κακοποιός (kakopoios)

kakopoios

wrongdoing

G2555 · Greek · New Testament · 4 verses

Language: Koine Greek
Testament: New Testament
Occurrences: 4 verses
Root: —

Word Overview

The adjective kakopoios literally means "doing evil," formed from the root for bad or harmful and the verb to make or do. In the New Testament, it functions as a substantive noun referring to an "evil-doer" or malefactor. The term appears exclusively in the First Epistle of Peter, where it describes those who oppose the Christian witness through unjust actions.

Peter uses this word to contrast believers with their persecutors. He urges Christians to live honorably so that even those who slander them may see their good deeds and glorify God (1 Peter 2:12). The term also appears in a discussion of civil authority, noting that rulers are not a terror to good conduct but to the evil-doer (1 Peter 2:14), and it warns against suffering for being an evil-doer (1 Peter 4:15).

This usage highlights a clear moral distinction. The word does not describe general human weakness but active wrongdoing that invites judgment. By using this specific term, Peter emphasizes that the Christian’s reputation should be so upright that even critics are forced to acknowledge the truth of their lives.

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

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The word kakopoios describes active wrongdoing, not just general weakness or mistake. It points to actions that harm others and oppose God’s will. Peter uses it to show a clear line between those who live in Christ and those who reject His way.

When you face criticism or unfair treatment, remember that your reputation is built on good works, not on defending yourself. Even when people speak against you as evildoers, your consistent kindness can silence their accusations. This is not about winning arguments but about letting your life point others to God.

Trust that God sees your integrity. He uses your steady faithfulness to turn hostility into curiosity. Let your conduct be so honest and loving that even critics are forced to acknowledge the truth of your walk with Him.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 4 verses where it appears, by frequency.

to evildoers,1×
to evildoers1×
evildoers,1×
an evildoer1×

Forms in the text

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

κακοποιῶν,3×
κακοποιὸς1×

Key Verses

I Peter 2:12
having good behavior among the nations, so in that of which they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good works and glorify God in the day of visitation.

This verse shows how good behavior can silence accusations from those who label believers as evildoers.
I Peter 2:14
or to governors, as sent by him for vengeance on evildoers and for praise to those who do well.

Here the term highlights that civil authority is designed to punish active wrongdoing, not to trouble those who do right.
I Peter 3:16
having a good conscience. Thus, while you are spoken against as evildoers, they may be disappointed who curse your good way of life in Christ.

Peter explains that a clear conscience helps believers endure slander without retaliating against those who call them evildoers.
I Peter 4:15
But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or a thief, or an evil doer, or a meddler in other men’s matters.

This occurrence warns against suffering for actual crimes, distinguishing Christian persecution from guilt for evil deeds.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does kakopoios mean in the New Testament?

It means 'evildoer' or one who actively commits wrongdoing. Peter uses it to describe those who oppose Christians through unjust actions, not just general sinners.

How is kakopoios different from a sinner?

While all people sin, kakopoios specifically refers to active, harmful behavior that opposes God’s order. It implies a deliberate choice to do evil rather than mere human weakness.

Where does this word appear in the Bible?

It appears four times in 1 Peter (2:12, 2:14, 3:16, 4:15). Peter uses it to contrast Christian conduct with the malicious actions of persecutors.

Why does Peter mention evildoers so often?

He wants believers to understand that criticism is not always a sign of failure. Sometimes good people are labeled as wrongdoers by those who oppose God’s truth.

Every Occurrence (4 verses across 1 books)

I Peter 4 verses

I Peter 2:12

having good behavior among the nations, so in that of which they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good…

I Peter 2:14

or to governors, as sent by him for vengeance on evildoers and for praise to those who do well.

I Peter 3:16

having a good conscience. Thus, while you are spoken against as evildoers, they may be disappointed who curse your good…

I Peter 4:15

But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or a thief, or an evil doer, or a meddler in other men’s matters.