### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **sympresbýteros**, represented by `{{G4850}}`, is defined as a **co-presbyter** or an **elder**. It is formed from the words σύν and πρεσβύτερος. This specific term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, highlighting its specialized use to denote a shared status among church leaders.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G4850}}` appears in [[1 Peter 5:1]], where the author exhorts the elders. He establishes his credentials and rapport by identifying himself as **"also an elder"** `{{G4850}}`. This act of identifying as a co-presbyter frames his instruction not as a command from a superior but as an encouragement from a peer. The author further defines this shared role by stating he is also a **"witness"** of the sufferings of Christ and a **"partaker"** of the glory to be revealed, linking the identity of a co-elder to a common experience and a shared future hope [[1 Peter 5:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context help clarify the meaning of a co-presbyter:
* `{{G4245}}` **presbýteros** (elder): This is the base word from which `{{G4850}}` is derived. It refers to an older person or a senior leader, such as a Christian "presbyter." This title commands respect and submission from the younger members of the community [[1 Peter 5:5]].
* `{{G3144}}` **mártys** (witness): A co-elder is described as a witness. This term refers to someone who has observed events, either literally or figuratively. The author of 1 Peter grounds his authority in being a witness of Christ's sufferings [[1 Peter 5:1]], a role also given to the disciples who would be witnesses to the ends of the earth [[Acts 1:8]].
* `{{G2844}}` **koinōnós** (partaker): This word means a sharer or associate. It emphasizes the fellowship and shared destiny of believers. A co-elder is a partaker in the coming glory [[1 Peter 5:1]], just as believers can be partakers of sufferings [[2 Corinthians 1:7]] or even the divine nature [[2 Peter 1:4]].
* `{{G3870}}` **parakaléō** (exhort): This is the action the author takes as a co-elder. It means to call near, beseech, or give exhortation. This shows that the role of a co-presbyter involves encouraging and building up fellow leaders and believers [[Hebrews 10:25]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4850}}` is centered on the nature of Christian leadership and community.
* **Leadership as Fellowship:** By identifying as a **co-presbyter**, the author models a form of leadership based on partnership rather than a rigid hierarchy. He exhorts his fellow elders from a position of shared identity and responsibility.
* **Grounded in Shared Experience:** The authority of a co-elder is not merely positional but experiential. It is tied directly to being a **witness `{{G3144}}`** of the **sufferings `{{G3804}}`** of **Christ `{{G5547}}`**, rooting leadership in a common journey of faith and trial.
* **Motivated by Shared Hope:** The role is forward-looking, defined by being a **partaker `{{G2844}}`** of the **glory `{{G1391}}`** that will be revealed [[1 Peter 5:1]]. This shared hope serves as the foundation and motivation for enduring present responsibilities and afflictions.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4850}}` is a potent term that, despite its single appearance, provides a profound insight into biblical leadership. It defines an elder's role not in isolation but in relation to others, emphasizing a shared journey. A **co-presbyter** is one who leads alongside others, unified by a common testimony of Christ's past sufferings and a common hope in His future glory.
TRV