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ἀγαθοποιΐα (agathopoiia)

agathopoiia

doing good

G0016 · Greek · New Testament · 1 verses

Quick Reference

Language
Koine Greek
Testament
New Testament
Occurrences
1 verses
Root
—

Word Overview

The noun agathopoiia translates simply to "well-doing" or "doing good." It describes a consistent course of right action rather than a single isolated deed. The word combines terms for "good" and "making," pointing to the active practice of virtue in daily life.

Its sole New Testament occurrence appears in 1 Peter 4:19, where believers are encouraged to entrust their souls to God while continuing to do good. This context highlights that well-doing is a faithful response to suffering, not merely a social duty. The term emphasizes the moral quality of one's conduct.

Translators often render it as "doing good" or "well-doing." Unlike words for general kindness, this term carries a stronger sense of ethical integrity and righteous behavior. It reflects a life shaped by moral purpose, where actions align with what is right and beneficial to others.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

When life brings hardship that aligns with God’s will, it is easy to feel discouraged or question your path. The word for doing good here reminds us that our actions carry weight even when they are difficult. It is not about performing perfectly, but about maintaining a steady course of right action despite the pain you may be facing.

This kind of well-doing is a faithful response to suffering rather than just a social duty. By continuing to act with integrity and kindness when it hurts most, you reflect the character of God in a broken world. It is an invitation to trust your soul to Him, knowing that He is faithful even when circumstances are unclear.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • well doing.1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

  • ἀγαθοποιΐᾳ.¶1×

Frequently Asked Questions

What does agathopoiia mean in the Bible?

It is a Greek noun that translates to 'doing good' or 'well-doing.' It refers to a consistent pattern of right action and ethical integrity, rather than a single isolated act of kindness.

Where does this word appear in the New Testament?

It appears only once, in 1 Peter 4:19. The context encourages believers to continue doing good even when they suffer according to God's will.

How is this different from general kindness?

While kindness can be a momentary feeling or act, this term emphasizes a structured course of moral behavior. It suggests that your actions are shaped by a deeper purpose and align with what is truly right.

Every Occurrence (1 verses across 1 books)