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Expedient

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What is the meaning of Expedient in the Bible?

The Greek term sumphero, rendered as 'expedient' in English translations, literally means to bear or bring together and denotes what is advantageous or profitable. In New Testament usage, this word never signifies mere convenience or utility when contrasted with moral righteousness.

TEXTUAL SIGNIFICANCE

Recognizing that 'expedient' refers to genuine advantage rather than simple convenience ensures that biblical instructions on practical matters are interpreted within their proper moral framework, preventing the separation of utility from ethical righteousness.

Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide

Manuscript & Literary Context: Notice how Expedient functions as an authoritative historical witness connecting earlier prophetic promises with scripture's broader fulfillment.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
  • Why did the biblical author mention Expedient in this passage?
  • What cultural or historical assumption does Expedient clarify?

Source Attribution

Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.

How to Cite This Entry

"Expedient." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/expedient/
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