[Greek] συνεργός (synergos), [Latin] adiutor, [Latin] cooperator: fellow worker, co-worker, partner, collaboration, fellow laborer; Rom.16:3, 1Cor.3:9, 2Cor.1:24, Phil.2:25, Col.4:11, 1Thess.3:2, Mk.16:20
An old Roman mural of Paul’s co-workers Prisca and Aquila
Background Information:
Old Testament: This Greek term synergos is rarely used in the Old Testament. Interestingly, this term does not directly refer to God or the prophets. God is seen as all powerful with no need for co-operation. Instead, this term refers to more mundane matters, such as situations or opportunities which benefit people.
Hellenism: In some situations skilled artisans, who needed resources and tools for their craft, offered their services as co-workers being employed by others. Paul supported his ministry as a tentmaker in his missionary efforts. For the most part, co-workers were given specific tasks or roles in part of a larger project or function. A fellow servant could also be an acolyte involved in a pagan ceremony.
Hellenistic letter: Paul corresponded with various Christian communities using the format of the Hellenistic letter. Paul establishes his primary authority in his letters. However, in his letters, Paul attaches significant importance to the position of his co-workers. By establishing his relationship with his co-workers, Paul brings trustworthiness and reliability to that co-worker in that Christian community. In addition, Paul addresses a community rather than an individual.
New Testament: This term is only used primarily in the plural form in connection with companions and pupils. Without relinquishing authority, Paul honors their service and commitment. Paul and the others are in the service working for the kingdom of God. As such, they can claim the respect and obedience of the community. Paul and his co-workers share in God’s own work with its toil and labor.
Scripture:
“Greet Prisca and Aquila, my co-workers in Christ.” Rom. 16:3
Prisca and Aquila are Jews banished from Rome by Emperor Claudius. Prisca and Aquila accompanied Paul to Ephesus. Christians gather in their home in Rome.
“For we are God’s co-workers; you are God’s field, God’s building.” 1Cor.3:9
Paul and the co-workers share in God’s own work with its toil, labor, and burdens. Hence they are God’s servants.
“But they went forth and preached everywhere, while the Lord worked with them and confirmed the Word through accompanying signs.” Mk.16:20
Signs are working together with faith. This attests that the Word and signs belong together.
“Therefore, we ought to support such persons, so that we may be co-workers in the truth.” 3 Jn. 8
This scripture pertains outside the Pauline sphere of influence. An appeal is made to the community to welcome and receive the Gentile missionaries.
Conclusion:
Synergy, adjust, adjustor, co-operator, cooperate
To be honest, I was not aware of the significant influence that Hellenism plays in Paul’s missionary work. I was also surprised of the vastly different use of “co-workers” between the Old Testament and New Testament. Again, the use of this term has a different meaning today. Synergy, often associated with industry, economics, and psychology, relates to the coordinated action of a system or organs. Synergy also relates to the combined action whose total effect is greater than the sum of its parts. Perhaps, the same can still be said about faith.