Sacred Transformation: συσχηματίζω (Strong’s G4964: suschématizó) Reshapes Worldly Patterns

Strong’s G4964: From sun (with) and schématizó (to fashion), συσχηματίζω warns against conforming to worldly patterns while encouraging transformation into Messiah’s image. This compound verb emphasizes the active choice between worldly and divine patterns of life.

U- Unveiling the Word

συσχηματίζω powerfully captures the concept of being molded or fashioned according to a pattern. As a compound word joining “with” (σύν) and “to fashion” (σχηματίζω), it describes the process of conforming to external patterns or forms. Paul uses this term in Romans to warn against being shaped by worldly values and patterns. The early church understood this word as a call to resist cultural assimilation while embracing transformation into the Messiah’s image. Today, it challenges believers to examine whether they’re being shaped by cultural patterns or by the renewing work of God’s Spirit.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: συσχηματίζω, suschématizó, /sü-skhā-mä-tē’-zō/
• Pronunciation Guide: “soo-skay-mah-TEE-zoh” (stress on fourth syllable)
• Part of Speech: Verb

Etymology:

• σύν (syn) – prefix meaning “with” or “together”
• σχηματίζω (schématizó) – verb meaning “to fashion”
• -ίζω (-izó) – verbal suffix indicating causative action

D – Defining Meanings

• To fashion oneself according to
• To conform to a pattern
• To be shaped by external influence

For compound words:
σύν (with) combines with σχηματίζω (to fashion) to express deep identification with and conformity to a pattern or form.

Translation Options:

• “To be conformed to” – Best captures the passive shaping process
• “To pattern after” – Emphasizes the modeling aspect
• “To be fashioned according to” – Highlights the formative influence

E – Exploring Similar Words

• μεταμορφόω (metamorphoó) /me-tä-mor-fo’-ō/ – to transform – See G3339
• μετασχηματίζω (metaschématizó) /me-tä-skhā-mä-tē’-zō/ – to transform, transfigure – See G3345
• μορφόω (morphoó) /mor-fo’-ō/ – to form, shape – See G3445

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As a verb, συσχηματίζω exhibits:

• Tense: Present
• Voice: Passive, Middle
• Mood: Imperative
• Person: Second
• Number: Plural
• Aspect: Imperfective

For example:

• μὴ συσχηματίζεσθε – Present passive/middle imperative (do not be conformed)
• συσχηματιζόμενος – Present passive/middle participle (being conformed)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes its use in ethical contexts. Thayer’s highlights the contrast with transformation. LSJ notes its use in describing external adaptations. Vine’s connects it to superficial rather than essential change. Strong’s emphasizes the conformity aspect. Moulton and Milligan document its use in moral instruction.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
Romans 12:2: “Do not be conformed [συσχηματίζω] to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”

Additional References:

• 1 Peter 1:14

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

συσχηματίζω challenges us to examine what shapes our lives. This word proclaims the good news that in the Messiah, we’re freed from worldly patterns to be transformed into His image. It reminds us that true discipleship involves both resistance to worldly conformity and submission to divine transformation.

D – Did You Know?

• The word was used in ancient theater for actors adapting to roles
• Early Christians used it to discuss cultural engagement
• Paul pairs it with μεταμορφόω to contrast external and internal change

Strong’s G4964: From sun (with) and schématizó (to fashion), συσχηματίζω warns against conforming to worldly patterns while encouraging transformation into Messiah’s image. This compound verb emphasizes the active choice between worldly and divine patterns of life.

Part of speech: Verb

Tags: transformation, conformity, worldliness, renewal, spiritual formation, Romans 12, Paul’s theology, cultural engagement, discipleship, sanctification​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​