ἐνεργής, ἐναργής (energēs, enargēs)
energēs, enargēs
effective
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The adjective energei̓s describes something that is actively at work or effectively producing a result. Derived from roots meaning "in" and "work," it conveys more than simple activity; it implies power in action. The sources highlight its use in contexts where force or efficacy is evident, such as when Paul speaks of an open door for ministry in Corinth (1 Corinthians 16:9) or when he prays for Philemon’s faith to be effective (Philemon 6).
A key distinction appears in Hebrews 4:12, where the word modifies the word of God. Here it emphasizes that Scripture is not passive text but a living power that penetrates deeply into human consciousness. Translators often render this as "effective" or "active," capturing the sense that the divine message works dynamically rather than merely informing intellectually.
This term underscores the tangible impact of spiritual realities. It suggests that true efficacy is measured by actual results and inner transformation, not just outward appearance. The word serves as a reminder that God’s actions are powerful and purposeful.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word ἐνεργής carries a sense of power in action. It describes something that is actively at work, producing real results rather than just existing on paper. When we encounter this term in Scripture, we are reminded that God’s promises and actions are not passive. They have force and efficacy, working dynamically within our lives to bring about change.
In passages like Hebrews 4:12, the word is applied to the word of God, highlighting its living nature. It penetrates deeply into human consciousness, discerning thoughts and intentions. This offers comfort because it means spiritual realities are tangible and impactful. We do not serve a distant deity but one whose message actively shapes our inner world.
This understanding invites us to trust in the effectiveness of God’s work. Whether through an open door for ministry or the strengthening of faith, His power is at play. We can rest assured that His actions are purposeful and result-oriented, leading to genuine transformation rather than mere outward appearance.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- productive1×
- effective1×
- active1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἐνεργὴς3×
Key Verses
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Hebrews 4:12
For the word of God is living and active, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and is able to discern the thoughts and intentions of the heart.
This verse applies the term to Scripture itself, emphasizing that God's word is a living power that penetrates deeply into human consciousness rather than being passive text.
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Philemon 1:6
that the fellowship of your faith may become effective in the knowledge of every good thing which is in us in Christ Jesus.
Paul prays for Philemon's faith to become effective in knowing God's good works, showing the word describes active results in spiritual growth.