ἀγαθοποιέω (agathopoieō)
agathopoieō
to do good
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 8 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb agathopoieō means to actively do good or perform acts that benefit others. It combines the words for "good" and "to make," pointing to concrete actions rather than just good intentions. In the New Testament, it appears in key passages where Jesus asks whether it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath (Mark 3:4; Luke 6:9) and in Peter’s letters, where believers are urged to silence ignorance by doing good (1 Peter 2:15).
This word carries a strong sense of moral rightness. It is not merely kindness but doing what is right and profitable for another’s welfare. The sources note its use with the accusative of person, showing it is directed toward specific individuals, as when Jesus teaches loving enemies by doing good to them (Luke 6:33). Translators often render it simply as "do good," but the Greek emphasizes the active, beneficial nature of the deed.
Its presence in Luke and 1 Peter highlights its importance in Christian ethics. It describes a life marked by positive action that counters evil or ignorance. The word does not imply passive virtue but engaged righteousness, reflecting a commitment to act for the good of others in tangible ways.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word for doing good in Greek points to active, tangible deeds rather than passive feelings. It combines the idea of what is beneficial with the act of making or creating. When Jesus asks if it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath, He highlights that moral rightness often requires immediate action. This is not about vague kindness but specific acts that bring benefit to another person.
Christian life calls us to this kind of engaged righteousness. Peter urges believers to silence ignorance through well-doing, showing that our actions speak louder than arguments. We are invited to lend and help even when we expect nothing in return. This reflects the character of God, who is kind even to those who do not appreciate it.
Doing good is a practical way to reflect divine love. It counters evil with positive action and builds up our communities. When we choose to act for the welfare of others, we participate in God's work of restoration. This active faith brings peace and aligns us with the will of God.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 8 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- doing good5×
- you shall do good1×
- to do good1×
- doing good to1×
- do good1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἀγαθοποιοῦντας2×
- ἀγαθοποιῶν1×
- ἀγαθοποιῆτε1×
- ἀγαθοποιῆσαι1×
- ἀγαθοποιοῦσαι1×
- ἀγαθοποιοῦντες1×
- ἀγαθοποιοῦντας,1×
- ἀγαθοποιεῖτε1×
Key Verses
-
Luke 6:9
Then Jesus said to them, “I will ask you something: Is it lawful on the Sabbath to do good, or to do harm? To save a life, or to kill?”
Jesus uses this term to show that doing good is always lawful, even on the Sabbath, prioritizing human welfare over rigid rules.
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Luke 6:35
But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing back; and your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High; for he is kind toward the unthankful and evil.
The command to do good without expecting repayment demonstrates a selfless love that mirrors God's kindness to the unthankful.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Greek word agathopoieō mean?
How is this different from general kindness?
Where does this word appear in the New Testament?
Every Occurrence (8 verses across 3 books)
Luke 3 verses
Then Jesus said to them, “I will ask you something: Is it lawful on the Sabbath to do good, or to do harm? To save a…
Luke 6:33If you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same.
Luke 6:35But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing back; and your reward will be great, and you will be…