### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb συντρέχω (syntréchō, `{{G4936}}`) is a compound word derived from the preposition σύν (syn), meaning "with" or "together," and the verb τρέχω (trechō, `{{G5143}}`), meaning "to run." Therefore, its core literal meaning is "to run together" or "to rush with." This implies a swift, often spontaneous, and collective movement. The semantic range extends beyond mere physical locomotion to include a figurative sense of "to hasten together," "to assemble quickly," or even "to participate in" or "to join in" a course of action, particularly when referring to shared conduct or lifestyle. The prefix σύν emphasizes the joint or collective nature of the running, distinguishing it from individual movement.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb συντρέχω (syntréchō, `{{G4936}}`) appears three times in the New Testament, each offering distinct contextual nuances:
* **[[Mark 9:15]]**: "And immediately, when all the people saw Him, they were greatly amazed, and running to Him, greeted Him." Here, the crowd's action of "running together" to Jesus is a spontaneous response to His appearance after the Transfiguration. It signifies eagerness, awe, and a collective rush to greet Him, driven by wonder or curiosity. The movement is directed towards a central, significant figure.
* **[[Acts 3:11]]**: "And as the lame man who was healed held Peter and John, all the people ran together to them in the portico called Solomon’s, greatly astounded." In this context, following the miraculous healing of the lame man by Peter and John, the people "ran together" to the apostles. This again denotes a swift, collective convergence, motivated by astonishment and curiosity at the divine power manifested through the apostles. It highlights a public, immediate reaction to a supernatural event.
* **[[1 Peter 4:4]]**: "In all this they are surprised that you do not join them in their reckless, wild living, and they heap abuse on you." This is the most distinct and figurative usage. Here, συντρέχω is used metaphorically to describe participation in sinful behavior. The unbelievers are surprised that Christians "do not run with them to the same excess of dissipation." The verb signifies a choice *not* to participate in or conform to the world's immoral practices. It implies a moral alignment or shared course of life, rather than physical running. This usage underscores the call to Christian distinctiveness and separation from worldly corruption.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is τρέχω (trechō, `{{G5143}}`), the base verb for "to run." τρέχω itself is used frequently in the New Testament, both literally (e.g., [[John 20:4]]) and metaphorically, often describing the Christian life as a race (e.g., [[1 Corinthians 9:24]], [[Galatians 2:2]], [[Philippians 2:16]]). The addition of the prefix σύν (syn) transforms individual running into a collective or shared action.
Concepts related to συντρέχω include:
* **Haste/Speed**: The inherent swiftness of the action.
* **Crowd Dynamics**: The behavior of groups of people, often spontaneous or driven by common stimuli.
* **Participation/Conformity**: Especially in its figurative sense, the idea of joining in or aligning with a particular course of action, whether positive or negative.
* **Response**: The immediate reaction of individuals or groups to events, persons, or teachings.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of συντρέχω (syntréchō, `{{G4936}}`) is twofold, reflecting its literal and figurative uses.
In [[Mark 9:15]] and [[Acts 3:11]], the "running together" of the crowds towards Jesus or His apostles highlights the magnetic and drawing power of divine presence and miraculous works. It signifies the spontaneous human response of wonder, curiosity, and eagerness to approach the locus of God's activity. This collective rush underscores the public nature of Christ's ministry and the early Church's witness, demonstrating how God's power elicits an immediate and visible reaction from onlookers. It speaks to the drawing of people to the truth and power of the Gospel.
In [[1 Peter 4:4]], the word carries profound ethical and theological weight. Here, συντρέχω describes a negative form of participation – "running with" the world into sinful excess. Peter's use of the word serves as a stark contrast to the positive "running" seen in Mark and Acts. It underscores the call for believers to live lives of holiness and separation from the ungodly practices of the surrounding culture. Christians are called to run a different race (cf. τρέχω in the Christian life metaphor), one that leads to righteousness, not dissipation. This usage emphasizes the ethical demands of discipleship and the distinct identity of the believer in Christ, who chooses *not* to conform to the patterns of the world.
### Summary
συντρέχω (syntréchō, `{{G4936}}`) literally means "to run together" or "to rush with," emphasizing swift, collective movement. In the Gospels and Acts, it describes the spontaneous convergence of crowds towards Jesus or His apostles, driven by wonder, curiosity, or awe in response to divine revelation or miraculous power ([[Mark 9:15]], [[Acts 3:11]]). This highlights the drawing power of God's presence and the immediate human response to it. However, in [[1 Peter 4:4]], the word takes on a crucial figurative meaning, referring to the act of participating in or joining with others in sinful excess. This usage serves as an exhortation for believers to live distinctly, choosing *not* to "run with" the world into its corrupt practices. Thus, συντρέχω offers insight into both the drawing power of the divine and the ethical imperative for Christian separation and holiness.
TRV