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G2841 · Greek · New Testament
κοινωνέω
Koinoneo
Verb
Share / Participate / Have Fellowship

Definition

The Greek verb koinoneo means to share, participate in, or have fellowship with. It is the verbal form of koinonia (G2842), fellowship/communion. The word denotes active participation and sharing — not merely proximity but genuine mutual involvement in something common.

Usage & Theological Significance

Koinoneo and its cognates describe the revolutionary community life that the gospel creates. To koinoneo is to enter genuine partnership — sharing material goods (Romans 12:13), participating in Christ's sufferings (Philippians 3:10), and experiencing the communion of the Holy Spirit (2 Corinthians 13:14). Paul uses the word for financial support of ministry — the Philippians 'shared' in his troubles (Philippians 4:15). The dark side appears in warnings not to koinoneo in the sins of others (1 Timothy 5:22) or in unfruitful works of darkness (Ephesians 5:11). True Christian community requires both generous sharing and careful boundary-keeping against what corrupts.

Key Bible Verses

Romans 12:13 Share with the Lord's people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
Galatians 6:6 Nevertheless, the one who receives instruction in the word should share all good things with their instructor.
Philippians 4:15 Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only.
1 Timothy 5:22 Do not be hasty in the laying on of hands, and do not share in the sins of others.
1 Peter 4:13 but rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ.

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