The Greek word euárestos, represented by G2101, means fully agreeable and is translated as acceptable, accepted, or wellpleasing. It appears 9 times across 9 unique verses in the Bible. This term signifies a state or action that is profoundly pleasing, particularly in the sight of God.
In scripture, G2101 defines the aim of a transformed life. Believers are instructed to prove G1381 what is that good, acceptable G2101, and perfect will of God Romans 12:2. This pleasing status is achieved through concrete actions; for instance, presenting our bodies G4983 as a living G2198 sacrifice G2378 is deemed acceptable G2101 to God Romans 12:1. The concept extends to relationships, as the obedience of children to their parents G1118 is well pleasing G2101 to the Lord Colossians 3:20. The believer's ultimate ambition is to be accepted G2101 by God, whether present G1736 in the body or absent G1553 from it 2 Corinthians 5:9.
Several related words help clarify the meaning of being wellpleasing to God:
- G1184 dektós (approved; (figuratively) propitious:-- accepted(-table)): This word is used in conjunction with G2101 to emphasize approval. A sacrificial gift is described as acceptable G1184 and wellpleasing G2101 to God Philippians 4:18.
- G1381 dokimázō (to test (literally or figuratively); by implication, to approve): This term connects the act of discernment with what is pleasing. Believers are to prove G1381 what is acceptable G2101 to the Lord Ephesians 5:10.
- G1398 douleúō (to be a slave to (literal or figurative, involuntary or voluntary):--be in bondage, (do) serve(-ice)): This shows that a life of service leads to being acceptable. One who serveth G1398 Christ is acceptable G2101 to God Romans 14:18.
- G5293 hypotássō (to subordinate; reflexively, to obey): This highlights the theme of obedience, as servants are exhorted to be obedient G5293 and please them well G2101 in all things Titus 2:9.
The theological weight of G2101 is significant, highlighting key aspects of the Christian walk:
- A Transformed Life: Being acceptable G2101 is an outcome of spiritual transformation. It is not by being conformed G4964 to the world, but by being transformed G3339 by the renewing G342 of the mind G3563 that a believer can prove God's acceptable will Romans 12:2.
- Worship as a Living Sacrifice: The call to present G3936 our bodies G4983 as a living G2198 sacrifice G2378 that is holy G40 and acceptable G2101 to God redefines worship. It is a continuous state of being, which is our reasonable G3050 service G2999 Romans 12:1.
- The Goal of Christian Conduct: The believer's core ambition is to labour G5389 to be accepted G2101 by God 2 Corinthians 5:9. This is demonstrated in practical obedience that is wellpleasing G2101 to Him, from family relationships to service (Colossians 3:20, Titus 2:9).
In summary, G2101 euárestos is more than just passing approval; it describes a life that is "fully agreeable" to God. This state is the goal of the believer, achieved through a transformed mind, a life offered as a living sacrifice, and practical acts of service and obedience. It encapsulates the Christian's earnest desire to live a life that is fundamentally wellpleasing in His sight.
TRV