The Greek word synanamígnymi, represented by G4874, means to mix up together or, figuratively, to associate or keep company with. It is a specific term used to define the nature of association within the community of believers. This word appears 4 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible.
The use of G4874 is primarily instructional, outlining how believers should interact with those within the church who are living in unrepentant sin. In an epistle G1992, a command was written G1125 "not to company with fornicators" 1 Corinthians 5:9. This instruction is later clarified to apply specifically to "any man that is called a brother" G80 who is a fornicator G4205, covetous G4123, an idolater G1496, or an extortioner G727. The command is explicit: "with such an one no not to eat" 1 Corinthians 5:11. Similarly, if someone does not obey G5219 the apostolic word G3056 in the epistle G1992, believers are to "have no company with him, that he may be ashamed" G1788 2 Thessalonians 3:14.
Several related words help clarify the context and purpose of this command:
- G1992 epistolḗ (a written message): This word establishes that the command to not keep company G4874 is a formal, written instruction for the church (1 Corinthians 5:9, 2 Thessalonians 3:14).
- G80 adelphós (a brother): This term is crucial, as it limits the application of the command to a person who is "called a brother," distinguishing internal church discipline from interaction with outsiders 1 Corinthians 5:11.
- G5219 hypakoúō (to heed or conform to a command or authority): Disobedience is the trigger for the separation. When a man does not obey the instruction, the church is to respond by noting him and withdrawing company 2 Thessalonians 3:14.
- G1788 entrépō (to confound): This word reveals the redemptive purpose behind the command. The goal of having no company with the disobedient person is so "that he may be ashamed," indicating a desire for his restoration 2 Thessalonians 3:14.
The theological weight of G4874 centers on the concepts of church purity and restorative discipline.
- Maintaining Community Holiness: The instruction to not keep company with an unrepentant brother G80 serves to protect the integrity and witness of the church body by refusing to condone sinful behavior 1 Corinthians 5:11.
- A Call to Repentance: The act of separation is not intended as a final condemnation but as a disciplinary measure. The aim is for the individual to be ashamed G1788, which can lead to repentance and restoration to the community 2 Thessalonians 3:14.
- Practical Application of Boundaries: The command is not abstract but concrete, extending to the point of not even sharing a meal with such a person, a significant act of social and religious association 1 Corinthians 5:11.
In summary, G4874 is more than just avoiding someone; it describes a deliberate and purposeful act of disassociation within the church. This "un-mixing" is a direct response to a fellow believer's unrepentant sin or disobedience to apostolic teaching. The command, given by epistle G1992, aims to preserve the church's purity while simultaneously creating an environment where the straying individual might feel ashamed G1788 and return to fellowship.
TRV