from σύν and ἵστημι (including its collateral forms); to set together, i.e. (by implication) to introduce (favorably), or (figuratively) to exhibit; intransitively, to stand near, or (figuratively) to constitute:--approve, commend, consist, make, stand (with).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **synistáō**, represented by `{{G4921}}`, means to set together. It appears **16 times** across **15 unique verses** in the Bible. From its root meaning, it is used to express the act of introducing favorably, exhibiting, or constituting something, and is translated as **commend**, **approve**, **consist**, **make**, or to **stand with**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G4921}}` is used to convey several critical ideas. It demonstrates the ultimate proof of God's **love** `{{G26}}` for humanity, as He **commendeth** His love for **us** `{{G2248}}` because **Christ** `{{G5547}}` **died** `{{G599}}` for **sinners** `{{G268}}` [[Romans 5:8]]. The word also has a cosmic significance, establishing that by Christ "all things **consist**" [[Colossians 1:17]], meaning they are held together and sustained by His power. Furthermore, it is used to contrast human self-promotion with divine validation, as it is not the one who **commendeth** himself who is **approved** `{{G1384}}`, but the one whom the **Lord** `{{G2962}}` **commendeth** [[2 Corinthians 10:18]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G4921}}`:
* `{{G4956}}` **systatikós** (of commendation): This adjective is directly derived from `{{G4921}}` and refers to that which is recommendatory. It is used in the discussion about needing "epistles of **commendation**" [[2 Corinthians 3:1]].
* `{{G1384}}` **dókimos** (approved): This word for being found acceptable after testing is often linked with `{{G4921}}`. True approval comes from the Lord's commendation, not one's own [[2 Corinthians 10:18]].
* `{{G1249}}` **diákonos** (minister, servant): Believers are to **approve** `{{G4921}}` themselves as **ministers** of God through their conduct in suffering and **patience** `{{G5281}}` [[2 Corinthians 6:4]]. This shows that commendation is tied to faithful service.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4921}}` is significant, establishing key principles of Christian faith and practice.
* **Divine Validation:** The word is used for the supreme demonstration of God's character. His love is not just stated but **commendeth** `{{G4921}}`, or proven, by the sacrificial death of Christ for sinners [[Romans 5:8]].
* **Christ's Supremacy:** The use of `{{G4921}}` in "by him all things **consist**" is a powerful statement of Christ's divine authority and sustaining power over all creation [[Colossians 1:17]].
* **The Standard for Ministry:** The Apostle Paul repeatedly uses `{{G4921}}` to establish that a minister's legitimacy is not found in self-praise but is **approved** `{{G4921}}` before God through patient endurance in **afflictions** `{{G2347}}`, **distresses** `{{G4730}}`, and the clear **manifestation** `{{G5321}}` of the **truth** `{{G225}}` ([[2 Corinthians 6:4]], [[2 Corinthians 4:2]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4921}}` is a dynamic word that goes beyond a simple introduction to encompass concepts of proof, validation, and cohesion. It is central to understanding how God proves His love, how Christ sustains the universe, and how a believer's life is authenticated. From God's ultimate act of **commending** His love to the very fabric of creation that **consists** in Christ, the word links divine power and approval to the standard for Christian life and service.
TRV