ἀγαθοεργέω – Pronunciation Guide: ah-gath-o-er-GEH-oh

Basic Definition

Strong’s G14: To do good, to perform good deeds, to actively work for the benefit of others. This compound verb combines ἀγαθός (good) with ἔργον (work), emphasizing intentional, beneficial action that produces positive results in others’ lives.

Word Study

• Part of Speech: Verb
• Origin: Compound of ἀγαθός (good) and ἔργον (work)

Morphology:

• ἀγαθοεργεῖν (Present Active Infinitive) – to do good
• ἀγαθοεργοῦντας (Present Active Participle, Accusative Plural Masculine) – those doing good
• ἀγαθοεργείτωσαν (Present Active Imperative, 3rd Person Plural) – let them do good

Word Origin & History

The compound verb ἀγαθοεργέω emerged from the classical Greek tradition of civic virtue and benefaction. In ancient Greek society, wealthy citizens were expected to serve as benefactors (εὐεργέτης) to their communities, financing public works and providing for the needy. This cultural practice of public beneficence shaped the word’s development.

This term gained particular significance in Hellenistic Judaism, where it became associated with righteous acts performed in accordance with divine law. The Septuagint’s influence helped transform the concept from mere civic duty to an expression of godly character.

Biblical Usage

In the New Testament, ἀγαθοεργέω appears exclusively in Paul’s pastoral epistles, where it takes on a distinctly Christian character. The apostle uses it to describe the active expression of faith through concrete acts of goodness, particularly emphasizing the responsibility of wealthy believers to use their resources for Kingdom purposes.

Key Passages:

• 1 Timothy 6:18 – Paul instructs wealthy believers to “do good” (ἀγαθοεργεῖν), linking generous action with spiritual richness
• Acts 14:17 – While not using the exact term, this verse reflects the concept of God’s ἀγαθοεργέω toward humanity

Cultural Insights

In the Greco-Roman world, public benefaction was a cornerstone of social stability and civic pride. Wealthy patrons would often inscribe their good works on stone monuments, a practice Paul subtly transforms by emphasizing heavenly rather than earthly recognition for good deeds.

Theological Significance

ἀγαθοεργέω represents more than random acts of kindness; it embodies the active expression of God’s character through His people. Just as the Father demonstrated His goodness through the gift of His Son, believers are called to manifest divine goodness through concrete actions.

This word bridges the gap between faith and works, showing how genuine belief naturally produces good works. It challenges the false dichotomy between believing and doing, presenting them as two sides of the same coin in authentic Christian experience.

Personal Application

Understanding ἀγαθοεργέω challenges us to move beyond passive faith to active engagement in doing good. It calls us to intentionally seek opportunities to benefit others, recognizing that such actions are not optional extras but essential expressions of Christ-like character.

Related Words

• ἀγαθός (good, beneficial) – See G18
• ἔργον (work, deed) – See G2041
• καλοποιέω (to do good) – See G2569
• εὐεργετέω (to do good, bestow benefits) – See G2109

Did you Know?

• The word appears only once in its exact form in the New Testament, making it a rare and specialized term
• Ancient Greek cities would often grant the title “benefactor” (εὐεργέτης) to citizens who demonstrated exceptional ἀγαθοεργέω
• Modern Greek still uses derivatives of this word in terms related to philanthropy and charitable work

Remember This

“True faith doesn’t just believe in good—it actively does good, transforming belief into blessing through concrete acts of divine love.”