The Greek word euarestéō, represented by G2100, means to gratify entirely or to please well. It is a focused term, appearing only 3 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible, with all occurrences found in the book of Hebrews. Its meaning is tied to the actions and attitudes that are wholly acceptable to God.
In its biblical usage, G2100 consistently describes the nature of a relationship with God. The first instance concerns Enoch, who received a testimony that he pleased God before being translated Hebrews 11:5. This is immediately followed by the declaration that without faith, it is impossible to please God, as one must believe He exists and is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him Hebrews 11:6. Finally, the word is used to show that God is well pleased with practical "sacrifices" such as doing good and communicating Hebrews 13:16.
Several related words help clarify how one may please God:
- G4102 pístis (faith): Defined as persuasion or moral conviction, this is the essential foundation for pleasing God Hebrews 11:6. Without it, any attempt is deemed impossible.
- G2378 thysía (sacrifice): This term, meaning "sacrifice (the act or the victim, literally or figuratively)," is applied to the actions of believers. God is pleased with such spiritual sacrifices as doing good and fellowship Hebrews 13:16.
- G2140 eupoiḯa (to do good): This word for "well-doing, i.e. beneficence" is explicitly mentioned as a sacrifice that is well pleasing to God Hebrews 13:16.
The theological significance of G2100 is direct and profound, outlining the requirements for a life that gratifies God.
- Faith as the Prerequisite: The most crucial principle is that pleasing God begins with faith G4102. It is the non-negotiable starting point for any relationship with Him Hebrews 11:6.
- Action as an Expression of Faith: Pleasing God is not merely an internal belief but is expressed through tangible actions. Doing good and communicating, described as sacrifices G2378, are shown to be well pleasing to Him Hebrews 13:16.
- A Pleasing Life as a Testimony: The example of Enoch demonstrates that a person's life can be defined by the quality of pleasing God, serving as a powerful testimony Hebrews 11:5.
In summary, G2100 provides a concise and powerful definition of what gratifies God. Though its use is limited to the book of Hebrews, it establishes a clear theological framework: a life that pleases God is rooted in unwavering faith G4102 and demonstrated through active sacrifices G2378 of goodness and fellowship. It shifts the focus from ritual to a relationship built on belief and expressed in righteous living.
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