### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb G4943 συνυπουργέω (synypourgéō) is a compound word rich in meaning, derived from three constituent parts: σύν (syn), meaning "with" or "together"; ὑπό (hypo), meaning "under" or "by"; and the base of ἔργον (ergon), meaning "work" or "deed." Literally, the word conveys the sense of "working together under" or "being a co-worker under."
Its core meaning encompasses the idea of collaborative assistance and joint effort. The presence of σύν emphasizes shared participation and mutual involvement, while ὑπό adds a nuance of working as an auxiliary or subordinate to a greater purpose or authority. Thus, the semantic range extends beyond mere cooperation to include the concept of actively assisting or helping together in a concerted effort, often implying a shared burden or a common goal pursued in partnership. It suggests a dynamic and engaged form of support and collaboration.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb G4943 συνυπουργέω appears only once in the New Testament, found in [[2 Corinthians 6:1]]. This singular occurrence, however, carries profound theological weight within its context.
In [[2 Corinthians 6:1]], the Apostle Paul writes, "As God's fellow workers, we urge you not to receive God's grace in vain" (NIV). The phrase "God's fellow workers" translates the Greek συνυπουργοῦντες, which is the present active participle of συνυπουργέω. Here, Paul is speaking of himself and his apostolic companions. The context of [[2 Corinthians 5:18-20]] establishes their role as "ambassadors for Christ," entrusted with "the ministry of reconciliation."
By using συνυπουργέω, Paul emphasizes that their ministry is not an independent venture but a collaborative effort *with* God. They are not merely instruments, but active participants, working *together with* the divine initiative. This highlights a profound divine-human partnership in the proclamation of the Gospel and the extension of God's grace. The subsequent exhortation, "not to receive the grace of God in vain," underscores the active responsibility that accompanies the reception of divine favor, implying that the "working together" is integral to the proper response to and stewardship of that grace. It is a call to active engagement in the divine purpose.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several Greek words share a semantic field with G4943 συνυπουργέω, illuminating its specific nuance:
* `{{G4903}}` συνεργέω (synergéō): This verb means "to work together," "to cooperate," or "to be a fellow worker." It is a very close cognate, differing primarily by the absence of the ὑπό prefix. While συνεργέω broadly describes cooperation, συνυπουργέω specifically implies working *under* or *for* a particular purpose or authority, often in an auxiliary capacity. It suggests a more directed and purposeful form of assistance.
* `{{G4904}}` συνεργός (synergos): This is the noun form, meaning "fellow worker," "co-worker," or "colleague." It is frequently used by Paul to describe his companions in ministry (e.g., [[Romans 16:3]], [[Philippians 2:25]]).
* `{{G5256}}` ὑπουργέω (hypourgéō): This verb means "to serve," "to minister," or "to assist." It is the base verb from which συνυπουργέω is compounded, emphasizing the element of service and assistance. The addition of σύν in G4943 specifies that this service is rendered *together* with others.
The concepts related to συνυπουργέω include: divine-human partnership, co-laboring with God, shared ministry, collaborative service, stewardship of grace, and mutual assistance within the Body of Christ. It speaks to the active and participatory nature of faith and ministry.
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of G4943 συνυπουργέω in [[2 Corinthians 6:1]] carries significant theological weight, particularly in its depiction of Christian ministry and the relationship between God and humanity:
1. **Divine-Human Partnership in Ministry:** The most prominent theological implication is the concept of believers, particularly those in apostolic ministry, being active and essential partners with God in His redemptive work. It challenges any notion of passive instrumentality, emphasizing that God's servants are not mere tools but conscious, willing, and active "co-auxiliaries" in His grand design. This highlights the dignity and responsibility bestowed upon those called to serve.
2. **Stewardship of Grace:** The immediate context links this "working together" with the exhortation not to receive God's grace in vain. This suggests that genuine reception of grace is not merely passive acceptance but leads to active participation in the ministry that extends and exemplifies that grace. It underscores the idea that grace empowers and obligates believers to engage in God's purposes.
3. **The Nature of Apostolic Service:** For Paul, συνυπουργέω encapsulates the essence of his apostolic calling. It signifies a profound humility, acknowledging that he works *under* God's ultimate authority and for His glory, while simultaneously affirming the vital role he plays *with* God. It is a service characterized by both submission and active collaboration.
4. **Corporate Dimension of Faith:** While applied to apostles in this instance, the principle can be extended to the broader church. It suggests that the Christian life and mission are inherently communal and collaborative. Believers are called to "help together" in various capacities, supporting one another and collectively advancing God's kingdom.
### Summary
The Greek word G4943 συνυπουργέω (synypourgéō) precisely conveys the meaning "to work together as an auxiliary" or "to help together." Its etymology, combining σύν (together), ὑπό (under), and ἔργον (work), underscores a collaborative effort performed with a sense of subordination to a higher purpose or authority.
Despite its sole New Testament appearance in [[2 Corinthians 6:1]], its usage is profoundly significant. Here, Paul describes himself and his fellow apostles as "working together with" God, emphasizing their active and essential partnership in the ministry of reconciliation. This highlights the theological truth of divine-human cooperation in the spread of the Gospel and the responsible stewardship of God's grace.
G4943 differentiates itself from the broader `{{G4903}}` συνεργέω by adding the nuance of working *under* or *for* a specific purpose, as an auxiliary. It calls believers to active, humble, and collaborative service, recognizing their vital role as co-laborers with God in His redemptive plan.
TRV