμμορφος articulates both the present journey of sanctification and the ultimate hope of glorification, revealing God's comprehensive plan to transform His people into the full likeness of His Son, who is the perfect archetype for redeemed humanity.
TRV