εὐάρεστος

acceptable, well-pleasing

Definition

The adjective εὐάρεστος fundamentally means 'well-pleasing' or 'acceptable,' with a strong emphasis on being pleasing to a specific person, especially God. In the New Testament, it consistently describes actions, offerings, or a life that is pleasing and acceptable to God, as seen in Romans 12:1-2 where believers are urged to present their bodies as a 'living sacrifice' that is εὐάρεστος to God. In some contexts, it extends to being pleasing to human authorities, such as slaves being 'well-pleasing' to their masters in Titus 2:9 and Colossians 3:20, though even these human relationships are framed within a larger divine framework.

Biblical Usage

This word is used 9 times, predominantly in the Pauline epistles. Its usage consistently frames Christian ethics and worship in terms of what is pleasing to God. Key patterns include describing sacrificial worship (Romans 12:1, Philippians 4:18), the renewed mind's ability to discern God's will (Romans 12:2, Ephesians 5:10), and the aim of the Christian life (2 Corinthians 5:9). It is also applied to conduct within human relationships, specifically children and slaves, instructing them to be pleasing as part of their service 'as to the Lord' (Colossians 3:20, Titus 2:9).

Etymology

Derived from the Greek prefix εὖ (eu, meaning 'well' or 'good') and the verb ἀρέσκω (areskō, meaning 'to please' or 'to be agreeable'). It is a compound adjective literally meaning 'well-pleasing.' The root verb is common in Greek literature for describing what is acceptable or satisfying to someone, often a deity or superior.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it defines the proper goal of the Christian life: to live in a manner that is pleasing and acceptable to God. It shifts the focus of morality and worship from mere external compliance to a heartfelt desire to delight God, rooted in a transformed mind (Romans 12:2). Understanding εὐάρεστος enriches reading by highlighting that acceptable Christian service is not about earning favor but is a grateful response to God's mercy, offered through Christ, in whom we are ultimately 'well-pleasing' (see Ephesians 1:6).

In the Greco-Roman world, the concept of being 'well-pleasing' was central to patron-client relationships and religious sacrifice, where one sought to gain the favor of a superior or a god. Paul and other New Testament writers adopt this culturally understood framework but radically redefine it: the one to be pleased is the one true God, and the 'acceptable' sacrifice is not an animal but the believer's entire life of faithful obedience offered through Christ.

δεκτός (dektos, G1184) — emphasizes being received or accepted, often in the sense of being welcome or favorable. εὐπρόσδεκτος (euprosdektos, G2144) — a stronger compound meaning 'fully acceptable' or 'very welcome,' used for offerings and prayers.

Word Details

Scripture References