from σύν and παραλαμβάνω; to take along in company:--take with.
Transliteration:symparalambánō
Pronunciation:soom-par-al-am-ban'-o
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb συμπαραλαμβάνω (symparalambanō, `{{G4838}}`) is a compound word formed from the preposition σύν (syn, `{{G4862}}`), meaning "with" or "together," and the verb παραλαμβάνω (paralambanō, `{{G3880}}`), which means "to take alongside," "to receive," or "to assume." Therefore, the core meaning of συμπαραλαμβάνω is "to take along with oneself in company," or "to take along as a companion." This implies an active decision to include someone in a journey, mission, or shared endeavor. The word emphasizes not merely physical accompaniment but a shared purpose, an intentional inclusion into a collaborative effort, or the assumption of a joint responsibility. Its semantic range extends to concepts of partnership, assistance, and shared experience, often with a view towards mutual support or the furtherance of a common goal.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term συμπαραλαμβάνω appears four times in the New Testament, primarily in the book of Acts and Paul’s epistles, consistently referring to the inclusion of individuals in significant apostolic journeys or ministries:
* **[[Acts 12:25]]**: "And Barnabas and Saul returned from Jerusalem when they had fulfilled their mission, taking with them John, whose other name was Mark." Here, Barnabas and Saul intentionally include John Mark in their return journey, indicating his integration into their burgeoning ministry. This marks an early instance of a younger helper being "taken along" by seasoned apostles.
* **[[Acts 15:37]]**: "Barnabas wanted to take along with them John, called Mark." This verse describes the point of contention between Barnabas and Paul regarding Mark. Barnabas's desire to "take along" Mark highlights his belief in Mark's potential and his commitment to companionship in ministry, despite Mark's earlier departure.
* **[[Galatians 2:1]]**: "Then after fourteen years I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, taking Titus along with me." Paul recounts his journey to Jerusalem, where he intentionally "took along" Barnabas and Titus. This act of inclusion was strategically important, especially concerning Titus, a Gentile convert, whose presence served as a practical demonstration of the gospel's reach to the uncircumcised. His inclusion was a deliberate choice to present the fruit of their ministry and to validate their message.
* **[[2 Timothy 4:11]]**: "Luke alone is with me. Get Mark and bring him with you, for he is useful to me for ministry." This final occurrence is particularly poignant. Paul, near the end of his life and ministry, specifically requests Timothy to "take along" Mark. This request not only signifies Mark's restoration to Paul's favor after their earlier disagreement but also underscores Mark's proven utility and value for ministry. It reveals Paul's recognition of the practical need for faithful companions in the work of the gospel.
In each instance, συμπαραλαμβάνω denotes an intentional act of bringing someone into a shared endeavor, whether a journey, a mission, or a period of ministry, emphasizing their active participation and contribution.
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of συμπαραλαμβάνω is enriched by examining its constituent parts and related terms:
* **παραλαμβάνω (paralambanō, `{{G3880}}`)**: The base verb, meaning "to take alongside," "to receive," or "to assume." Without the prefix σύν, it can denote receiving a tradition, a message, or even a person into one's care. The addition of σύν emphasizes the *joint* or *shared* nature of the "taking."
* **λαμβάνω (lambanō, `{{G2983}}`)**: The fundamental verb meaning "to take" or "to receive."
* **σύν (syn, `{{G4862}}`)**: The prefix itself, indicating association, companionship, joint action, or participation. Its presence in συμπαραλαμβάνω is crucial, transforming a simple "taking" into a "taking *together with*."
* **Companionship**: The concept of having fellow travelers or workers, essential for support, accountability, and shared burden in ministry.
* **Partnership in Ministry**: The idea that Christian service is often a collaborative effort, not a solitary one, reflecting the communal nature of the body of Christ.
* **Mentorship/Discipleship**: The act of taking someone along can imply bringing a less experienced individual into a practical ministry setting for training and development.
* **Reconciliation/Restoration**: The use of the word in [[2 Timothy 4:11]] particularly highlights the theme of reconciliation, as Paul requests the very Mark with whom he had a prior disagreement, demonstrating the grace and restorative power within the Christian community.
### Theological Significance
The use of συμπαραλαμβάνω carries significant theological weight, particularly concerning the nature of Christian ministry and community:
* **The Collaborative Nature of Ministry**: The repeated instances of apostles "taking along" companions underscore the New Testament emphasis on ministry as a shared, collaborative endeavor. God's work is often accomplished through the partnership of His people, not solely through isolated individuals. This speaks to the interconnectedness of the Body of Christ, where members support and complement one another.
* **Divine Providence and Human Agency**: While God sovereignly directs His work, He often chooses to work through human agents who actively choose to include others. The decision to "take along" someone is a human choice made within the context of God's overarching plan, demonstrating the interplay between divine providence and responsible human action.
* **The Value of Companionship and Mutual Support**: The journeys and ministries described in Acts and Paul's letters were often arduous and fraught with peril. The presence of companions provided encouragement, practical assistance, and shared burdens. This highlights the theological truth that believers are not meant to labor alone but are called to bear one another's burdens and to spur one another on in faith and service.
* **Grace and Reconciliation in Relationships**: The powerful example in [[2 Timothy 4:11]] where Paul requests Mark, despite their previous conflict, is a profound theological statement. It illustrates the transformative power of the gospel to heal broken relationships and restore individuals to usefulness in ministry. It teaches that past failures or disagreements need not permanently disqualify someone from service, and that forgiveness and reconciliation are vital for the health and effectiveness of the Christian community.
* **Discipleship and Mentorship**: The act of "taking along" a younger or less experienced believer (like Mark or Titus) implies a process of practical discipleship and mentorship. It is through shared experience in ministry that skills are honed, character is formed, and the next generation of leaders is raised up.
### Summary
The Greek verb συμπαραλαμβάνω (symparalambanō, `{{G4838}}`) fundamentally means "to take along in company" or "to take along with oneself." Its usage in the New Testament consistently describes the intentional inclusion of individuals as companions in apostolic journeys and ministries. This word highlights the collaborative and communal nature of Christian service, emphasizing the importance of partnership, mutual support, and shared purpose among believers. Furthermore, its application, particularly in Paul's reconciliation with Mark, powerfully illustrates the transformative and restorative grace available within the Christian community, underscoring that past failures can be overcome for renewed usefulness in ministry. The word thus speaks to the practical outworking of Christian fellowship and the strategic importance of human companionship in the advancement of God's kingdom.
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