### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb συναποστέλλω (synapostéllō, `{{G4882}}`) is a compound word formed from the preposition σύν (syn, `{{G4862}}`), meaning "with" or "together," and the verb ἀποστέλλω (apostéllō, `{{G649}}`), meaning "to send away," "to dispatch," or "to send forth." Therefore, the core meaning of συναποστέλλω is "to send together with," "to dispatch in company with," or "to send along with." This implies a joint mission or a shared purpose in the act of sending. The semantic range is quite narrow, emphasizing not merely the act of sending, but the collaborative and accompanied nature of the dispatch. It highlights the idea of co-laborers being sent on a single, unified assignment, often for mutual support, confirmation, or accountability.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb συναποστέλλω (synapostéllō, `{{G4882}}`) appears only twice in the New Testament, both instances occurring within the same chapter of Paul's Second Epistle to the Corinthians, specifically concerning the collection for the saints in Jerusalem.
1. **[[2 Corinthians 8:18]]**: "And we have sent with him the brother whose praise is in the gospel throughout all the churches." Here, Paul states that he has "sent with" (συναπεστειλαμεν) Titus a certain brother, widely believed to be Luke or another highly esteemed figure, to assist in overseeing the collection. The context emphasizes the need for transparency and integrity in handling the significant financial contributions. By sending an additional, well-regarded individual *with* Titus, Paul ensures that the process is above reproach and that no suspicion of misappropriation can arise. The "sending together" underscores a collaborative effort aimed at establishing trust and accountability.
2. **[[2 Corinthians 8:22]]**: "And we have sent with them our brother whom we have often proved diligent in many things, but now much more diligent because of the great confidence which he has in you." In this verse, Paul further reinforces the principle of collective oversight by stating that he has "sent with them" (συναπεστειλαμεν) yet another brother. "Them" refers to Titus and the brother mentioned in [[2 Corinthians 8:18]]. This third individual, also highly trusted and proven, further solidifies the integrity of the mission. The repeated use of συναποστέλλω highlights Paul's meticulousness in ensuring that the collection is handled with utmost probity, involving multiple, reliable witnesses to the process. The collective sending also provides mutual support and strength for those entrusted with the task.
In both instances, the word underscores the intentional formation of a team for a specific, sensitive mission, prioritizing integrity, mutual support, and undeniable witness.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the base verb ἀποστέλλω (apostéllō, `{{G649}}`), which signifies the act of sending with authority or a specific commission. The addition of the prefix σύν (syn, `{{G4862}}`) transforms the singular act of sending into a joint or communal dispatch. This connection highlights that those "sent with" are not merely companions but co-commissioned individuals sharing in the assigned task.
Other related concepts include:
* **Partnership in ministry**: The idea of working together, as seen in Paul's frequent references to "fellow workers" (e.g., συνεργός - synergos, `{{G4904}}`).
* **Accountability and transparency**: Especially in financial matters, the practice of sending multiple individuals serves as a safeguard against impropriety and ensures public trust.
* **Communal witness**: The presence of more than one person provides corroboration and strengthens the testimony or integrity of an action, aligning with the biblical principle of multiple witnesses (e.g., [[Deuteronomy 19:15]], [[2 Corinthians 13:1]]).
* **Delegation**: The act of entrusting a task to others, but specifically in a way that involves a team rather than an individual.
### Theological Significance
The infrequent but precise use of συναποστέλλω (synapostéllō, `{{G4882}}`) in 2 Corinthians carries significant theological weight. It reveals several important principles concerning Christian ministry and community:
1. **The Value of Partnership in God's Work**: God often accomplishes His purposes not through isolated individuals, but through collaborative efforts. The sending of multiple trusted individuals demonstrates the divine wisdom in fostering community and mutual support within ministry. It underscores that the burden and responsibility of ministry are often meant to be shared.
2. **Integrity and Accountability as Core Virtues**: The specific context of handling financial contributions highlights the paramount importance of integrity in the church. Paul's deliberate act of "sending with" multiple witnesses serves as a powerful example of proactive accountability. It teaches that leaders must not only be trustworthy but also operate in a manner that is demonstrably transparent and beyond reproach, especially when dealing with resources entrusted by God's people. This protects both the leaders and the reputation of the gospel.
3. **The Corporate Nature of the Church's Mission**: The church's mission is fundamentally communal. While individuals are called, they are often sent as part of a larger body, representing the collective faith and purpose of the community. This collective sending strengthens the mission, provides diverse gifts and perspectives, and offers mutual encouragement and protection.
4. **Prudence and Wisdom in Leadership**: Paul's actions exemplify wise leadership that anticipates potential pitfalls and takes preventative measures. The "sending with" is a practical demonstration of prudence, ensuring the smooth and honorable execution of a sensitive task.
### Summary
The Greek verb συναποστέλλω (synapostéllō, `{{G4882}}`) literally means "to send together with" or "to dispatch in company with." Its two occurrences in [[2 Corinthians 8:18]] and [[2 Corinthians 8:22]] are highly instructive, revealing Paul's practice of sending multiple trusted individuals on a shared mission, specifically concerning the collection for the saints. This strategic "sending with" underscores the vital theological principles of partnership in ministry, the paramount importance of integrity and accountability, and the corporate nature of the church's mission. It serves as a biblical model for collaborative service, ensuring transparency, mutual support, and the unimpeachable reputation of the gospel work.
TRV