### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb ἀγαθοεργέω (G14), transliterated as *agathoergéō*, is a compound word derived from ἀγαθός (agathos - `{{G18}}`), meaning "good" or "beneficial," and ἔργον (ergon - `{{G2041}}`), meaning "work" or "deed." Therefore, its core meaning is "to work good," "to do good deeds," or "to perform acts of benevolence." It signifies active engagement in that which is intrinsically good, morally upright, and beneficial to others. The emphasis is not merely on possessing good character, but on the tangible, external expression of that goodness through action. Its semantic range primarily centers on the practical outworking of righteousness and love.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb ἀγαθοεργέω (G14) appears in the New Testament in a singular, yet highly significant, instance. It is found in 1 Timothy 6:18, within Paul's instructions to Timothy regarding the conduct of wealthy believers: "Instruct them to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share." [[1 Timothy 6:18]] In this context, the command to ἀγαθοεργέω is an imperative, urging those with material resources to actively employ their wealth for benevolent purposes. It is immediately followed by a parallel phrase, "to be rich in good works" (ἔργοις ἀγαθοῖς), reinforcing the idea that outward acts of kindness, generosity, and sharing are not optional but are expected expressions of Christian faith for those whom God has blessed with abundance. The passage contrasts the fleeting nature of earthly riches with the enduring value of spiritual investment made through good deeds, which are described as "laying up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life." [[1 Timothy 6:19]] Thus, ἀγαθοεργέω in this context encapsulates the practical outworking of Christian stewardship and love for one's neighbor.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Greek words and concepts illuminate the meaning of ἀγαθοεργέω (G14):
* ἀγαθός (agathos - `{{G18}}`): The root adjective for "good," denoting intrinsic goodness, moral excellence, or that which is beneficial. ἀγαθοεργέω is the verb form of putting this goodness into action.
* ἔργον (ergon - `{{G2041}}`): "Work," "deed," or "action." This noun underscores the active and practical nature of ἀγαθοεργέω.
* ἀγαθοποιέω (agathopoieō - `{{G15}}`): A closely related verb, also meaning "to do good" or "to do what is right." While very similar, ἀγαθοεργέω might carry a slightly stronger nuance of "working" or "performing" good deeds, emphasizing the sustained effort or the output of beneficial actions. Both terms convey the active performance of good.
* καλός (kalos - `{{G2570}}`): "Good," "beautiful," "noble." Often used to describe that which is outwardly commendable, honorable, or beautiful in a moral sense. While ἀγαθός refers to intrinsic goodness, καλός often points to the attractive or exemplary aspect of good deeds.
* "Good works" (ἔργα ἀγαθά): This common New Testament phrase (e.g., [[Ephesians 2:10]], [[Titus 2:7]]) is the noun form of the concept expressed by ἀγαθοεργέω. It signifies the totality of righteous and benevolent actions that flow from a regenerate heart.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of ἀγαθοεργέω (G14) is profound, highlighting key aspects of Christian life and ethics:
* **Active Righteousness:** The word emphasizes that Christian faith is not merely intellectual assent or passive belief, but demands active, tangible expression. It calls believers to move beyond abstaining from evil to actively pursuing and performing good. This aligns with the New Testament's consistent call for believers to be doers of the Word, not merely hearers ([[James 1:22]]).
* **Stewardship and Generosity:** As seen in [[1 Timothy 6:18]], ἀγαθοεργέω is directly linked to the responsible and generous use of material wealth. It underscores the biblical principle that all resources belong to God and are entrusted to believers for the purpose of His glory and the benefit of others. It serves as a strong counter-cultural command against selfish accumulation and encourages a lifestyle of open-handed sharing.
* **Evidence of Genuine Faith:** While salvation is by grace through faith apart from works ([[Ephesians 2:8-9]]), good works are presented as the natural and necessary fruit of a transformed life. Believers are "created in Christ Jesus for good works" ([[Ephesians 2:10]]). ἀγαθοεργέω thus points to the practical outworking of faith, demonstrating its reality and vitality.
* **Imitation of God:** God Himself is the ultimate doer of good, continually demonstrating His benevolence towards all creation. Believers are called to imitate His character by actively doing good to others, even to enemies ([[Matthew 5:44-48]]). ἀγαθοεργέω is a reflection of divine love in human action.
### Summary
ἀγαθοεργέω (G14) is a powerful Greek verb meaning "to work good" or "to do good deeds," formed from ἀγαθός (good) and ἔργον (work). Its single occurrence in the New Testament, [[1 Timothy 6:18]], serves as a direct command to believers, particularly those with wealth, to actively engage in benevolent actions, characterized by generosity and sharing. Theologically, ἀγαθοεργέω underscores the imperative for active righteousness, the importance of responsible stewardship of God-given resources, and the role of good works as tangible evidence of genuine faith. It calls believers to embody God's own benevolent character through their practical actions in the world.
TRV