χρηστεύομαι (chrēsteuomai)
chrēsteuomai
be kind
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb chrēsteuomai describes the active practice of kindness, specifically showing oneself mild and gentle toward others. It is not a passive feeling but a deliberate behavior rooted in service to those around us. This word appears only once in the New Testament, giving it a unique spotlight on the nature of love.
In 1 Corinthians 13:4, Paul uses this term to define how love behaves within the church community. By choosing this specific word for kindness, the text emphasizes that love is expressed through gentle, considerate actions rather than force or harshness. It suggests a tenderness that prioritizes the well-being of others above personal pride.
The root of the word connects to goodness and usefulness, implying that true kindness is practical. It is not merely an emotion but a way of interacting that builds up relationships. This single usage in Scripture highlights that love is fundamentally about how we treat people with patience and care.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word chrēsteuomai moves kindness from a vague feeling into a specific action. It describes how we actively treat others with gentleness and consideration. In 1 Corinthians 13:4, Paul places this term right after patience, showing that true love is not passive but deliberate. It is a choice to be mild and helpful, even when it is difficult.
This practical kindness builds up relationships rather than tearing them down. It prioritizes the well-being of others above personal pride or being right. When we choose this kind of gentle interaction, we reflect the character of Christ in our daily lives. It invites us to look for ways to serve those around us with a soft heart.
May your interactions today be marked by this active, thoughtful kindness. Let your words and actions bring comfort and strength to those you meet.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- is kind,1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- χρηστεύεται,1×
Key Verses
-
I Corinthians 13:4
Love is patient and is kind. Love doesn’t envy. Love doesn’t brag, is not proud,
Paul uses this specific verb here to define the active behavior of love, contrasting it with envy or pride.