ἀγαθοποιΐα
the doing of that which is good
Definition
ἀγαθοποιΐα refers specifically to the practice or activity of doing good. It denotes the concrete, active expression of benevolence and moral uprightness, not just the abstract quality of goodness. In its sole New Testament occurrence, it is presented as the deliberate, faithful conduct of a believer, especially in the face of suffering or opposition. This 'well-doing' is an active, outward demonstration of one's faith and trust in God.
Biblical Usage
This word is used only once in the New Testament, in 1 Peter 4:19. The context is one of persecution and suffering for the sake of Christ. Peter instructs believers who suffer according to God's will to 'entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good' (ἐν ἀγαθοποιΐᾳ). Here, the word encapsulates the proper, faithful response of a Christian to unjust suffering: to continue steadfastly in righteous conduct and benevolent actions.
Etymology
Derived from the adjective ἀγαθός (agathos, G18), meaning 'good,' and the noun ποιΐα (poiia), from the verb ποιέω (poieō, G4160), meaning 'to do' or 'to make.' It is a compound noun literally meaning 'good-doing' or 'the doing of good.' The meaning is straightforward, emphasizing the active performance of good deeds.
Semantic Range
This word is theologically significant as it links ethical action directly to trust in God's sovereignty. In 1 Peter 4:19, 'well-doing' (ἀγαθοποιΐα) is not presented as a means to earn salvation but as the characteristic behavior of those who are already entrusting themselves to God. It underscores that genuine faith manifests in persistent righteous living, even—and especially—under trial. Understanding this Greek term highlights that Christian perseverance is active, not passive.
In the Greco-Roman world, 'doing good' was a recognized civic virtue, often associated with public benefaction (euergetism). Peter's use of the term, however, reorients it from public honor to a matter of faithful obedience to God, even when such actions lead to social ostracism or persecution. It transforms a common cultural ideal into a distinctly Christian ethic rooted in trust in God.
ἀγαθωσύνη (agathōsynē, G19) — the inner quality or virtue of goodness. καλοποιέω (kalopoieō, G2569) — a verb meaning 'to do what is right or honorable.'
Word Details
How this works
Definitions are from the Dodson Greek-English Lexicon, a concise public-domain resource suitable for introductory word study. Brief glosses are supplemented by STEPBible TBESG data (CC BY 4.0). For advanced research, standard scholarly references include BDAG (Danker, 3rd ed.) and LSJ.
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