from σύν and φέρω (including its alternate); to bear together (contribute), i.e. (literally) to collect, or (figuratively) to conduce; especially (neuter participle as a noun) advantage:--be better for, bring together, be expedient (for), be good, (be) profit(-able for).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb συμφέρω (`{{G4851}}`, *symphérō*) is a compound word derived from the preposition σύν (*syn*), meaning "with" or "together," and the verb φέρω (*phérō*), meaning "to bear," "carry," or "bring." Literally, therefore, *symphérō* means "to bear together" or "to bring together." This foundational sense can extend to "collect" or "gather."
However, its more prevalent and significant usage in the New Testament is figurative, denoting what is "advantageous," "profitable," "beneficial," or "expedient." It often appears impersonally (e.g., συμφέρει, "it is expedient/profitable") to describe something that serves a particular purpose or yields a desired outcome. This semantic range encompasses both practical utility and moral or spiritual advantage. The neuter participle can also function as a noun, signifying "advantage" or "profit."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term *symphérō* appears in various contexts within the New Testament, revealing its nuanced application:
* **Political/Self-Serving Expediency:** In [[John 11:50]], Caiaphas, the high priest, cynically declares concerning Jesus, "It is better for you that one man should die for the people, and that the whole nation should not perish." Here, *symphérō* (rendered "better for you") signifies a perceived political or pragmatic advantage, prioritizing national preservation over individual justice, even if it meant an unjust execution. This highlights a human, often flawed, understanding of "expediency."
* **Divine/Spiritual Benefit:** Contrasting sharply with Caiaphas's use, Jesus employs *symphérō* in [[John 16:7]] when speaking to His disciples about His departure: "Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you. But if I go, I will send Him to you." Here, Jesus asserts that His physical absence is genuinely beneficial and necessary for the coming of the Holy Spirit, which is truly for the disciples' spiritual good and empowerment.
* **Ethical Profitability in Christian Liberty:** Paul frequently uses *symphérō* in his discussions on Christian liberty, particularly in 1 Corinthians. In [[1 Corinthians 6:12]] and [[1 Corinthians 10:23]], he states, "All things are lawful for me, but not all things are profitable (*symphérō*)." This profound ethical principle teaches that while believers may have freedom in Christ, not every permissible action is beneficial, either for the individual or the community. The criterion for action moves beyond mere legality to what truly builds up and serves the greater good of the body of Christ.
* **God's Purpose in Discipline:** In [[Hebrews 12:10]], the author contrasts earthly fathers disciplining their children "for a short time as seemed best to them" with God's discipline of believers, which is "for our profit (*symphérō*), that we may share in His holiness." Here, *symphérō* underscores the ultimate, sanctifying purpose of divine discipline, demonstrating God's benevolent intent even in corrective measures.
* **Practical Advantage:** Paul also uses *symphérō* in a more practical sense, as in [[2 Corinthians 8:10]], where he encourages the Corinthians in their giving, stating that their earlier readiness "is profitable for you." This refers to the benefit, both spiritual and perhaps reputational, of their commitment to generosity.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **`{{G5623}}` ὠφελέω (*ōpheleō*):** To benefit, profit, be useful. This term is closely synonymous with *symphérō*, often interchangeable in meaning "to be advantageous." However, *symphérō* can carry a stronger nuance of "conducive to" or "expedient for," implying a specific outcome or purpose.
* **`{{G2771}}` κέρδος (*kerdos*):** Gain, profit. While *kerdos* often relates to financial or material gain, *symphérō* can encompass a broader range of benefits, including spiritual and ethical.
* **`{{G5539}}` χρήσιμος (*chrēsimos*):** Useful, profitable. This adjective describes something that is fit for use or beneficial.
* **Antonyms/Contrasting Concepts:** The opposite of *symphérō* would be something detrimental, harmful, or unprofitable. Concepts like "stumbling block" (σκάνδαλον, `{{G4625}}`) or "causing to fall" stand in direct opposition to the edifying and beneficial nature implied by *symphérō* in ethical contexts.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of *symphérō* is profound, particularly in its contrast between human and divine perspectives on "expediency" or "profit."
1. **Divine vs. Human Expediency:** The juxtaposition of Caiaphas's use in John 11 and Jesus's use in John 16 reveals a crucial theological distinction. Human expediency, often driven by self-preservation, political gain, or short-sighted goals, can lead to moral compromise and injustice. Divine expediency, however, is always rooted in perfect wisdom, love, and redemptive purpose, even when it involves suffering or sacrifice. What is truly "advantageous" from God's perspective always aligns with His holy character and His ultimate plan for humanity's good.
2. **The Nature of True Benefit:** The New Testament teaches that true benefit is not merely what feels good or is convenient, but what aligns with God's will and contributes to spiritual growth and holiness. God's discipline, for example, is *symphérō* because it leads to participation in His holiness (Hebrews 12:10). This redefines "advantage" from a worldly, temporal perspective to an eternal, spiritual one.
3. **Ethical Discernment and Christian Liberty:** Paul's use of *symphérō* in 1 Corinthians provides a foundational principle for Christian ethics. It moves beyond a legalistic "what is permissible?" to a higher standard of "what is profitable for building up the body of Christ?" This calls believers to exercise discernment and love, prioritizing the edification of others and the glory of God over personal rights or desires. It underscores that Christian freedom is not license, but a call to responsible, beneficial living.
4. **God's Sovereign Purpose:** The concept implies that God's actions, even those that seem difficult or counter-intuitive (like Jesus' departure), are ultimately for the *symphérō* of His people. This reinforces trust in God's perfect plan and His unwavering commitment to the good of those who love Him.
### Summary
The Greek word συμφέρω (`{{G4851}}`, *symphérō*) fundamentally means "to bear together" but predominantly signifies "to be advantageous," "profitable," or "expedient." Its usage in the New Testament highlights a critical distinction between human, often self-serving, expediency and divine, truly beneficial purposes. While humans may deem actions "profitable" for short-term gain or political stability (as seen in Caiaphas's statement), God's actions and commands are always for the ultimate spiritual and eternal *symphérō* of His people, leading to holiness and true flourishing. Furthermore, *symphérō* serves as a crucial ethical guide for believers, challenging them to consider not merely what is permissible, but what is genuinely beneficial and edifying for the community and for God's glory.
TRV