εὐεργεσία (euergesia)
euergesia
good deed
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun euergesia refers to a concrete act of kindness or a beneficial deed performed for another person. Derived from the word for "benefactor," it describes the tangible result of good will rather than just an internal feeling. In the New Testament, this term appears only twice, making its usage distinct and focused.
In Acts 4:9, Peter uses the word to describe the healing of a lame man as a benefit received by the community. Similarly, in 1 Timothy 6:2, Paul commends believers for remembering those who share spiritual gifts through such acts of service. The sources note that this concept often involves a personal connection, where the good deed is directed toward specific individuals or groups.
Translators typically render euergesia as "good deed" or "benefit." This choice highlights the practical nature of the action. Unlike abstract virtues, this word points to something done and received. It underscores that Christian love often takes the form of visible, helpful actions that improve the lives of others.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Greek word euergesia points to a tangible good deed, moving beyond internal feelings to show how love looks in practice. In Acts 4:9, Peter highlights the healing of a crippled man as a concrete benefit received by the community. This reminds us that faith is often expressed through visible actions that improve the lives of others around us.
Paul also uses this concept in 1 Timothy 6:2 to encourage believers who serve their masters. He notes that those who partake of the benefit are beloved, suggesting that service creates a bond of mutual care. When we perform good deeds, we participate in God’s kindness and strengthen the connections within our community.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- good service1×
- a good work1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- εὐεργεσίᾳ1×
- εὐεργεσίας1×
Key Verses
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Acts 4:9
if we are examined today concerning a good deed done to a crippled man, by what means this man has been healed,
Peter uses this term to define the healing of a lame man as a specific benefit received by the community, grounding his defense in concrete action.
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I Timothy 6:2
Those who have believing masters, let them not despise them because they are brothers, but rather let them serve them, because those who partake of the benefit are believing and beloved. Teach and exhort these things.
Paul connects the concept of benefiting from service with the identity of believers as 'beloved,' showing how good deeds reinforce spiritual bonds.