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An Exegetical Analysis of συγκοινωνός in 1 Corinthians 9:23
This exegetical study of An Exegetical Analysis of συγκοινωνός in 1 Corinthians 9:23 is based on a b-greek discussion from March 19th, 2014. The initial query focused on clarifying the precise meaning and grammatical function of the term συγκοινωνός in 1 Corinthians 9:23. Specifically, the discussion began by questioning whether συγκοινωνός functioned as a participle derived from the verb συγκοινωνεω, and if its meaning was restricted to “fellow partaker” (implying a receptive sharing) or could also encompass “sharer in the sense of giving” (implying an active contribution).
The main exegetical issue at the heart of this discussion is the precise semantic nuance of the noun συγκοινωνός within its contextual use in 1 Corinthians 9:23. The question hinges on whether Paul’s statement, “ἵνα συγκοινωνὸς αὐτοῦ γένωμαι,” expresses a desire to receive personal benefits from the gospel (a receptive sense of sharing) or to actively participate as a co-worker in its proclamation and advancement (an active, contributive sense). This distinction is crucial for understanding Paul’s motivation for “doing all things for the gospel” (πάντα δὲ ποιῶ διὰ τὸ εὐαγγέλιον) and the broader rhetorical thrust of 1 Corinthians 9, particularly his self-sacrificial ministry.
1 Cor. 9:23: πάντα δὲ ποιῶ διὰ τὸ εὐαγγέλιον, ἵνα συγκοινωνὸς αὐτοῦ γένωμαι.
(Nestle 1904)
Key differences with SBLGNT (2010):
- For 1 Cor 9:23, the text of the SBLGNT (2010) is identical to the Nestle 1904 edition regarding the word συγκοινωνός and its immediate context. No significant textual variants affect this term in this verse.
Regarding textual criticism, the reading of συγκοινωνός in 1 Corinthians 9:23 is consistently attested across major critical editions, including NA28. There are no significant variants affecting the presence or form of this noun in this verse, indicating a stable textual tradition.
Lexically, the primary reference consulted in the discussion is BDAG, which defines συγκοινωνός, οῦ, ὁ as “participant, partner.” The entry highlights its usage with the genitive of the thing shared. Specifically for 1 Cor 9:23, BDAG presents two interpretive possibilities: “that I might jointly share in it (i.e., in the benefits promised by the gospel)” and, alternatively, “‘fellow-worker in the gospel’ (Mitarbeiter des Evan.)”. This distinction is crucial to the exegetical issue at hand. The discussion also clarifies that συγκοινωνός is a noun, not a participle of συγκοινωνεω, the denominative verb from which it derives. Related terms such as μέτοχος and συμμέτοχος were noted for comparative insight. BDAG‘s entry (2) for the verb συγκοινωνεω is cited as “to give a portion of what one has to another, share τί τινι something with someone,” exemplified by Didache 4:8. In this context, the Didache 4:8 translation by Jonathan A. Zdziarski – “Do not abandon those in need, but share in all things with your brothers in Christ. Moreover, do not call anything your own, for if you are partakers in that which is incorruptible, how much more in that which is corruptible?” – suggests an active, communal sharing. While Kittel’s Theological Dictionary of the New Testament (KITTEL) was not directly referenced within the provided discussion, a comprehensive lexical analysis would typically include its treatment of the κοινωνία word group, which would offer broader theological and historical context for the concept of sharing and partnership. Other lexical tools like Moulton-Milligan (M-M) and the Theological Wordbook of the New Testament (TW) are also referenced in relation to the broader semantic field.
Translation Variants
The phrase under consideration is ἵνα συγκοινωνὸς αὐτοῦ γένωμαι. Grammatically, συγκοινωνός is a masculine nominative singular noun functioning as a predicate nominative with the verb γένωμαι (aorist middle subjunctive of γίνομαι, “to become”). The genitive pronoun αὐτοῦ refers back to εὐαγγέλιον (“gospel”). This construction expresses Paul’s purpose or goal in doing “all things” (πάντα ποιῶ) for the gospel.
The core of the grammatical and rhetorical analysis centers on the precise semantic range of συγκοινωνός and its implications for Paul’s ministry. As identified by BDAG, two main interpretations emerge:
- Receptive Sharing: This view interprets συγκοινωνὸς αὐτοῦ as sharing in the benefits or blessings of the gospel. Paul’s efforts are aimed at securing his own portion in the salvation or eternal rewards offered by the gospel. The phrase “that I might jointly share in it (i.e. in the benefits promised by the gospel)” from BDAG exemplifies this understanding. This interpretation emphasizes Paul’s personal spiritual gain as a motivation.
- Active/Contributive Sharing: This view sees συγκοινωνὸς αὐτοῦ as being a “fellow-worker” or “partner” in the proclamation or advancement of the gospel with others. The alternative interpretation noted in BDAG as “‘fellow-worker in the gospel’ (Mitarbeiter des Evan.)” supports this. The discussion’s reference to Didache 4:8, where συγκοινωνεω implies “share in all things with your brothers in Christ” (suggesting a joint effort or partnership in resources/ministry), also lends support to an active, reciprocal sharing. Rhetorically, Paul’s commitment to “all things” (πάντα) for the gospel in 1 Cor 9:23, immediately following his discussion of his rights and voluntary self-limitation for the sake of winning others, strongly suggests an active, outward-focused motivation rather than a purely self-beneficial one. His preceding statements about becoming “all things to all people, that by all means I might save some” (1 Cor 9:22) bolster the idea that his purpose in sharing in the gospel is related to its active propagation and his partnership with God and fellow believers in that mission.
The presence of γένωμαι (“that I might become”) also indicates a desired state or outcome, rather than just an existing condition. Paul seeks to become a sharer, reinforcing the purposive nature of his actions.
Conclusions and Translation Suggestions
The exegetical analysis confirms that συγκοινωνός in 1 Corinthians 9:23 functions as a noun, not a participle, representing a state of partnership or participation. While lexically it can imply both receptive sharing (in benefits) and active, contributive sharing (as a co-worker), the broader rhetorical context of 1 Corinthians 9, particularly Paul’s emphasis on sacrificial ministry for the sake of the gospel’s advancement and the salvation of others, strongly favors the latter interpretation. Paul’s aim in doing “all things” for the gospel is not primarily to secure personal benefits, but to actively participate in its proclamation and impact, thereby partnering with others and with God in its transformative work.
- … that I might become a fellow worker in the gospel.
This translation emphasizes Paul’s active and collaborative role in the mission of the gospel, aligning with his self-sacrificial ministry described throughout the chapter. - … that I might become a partner with the gospel.
This option highlights a sense of joint enterprise, where Paul actively contributes to and participates in the spread and effectiveness of the gospel message. - … so that I may share in its work/mission.
A more dynamic rendering that captures the active engagement implied by Paul’s preceding statement of doing “all things” for the gospel’s sake, focusing on the shared labor rather than just passive receipt of benefits.
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