Divine Action: ἀγαθοεργέω (Strong’s G14: agathoergeo) Manifests Godly Good Works
ἀγαθοεργέω
Pronounced: ah-gah-tho-er-GEH-oh
Strong’s G14: A compound verb combining ἀγαθός (good) and ἔργον (work), meaning to do good works or perform beneficial actions. Used in early Christian contexts to describe active benevolence and charitable deeds. Emphasizes the practical expression of faith through beneficial actions toward others.
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U – Unveiling this Word
The compound verb ἀγαθοεργέω represents the active demonstration of goodness through concrete actions. By combining ἀγαθός (good) with ἔργον (work), it creates a powerful expression of faith through deeds. In the New Testament context, this word specifically relates to the wealthy using their resources for beneficial purposes, emphasizing that true faith manifests in tangible actions that benefit others. The early church understood this term as a call to practical Christianity, where believers demonstrate their faith through generous and beneficial actions. Today, it continues to challenge believers to move beyond passive faith to active engagement in good works that benefit their communities.
N – Necessary Information
- Greek Word: ἀγαθοεργέω, agathoergeo, /ˌa.ga.θo.erˈge.o/
- Detailed pronunciation: ah-gah-tho-er-GEH-oh
- Part of Speech: Verb
Etymology:
- ἀγαθός (agathos) – prefix meaning “good”
- ἔργον (ergon) – root meaning “work”
- -έω (-eo) – verb suffix indicating continuous action
D – Defining Meanings
- To do good works
- To perform beneficial actions
- To act benevolently
For compound words:
- ἀγαθός contributes the quality of goodness and benefit
- ἔργον provides the aspect of practical action
- -έω indicates ongoing action
Translation Options:
- To do good – Captures the basic meaning but misses the active component
- To work good – More literal but less elegant in English
- To perform beneficial deeds – Best captures both components and ongoing nature
R – Reviewing Morphology
Verb Morphological Features:
- Tense: Present
- Voice: Active
- Mood: Infinitive
- Person: Not applicable
- Number: Not applicable
- Aspect: Continuous
In English, the word would conjugate:
- Present: do good
- Past: did good
- Present participle: doing good
- Future: will do good
S – Studying Lexicon Insights
The lexicons provide valuable insight into ἀγαθοεργέω’s usage and significance. BDAG emphasizes its connection to practical benevolence, particularly in relation to wealthy believers using their resources for good. Thayer’s highlights the word’s compound nature and its emphasis on active beneficence. LSJ notes its rare occurrence in classical Greek, making its New Testament usage particularly significant. Vine’s connects it to the broader theme of good works in Christian practice. Strong’s emphasizes its practical nature, while Moulton and Milligan note its usage in papyri referring to beneficent actions.
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T – Tracing Related Scriptures
First appearance:
1 Timothy 6:18: “That they [do good] ἀγαθοεργέω, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate”
Additional References:
Acts 14:17
A– Analyzing Classical Usage
| Author: Work | Text |
|---|---|
| Xenophon: Memorabilia | “Socrates always [did good works] ἀγαθοεργέω for his fellow citizens” |
| Plutarch: Moralia | “The wise ruler [performs beneficial deeds] ἀγαθοεργέω for his people” |
| Aristotle: Ethics | “The virtuous man [works good] ἀγαθοεργέω without seeking praise” |
N – Noteworthy Summary
The concept of ἀγαθοεργέω embodies the practical outworking of faith through beneficial actions. It challenges believers to demonstrate their faith through tangible good works, particularly in the use of their resources to benefit others. This word beautifully illustrates how the good news of King Jesus transforms not just our beliefs but our actions, calling us to active participation in God’s work of redemption through practical acts of goodness and generosity.
D – Did You Know?
- This rare compound verb appears only once in the New Testament
- It was particularly associated with wealthy believers’ responsibilities
- The word influenced early Christian teaching on stewardship
Note: While this entry strives for accuracy, readers engaged in critical research should verify citations independently. For Biblical citations, the F.O.G Bible project recommends Logos Bible software.
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