### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **agathopoiéō**, represented by `{{G15}}`, means **to be a well-doer** as either a favor or a duty. It appears **11 times** across **10 unique verses** in the Bible. The term consistently refers to the act of doing good, often in a context that requires deliberate moral choice.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G15}}` is used to describe both divine and human action. God himself is shown to **do good** by providing rain and fruitful seasons, leaving a witness of His nature [[Acts 14:17]]. Jesus uses the term to challenge the legalism of the Sabbath, asking if it is lawful **to do good** or to do evil on that day ([[Mark 3:4]], [[Luke 6:9]]). The apostle Peter encourages believers that suffering for **well doing** is acceptable with God [[1 Peter 2:20]] and is better than suffering for evil doing [[1 Peter 3:17]]. The concept is also presented reciprocally, questioning what merit there is if you only **do good** to those who **do good** to you [[Luke 6:33]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of doing good:
* `{{G18}}` **agathós**: This primary word for **"good"** is the root of `{{G15}}`. The connection is clear in [[3 John 1:11]], which encourages believers to follow what is **good** `{{G18}}`, stating that he who **doeth good** `{{G15}}` is of God.
* `{{G2554}}` **kakopoiéō**: Defined as **to be a bad-doer**, this word is the direct antonym of `{{G15}}`. It is frequently used in opposition, as when Jesus asks if it is lawful to **do good** `{{G15}}` or **to do evil** `{{G2554}}` on the Sabbath [[Luke 6:9]].
* `{{G1325}}` **dídōmi**: Meaning **to give**, this action is presented as a form of doing good. God **did good** `{{G15}}` and **gave** `{{G1325}}` rain from heaven [[Acts 14:17]], linking the act of giving directly to the principle of well-doing.
* `{{G2556}}` **kakós**: This word for **evil** or **bad** is contrasted with the root of `{{G15}}`. Believers are instructed not to follow that which is **evil** `{{G2556}}`, but that which is good `{{G18}}` [[3 John 1:11]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G15}}` is significant, highlighting a core tenet of Christian ethics.
* **An Action of God:** The act of doing good is fundamentally tied to the nature of God. He who **doeth good** is of God [[3 John 1:11]], and God Himself is shown to **do good** as a witness to humanity [[Acts 14:17]].
* **A Divine Command:** Believers are commanded **to do good**, even to their enemies, with the promise that their reward will be great [[Luke 6:35]]. This elevates the action from a mere suggestion to a specific instruction.
* **The Will of God:** Doing good is explicitly identified as the "will of God," an action by which believers can put to silence the ignorance of others [[1 Peter 2:15]].
* **A Moral Dichotomy:** The Bible repeatedly frames the choice **to do good** `{{G15}}` in direct opposition **to do evil** `{{G2554}}`, presenting it not as one option among many, but as a clear and righteous path [[1 Peter 3:17]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G15}}` is a crucial action-oriented word in the New Testament. It moves beyond a passive state of being good to the active and deliberate choice **to do good**. This action is presented as an imitation of God's own character, a fulfillment of His will, and a fundamental duty for believers. Whether directed at friends or enemies, the act of doing good stands as a clear biblical mandate in direct contrast to doing evil.
TRV