Brief Overview of συμπαραμένω (Strong’s G4839: symparameno)

Strong’s G4839: A compound verb combining συν- (with), παρα- (beside), and μένω (to remain), meaning “to remain/continue with.” Used to express committed presence and continued support, particularly in Paul’s expression of his desire to remain with the Philippians for their spiritual growth.

U- Unveiling the Word

συμπαραμένω represents the concept of committed, sustained presence with others. As a compound word, it combines togetherness (συν-), closeness (παρα-), and remaining (μένω) to express dedicated accompaniment. In the New Testament, Paul uses it to describe his commitment to remain with the Philippian believers for their spiritual development. The early church saw this term as expressing the importance of sustained discipleship relationships and pastoral care. Today, it reminds us that genuine spiritual nurture requires consistent, committed presence with those we serve.

N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: συμπαραμένω, symparameno, /soom-par-am-en-o/
• Detailed pronunciation: soom (unstressed) – par (unstressed) – AM (stressed) – en – o
• Part of Speech: Verb

Etymology:

• First prefix: συν-/συμ- (syn-/sym-) meaning “with, together”
• Second prefix: παρα- (para-) meaning “beside, alongside”
• Root word: μένω (meno) meaning “to remain, stay”
• Base meaning: “to continue together alongside”

D – Defining Meanings

• To continue with
• To remain alongside
• To stay in the company of

For compound words:
The prefix συν- indicates joint continuance
The prefix παρα- adds the concept of close proximity
The root μένω contributes the idea of remaining
Together they express sustained companionship

Translation Options:

1. To continue with – Emphasizes the ongoing nature
2. To remain alongside – Stresses the close relationship
3. To abide together – Captures both duration and intimacy

E – Exploring Similar Words

• παραμένω (parameno) /par-am-en-o/ – to remain beside – See G3887
• συμμένω (symmeno) /soom-men-o/ – to stay with – See G4839
• διαμένω (diameno) /dee-am-en-o/ – to continue through – See G1265

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Morphological Features:

• Tense: Present, Future, Aorist
• Voice: Active
• Mood: Indicative, Subjunctive, Infinitive
• Person: First, Second, Third
• Number: Singular, Plural
• Aspect: Continuous (Present), Punctiliar (Aorist)

Example English morphing:
Present: remain with
Future: will remain with
Past: remained with
Participle: remaining with

• Cross-references include the noun συμπαραμονή (continued presence) and παραμονή (continuance)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes its use in expressing committed pastoral presence. Thayer’s highlights the compound nature suggesting sustained companionship. LSJ notes its use in contexts of loyal support. Vine’s connects it to ministry relationships. Strong’s emphasizes the completeness of the remaining together. Moulton and Milligan document its use in describing faithful companionship.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:

And being confident of this, I know that I shall [συμπαραμένω] remain and continue with you all for your progress and joy of faith Philippians 1:25

Additional References:
This word appears only once in the New Testament.

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

συμπαραμένω beautifully captures the heart of pastoral ministry and discipleship. It proclaims the good news that King Jesus not only saves us but provides sustained spiritual care through His servants. This word reminds us that spiritual growth happens through committed relationships where mature believers consistently walk alongside others in their faith journey.

D – Did You Know?

1. This word appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in Paul’s letter to his beloved Philippian church.
2. The triple compound structure emphasizes the completeness of the commitment to remain present.
3. Early church leaders saw this word as a model for pastoral ministry commitment.

Strong’s G4839: A compound verb combining συν- (with), παρα- (beside), and μένω (to remain), meaning “to remain/continue with.” Used to express committed presence and continued support, particularly in Paul’s expression of his desire to remain with the Philippians for their spiritual growth.

Part of speech: Verb

Tags: presence, commitment, discipleship, pastoral-care, ministry, faithfulness, spiritual-growth, mentoring, companionship, continuance, dedication, relationship​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​