Lexical Summary sugkatabainó: To go down together, to descend with Original Word: συγκαταβαίνω Strong's Exhaustive Concordance go down with. From sun and katabaino; to descend in company with -- go down with. see GREEK sun see GREEK katabaino NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom sun and katabainó Definition to go down with NASB Translation go (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 4782: συγκαταβαίνωσυγκαταβαίνω (T WH συνκαταβαίνω (cf. σύν, II. at the end)): 2 aorist participle plural συγκαταβάντες; to go down with: of those who descend together from a higher place to a lower, as from Jerusalem to Caesarea, Acts 25:5. (Psalm 48:18 Topical Lexicon Root Idea and Biblical ConceptThe term carries the notion of “going down together,” describing a shared descent, movement, or accommodation made with another. In Scripture it portrays a willingness to accompany, to submit to a joint course of action, or to participate in a process that safeguards justice and integrity. Rather than standing aloof, participants align themselves with the journey of another, physically or metaphorically. Occurrence in Acts 25:5 Acts 25 records the Roman governor Porcius Festus handling Jewish accusations against Paul. Festus proposes, “So,” he said, “let some of your leaders come with me, and if the man has done anything wrong, they can press charges against him there” (Acts 25:5). The key word depicts the leaders “coming down together” with Festus from Jerusalem to Caesarea. 1. Procedural Fairness: Festus insists accusers accompany him, ensuring transparent, face-to-face examination (compare Deuteronomy 19:15–18). Historical and Legal Background Roman governors typically resided in Caesarea but visited Jerusalem during festivals or to meet local authorities. Grievances raised in Jerusalem were then adjudicated in Caesarea, necessitating a joint descent to the coastal capital (about sixty-five miles). The vocabulary underscores official protocol: accusers physically accompany the governor, affirming jurisdiction and reducing the chance of mob violence. Theological Insights 1. Shared Responsibility: Scripture values corporate participation in justice (Numbers 35:30; Matthew 18:16–17). The word highlights that responsibility is not delegated in absentia but borne together. Ministry Applications • Accompaniment in Suffering: Elders and believers “go down together” with the afflicted, ensuring no one faces trial alone (Galatians 6:2). Homiletical Suggestions • Sermon focus: “Walking the Road of Accountability” (Acts 25:1–12). Emphasize righteous process, presence, and God’s sovereignty. Related Biblical Themes Condescension for Service: Luke 10:33–34; John 13:3–5. Corporate Witness: 2 Corinthians 13:1; Hebrews 10:24–25. Divine Use of Civil Authority: Romans 13:1–4; Acts 18:12–17. Summary Strong’s Greek 4782 paints a vivid picture of companions stepping into the same path for the sake of truthful testimony and righteous judgment. In Acts 25:5 it secures Paul’s safety and furthers the Gospel. For modern believers, it challenges leaders and congregations alike to join one another in humility, accountability, and mission, trusting that God directs even our shared journeys for His glory. Forms and Transliterations συγκαταβάντες συγκαταβήσεται συνκαταβαντες συνκαταβάντες sunkatabantes synkatabantes syn'katabántesLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts |
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