Romans 6 – question 2
Understanding the Image of « united with him » in Ro 6:5
The expression « united with him » in Romans 6:5 (WEB), or « one plant with Him » (King James version), comes from the Greek word σύμφυτοι (symphytoi), which literally means « united together » or « growing together. » Here are some insights to deepen our understanding of this image, based on the Greek text, other New Testament passages, and imagery from the Old Testament:
The Meaning of the Greek Word σύμφυτοι (symphytoi)
The term σύμφυτοι comes from the root φύω (phuo), which means « to grow » or « to sprout, » often referring to plants or natural growth. The prefix συν- (syn) indicates a close union or connection. Thus, the word evokes the idea of being closely joined to something or someone, like two plants growing together from the same root or soil.
In the context of Romans 6:5, Paul uses this image to describe our spiritual union with Christ, particularly in His death and resurrection. We are « grafted » into Him, sharing in His destiny.
Other New Testament Passages
- John 15:5: Jesus says, « I am the vine, you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit. » Here, the image of a plant (the vine) illustrates the vital union between Christ and His disciples, producing spiritual fruit.
- Colossians 2:6-7: Paul exhorts believers to be « rooted and built up in Him. » This agricultural metaphor reflects spiritual growth that flows from our union with Christ.
- 1 Corinthians 15:20-23: Paul refers to Christ as the « firstfruits » of those who will be resurrected, emphasizing our union with Him in the resurrection.
These passages reinforce the idea that the Christian life is rooted in a living, growing, and organic connection to Christ.
Old Testament Imagery
- Psalm 1:3: « He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. » This image illustrates the spiritual prosperity of one who is connected to God, likened to a plant nourished by life-giving water.
- Isaiah 53:2: Jesus, the Suffering Servant, is described as a « tender shoot » or a « root out of dry ground. » This connects to the idea of our union with His suffering and resurrection.
Theological Interpretation
The image of « one plant » evokes several rich spiritual ideas:
- Vital Union: Just as a plant shares the same root and nutrients, our life in Christ flows from our union with Him.
- Transformation through the Cross: This union involves not only sharing Christ’s life but also His death. Just as a seed dies to produce a plant (John 12:24), our old self must die so that we can grow spiritually.
- Hope in Resurrection: Being « one plant with Him » means that, just as He was raised from the dead, we too will be resurrected (Romans 6:5, 1 Corinthians 15:22).
Practical Application
This image invites us to reflect:
- Am I deeply rooted in Christ, depending on Him for my spiritual growth?
- Do I live daily, putting my old self to death and allowing Christ’s new life to manifest in me?
- Do I trust in the hope of the resurrection, knowing that I am united with Christ?
Conclusion
The expression « united with him » or « one plant with Him » in Romans 6:5 is a powerful image of spiritual union with Christ, rooted in Greek language and enriched by other biblical passages. It depicts our participation in His death and resurrection, like two plants sharing the same root and destiny. It is an invitation to grow spiritually in Him and bear fruit for the Glory of God.