### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb συναθλέω (synathléō, `{{G4866}}`) is a compound word formed from the preposition σύν (syn), meaning "with" or "together with," and the verb ἀθλέω (athléō, `{{G118}}`), meaning "to contend for a prize," "to strive," or "to struggle" (from which we derive the English word "athlete"). The literal sense, therefore, is "to wrestle in company with" or "to compete alongside" someone. Figuratively, and more commonly in its New Testament usage, it conveys the idea of "to strive jointly," "to labor together," or "to contend unitedly for a common cause." The semantic range emphasizes a shared, strenuous effort, a corporate struggle, and a unified commitment toward a specific objective, often implying resistance or opposition. It encapsulates both the intensity of individual striving and the power of collective endeavor.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term συναθλέω appears twice in the New Testament, both times in Paul's letter to the Philippians, highlighting its specific application within the context of Christian fellowship and mission.
1. **[[Philippians 1:27]]**: "Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the gospel."
* Here, Paul exhorts the Philippian believers to demonstrate a lifestyle consistent with the Gospel. The phrase "striving side by side" (συναθλοῦντες) emphasizes their corporate responsibility to defend and advance "the faith of the gospel." This is not a passive waiting but an active, unified contention against whatever might oppose the truth. The unity of "one spirit" and "one mind" is crucial for this joint struggle, suggesting an internal cohesion necessary for external effectiveness in the face of opposition.
2. **[[Philippians 4:3]]**: "Yes, and I ask you also, true companion, help these women who have labored side by side with me in the gospel, together with Clement and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life."
* In this instance, Paul commends specific women (likely Euodia and Syntyche, mentioned in [[Philippians 4:2]]) for their past dedicated service. The phrase "who have labored side by side with me" (συναθλησάσαις) describes their active participation and strenuous effort *alongside* Paul "in the gospel." This usage underscores the collaborative nature of evangelism and ministry, where individuals exert themselves together for the common cause of spreading the good news. It highlights the significant role of these women as co-laborers in the apostolic mission.
In both contexts, συναθλέω is directly linked to "the gospel," underscoring that the joint striving and labor are for the sake of Christ's message and kingdom. It speaks to a shared commitment and active engagement in the spiritual battle for truth and the advancement of God's purposes.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of συναθλέω is enriched by its relationship to several other Greek terms and theological concepts:
* **ἀθλέω (athléō, `{{G118}}`)**: The root verb, emphasizing the individual's struggle or contest. συναθλέω adds the dimension of corporate participation to this individual striving.
* **ἀγών (agōn, `{{G73}}`)**: "Contest," "struggle," "fight." This noun often describes the Christian life as a strenuous endeavor or a spiritual battle (e.g., [[1 Timothy 6:12]], "fight the good fight"). συναθλέω implies participation in such an ἀγών collectively.
* **ἀγωνίζομαι (agōnizomai, `{{G75}}`)**: "To contend," "to struggle," "to fight." This verb describes the active engagement in the ἀγών.
* **συνεργός (synergos, `{{G4900}}`)**: "Fellow worker," "co-worker." This term, frequently used by Paul, highlights the partnership in ministry, which συναθλέω further defines as a *strenuous, united* partnership.
* **κοινωνία (koinōnia, `{{G2842}}`)**: "Fellowship," "partnership," "participation." συναθλέω describes a specific, active manifestation of κοινωνία – a shared struggle.
* **Unity and Perseverance**: The concept of συναθλέω is intrinsically linked to the New Testament's emphasis on Christian unity (e.g., [[Ephesians 4:3]], [[Philippians 2:2]]) and the necessity of perseverance in faith despite opposition (e.g., [[Hebrews 12:1-3]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of συναθλέω is profound, particularly for understanding the nature of Christian community and mission:
1. **Corporate Nature of Faith**: συναθλέω fundamentally challenges any notion of an isolated or purely individualistic Christian walk. It portrays faith as a corporate endeavor, a shared struggle, and a unified witness. Believers are not merely individuals who happen to believe the same things; they are called to actively contend *together* for the faith.
2. **Unity in Mission**: The word underscores the necessity of profound unity (in spirit and mind) for effective Gospel work. The "striving side by side for the faith of the gospel" in [[Philippians 1:27]] is impossible without genuine accord and mutual support among believers. This unity is not merely sentimental but functional, enabling a powerful collective witness.
3. **Active Engagement and Spiritual Warfare**: συναθλέω implies a dynamic, strenuous, and often challenging engagement. The Christian life is depicted not as a passive state but as an active participation in a spiritual contest, where believers must put forth concerted effort. This collective "wrestling" against spiritual forces or cultural opposition for the sake of the Gospel is a vital aspect of the church's calling.
4. **Mutual Encouragement and Support**: In the context of shared struggle, συναθλέω inherently calls for mutual encouragement and support. When believers strive together, they bear one another's burdens, strengthen each other's resolve, and collectively face adversity. This fosters resilience and solidarity within the community of faith.
5. **Gospel-Centricity**: Both occurrences of συναθλέω are explicitly tied to "the gospel." This indicates that the ultimate purpose of this corporate striving is the advancement, defense, and faithful living out of the good news of Jesus Christ. The collective effort of believers is directed toward God's redemptive purposes in the world.
### Summary
συναθλέω (synathléō, `{{G4866}}`) is a powerful Greek verb meaning "to strive together," "to labor side by side," or "to contend jointly." Rooted in the concept of athletic competition, it emphasizes a strenuous, unified effort. Its two New Testament occurrences in Philippians highlight the corporate nature of the Christian life and mission. Believers are called to stand firm and contend together "for the faith of the gospel" ([[Philippians 1:27]]) and to labor side by side "in the gospel" ([[Philippians 4:3]]). This word underscores the vital importance of unity, active engagement, and mutual support within the Christian community as it collectively participates in the spiritual struggle and advances the message of Christ. It serves as a profound reminder that the Christian journey is a shared endeavor, demanding concerted effort from all who bear the name of Christ.
TRV