Expediency(caution)
“To bring together, to be profitable/beneficial”
Summary
In the New Testament, expediency (from the Greek sumphero, 'to bring together,' hence 'to be profitable') refers to what is beneficial, advantageous, or conducive to good ends—distinct from the modern negative sense of pursuing advantage at the expense of principle.
☩Greek Terminology
The New Testament uses the Greek word sumphero (συμφέρω) or its neuter participle sumpheron, variously translated as 'expedient,' 'profitable,' 'better,' or 'good.' Importantly, in biblical usage this word retains its original positive sense—what truly benefits or profits—rather than the modern connotation of pursuing advantage at the expense of principle. It is never used in Scripture to mean what is merely convenient as opposed to what is right.
☩Pauline Application
Paul employs the concept of expediency particularly in discussing Christian liberty: 'All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient' (1 Cor 6:12; 10:23). While believers have freedom in Christ, wisdom discerns that not everything permissible is beneficial. This principle governs decisions about food offered to idols, exercise of spiritual gifts, and other areas where the law permits latitude but love for others may counsel restraint. The question becomes not merely 'Is this allowed?' but 'Is this truly helpful?'
