The Greek word symphérō, represented by G4851, is derived from σύν (to bear together) and φέρω (to contribute). It appears 22 times in 17 verses. While it can literally mean to collect or bring together, it is most often used figuratively to mean what is advantageous, expedient, good, or profitable.
In scripture, G4851 is used to weigh costs and benefits in critical situations. Jesus explains that it is expedient for the disciples that He depart, so that the Comforter may come John 16:7. In a more stark example, He teaches that it is profitable to pluck out an offending eye rather than have the whole body cast into hell Matthew 5:29. The Apostle Paul uses this term to distinguish between Christian liberty and wisdom, stating, "All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient" (1 Corinthians 6:12, 1 Corinthians 10:23). Caiaphas the high priest prophetically declared that it was expedient for one man to die for the people, unknowingly describing the purpose of Christ's sacrifice John 18:14. The word also has a literal sense, as when those who practiced curious arts brought their books together to be burned Acts 19:19.
Several related words help clarify the meaning of G4851:
- G5288 hypostéllō (to withhold under, shun): This word is used in direct contrast to G4851. Paul states he did not shun declaring the full counsel of God, keeping back nothing that was profitable Acts 20:20.
- G3618 oikodoméō (to be a house-builder, edify): This term highlights the goal of what is profitable. Paul explains that while all things may be lawful, not all things are expedient because not all things edify 1 Corinthians 10:23.
- G4624 skandalízō (to entrap, offend): This concept creates the need to evaluate what is profitable. It is better to remove a part of the body that offends than for the whole to perish Matthew 5:29-30.
- G4982 sṓzō (to save, deliver or protect): The ultimate profitability is linked to salvation. Paul seeks the profit of the many, so that they may be saved 1 Corinthians 10:33.
The theological weight of G4851 is significant, establishing a framework for divine purpose and ethical choice.
- The Principle of Expediency: The term is central to understanding Christian ethics. An action's lawfulness is not its only measure; its profitability for spiritual growth and the edification of others is paramount (1 Corinthians 6:12, 1 Corinthians 10:23).
- Soteriological Cost: The concept of what is expedient is used to explain the logic of the atonement. It was profitable for one man to die for the nation, preventing the whole from perishing John 11:50.
- Divine Purpose in Suffering: God's discipline is not arbitrary but is for our profit, with the goal that we might become partakers of His holiness Hebrews 12:10.
- Spiritual Gifts: The gifts of the Spirit are not for personal gain but are given to every person for the collective profit of the body of Christ 1 Corinthians 12:7.
In summary, G4851 is a crucial term that moves beyond mere material gain to define ultimate spiritual advantage. It serves as a guiding principle for Christian conduct, forcing a consideration not of what is merely allowed, but of what is truly beneficial for edification, holiness, and the salvation of others. From the radical call to self-mutilation over sin to the divine logic of the crucifixion, symphérō frames a worldview based on heavenly profit and loss.
TRV