### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb συμφωνέω (symphōnéō, `{{G4856}}`) is derived from the adjective σύμφωνος (sýmphōnos, `{{G4859}}`), which literally means "sounding together" or "harmonious." This etymological root provides the foundational sense of the word: a state of agreement, accord, or consonance. Figuratively, its semantic range extends to encompass several nuances:
1. **General Agreement/Concurrence:** To be in harmony, to agree in opinion or sentiment, to be suitable or consistent with something. This implies a shared understanding or perspective.
2. **Formal Stipulation/Compact:** To enter into a binding agreement, contract, or covenant. This usage carries a more legal or transactional weight, signifying a mutual understanding that creates an obligation.
The core idea is the coming together of disparate elements into a unified or agreed-upon state, whether in sound, thought, or formal arrangement.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb συμφωνέω (symphōnéō, `{{G4856}}`) appears five times in the New Testament, illustrating its diverse applications:
* **Matthew 18:19:** "Again I say to you, if two of you agree [[Matthew 18:19]] on earth about anything they ask, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven." Here, the word signifies a spiritual agreement or unity in prayer. It emphasizes the power and efficacy of corporate prayer when believers are in accord, not merely in a superficial sense, but in a shared spiritual purpose and faith.
* **Matthew 20:2:** "When he had agreed [[Matthew 20:2]] with the laborers for a denarius a day, he sent them into his vineyard."
* **Matthew 20:13:** "But he replied to one of them, ‘Friend, I am doing you no wrong. Did you not agree [[Matthew 20:13]] with me for a denarius?’" In both instances within the Parable of the Laborers in the Vineyard, συμφωνέω (symphōnéō, `{{G4856}}`) clearly denotes a formal, contractual agreement concerning wages. It highlights a binding arrangement made between parties prior to the commencement of work, underscoring the concept of a pre-established understanding and obligation.
* **Acts 5:9:** "But Peter said to her, 'How is it that you have agreed [[Acts 5:9]] together to test the Spirit of the Lord? Behold, the feet of those who have buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out.'" This occurrence presents a negative connotation. Ananias and Sapphira "agreed together" in a conspiratorial sense, demonstrating a deliberate, unified deception against God. This highlights that agreement, while often positive, can also be for ill purposes, revealing a shared intent in sin.
* **Acts 15:15:** "And with this the words of the prophets agree [[Acts 15:15]], just as it is written..." In the Jerusalem Council, James uses συμφωνέω (symphōnéō, `{{G4856}}`) to assert the harmony and consistency between Old Testament prophecy (specifically Amos 9:11-12) and the current work of God among the Gentiles. It indicates that God's actions are not arbitrary but are in perfect accord with His revealed word, demonstrating divine consistency across dispensations.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept of agreement and unity is pervasive in biblical thought, and συμφωνέω (symphōnéō, `{{G4856}}`) intersects with several related terms and ideas:
* **σύμφωνος (sýmphōnos, `{{G4859}}`):** The root adjective, meaning "harmonious," "in agreement." This is the direct linguistic ancestor of the verb.
* **ὁμολογέω (homologéō, `{{G3670}}`):** "To confess," "to acknowledge," "to agree." While συμφωνέω (symphōnéō, `{{G4856}}`) implies a shared state of mind or a formal compact, ὁμολογέω (homologéō, `{{G3670}}`) often emphasizes verbal agreement, confession, or speaking the same thing.
* **ὁμοθυμαδόν (homothymadón, `{{G3661}}`):** "With one accord," "with one mind," "unanimously." This adverb emphasizes unity of purpose, spirit, or will, often describing the early church's collective action (e.g., [[Acts 1:14]], [[Acts 2:46]]). While not a direct synonym, it describes the *state* that συμφωνέω (symphōnéō, `{{G4856}}`) can lead to or result from.
* **Unity (ἑνότης, henótēs, `{{G1772}}`):** A broader theological concept, particularly in Pauline epistles (e.g., [[Ephesians 4:3]], [[Ephesians 4:13]]), stressing the spiritual oneness of believers. Συμφωνέω (symphōnéō, `{{G4856}}`) contributes to this unity, especially in prayer and purpose.
* **Covenant/Contract:** The contractual use in Matthew 20 aligns with the broader biblical theme of covenants (διαθήκη, diathēkē, `{{G1242}}`) and promises, where mutual agreement or divine stipulation establishes a binding relationship.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of συμφωνέω (symphōnéō, `{{G4856}}`) is multifaceted:
* **Power of United Prayer:** The promise in [[Matthew 18:19]] highlights a profound spiritual principle: God responds powerfully to the collective, harmonious prayers of His people. This is not a mechanical formula but an affirmation of the spiritual synergy found in the unity of believers, where their desires align with God's will. It underscores the importance of communal prayer and the church as a body.
* **Divine Consistency and Reliability:** In [[Acts 15:15]], the agreement between Old Testament prophecy and New Testament fulfillment underscores the unwavering consistency of God's plan and character. His word is reliable, and His actions are always in perfect accord with His eternal purposes, providing a foundation for faith and assurance.
* **Ethical Dimension of Agreement:** The stark example of Ananias and Sapphira in [[Acts 5:9]] reveals that agreement is not inherently good. When agreement is rooted in deception, self-interest, or opposition to God's Spirit, it becomes a vehicle for sin and carries severe consequences. This highlights the moral responsibility inherent in shared intent and action.
* **God's Sovereignty and Grace in Contracts:** The contractual use in Matthew 20, while seemingly mundane, reflects divine sovereignty in dispensing grace. The householder's right to *agree* to a wage, and then to extend grace beyond that agreement, points to God's freedom and generosity, which transcends human notions of strict merit.
### Summary
The Greek word συμφωνέω (symphōnéō, `{{G4856}}`) encapsulates the concept of "sounding together," extending to a rich semantic range of agreement, accord, and formal stipulation. Its occurrences in the New Testament illuminate diverse facets: from the spiritual power of united prayer in [[Matthew 18:19]] to the binding nature of contractual agreements in [[Matthew 20:2]], and from the sinister conspiracy against the Holy Spirit in [[Acts 5:9]] to the divine harmony between Old Testament prophecy and New Testament fulfillment in [[Acts 15:15]]. This word underscores the significance of both interpersonal and divine consistency, revealing the profound implications, whether positive or negative, of shared intent and mutual understanding within the biblical narrative. It speaks to the importance of unity in the body of Christ, the reliability of God's word, and the ethical weight of human accord.
TRV