### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb euergetéō (`{{G2109}}`) is derived from the noun euergétēs (`{{G2110}}`), meaning "benefactor." At its core, euergetéō signifies "to do good," "to perform beneficial acts," or "to be philanthropic." It combines the prefix eu- (good, well) with érgon (`{{G2041}}`, work, deed), thus literally meaning "to do good works." This term emphasizes active, intentional, and positive action that results in benefit or well-being for others. It is not merely a state of being good, but the dynamic exercise of goodness through tangible deeds. The semantic range points to acts of kindness, healing, provision, and any form of benevolent intervention that alleviates suffering or promotes flourishing.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb euergetéō (`{{G2109}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in the book of Acts, where it describes the ministry of Jesus Christ. In [[Acts 10:38]], Peter, in his sermon to Cornelius's household, declares: "how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, who went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with Him."
This solitary occurrence is profoundly significant. It encapsulates the essence of Jesus' earthly ministry. The phrase "doing good" (euergetōn) here is not a general descriptor but a specific characterization of Jesus' active compassion. It is immediately followed by a more specific elucidation: "healing all who were oppressed by the devil." This demonstrates that Jesus' "doing good" was practical, tangible, and confrontational, directly counteracting the destructive works of the devil. His beneficence was divinely empowered ("anointed with the Holy Spirit and with power") and divinely affirmed ("for God was with Him"). Thus, euergetéō in this context portrays Jesus as the ultimate divine benefactor, whose every action was geared towards the restoration and well-being of humanity, particularly those suffering under oppression.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Greek terms and theological concepts illuminate the meaning of euergetéō (`{{G2109}}`):
* **euergétēs (`{{G2110}}`):** The noun form, meaning "benefactor." This term was often used in the ancient world for rulers or wealthy individuals who performed public acts of charity or service. In the New Testament, it appears in [[Luke 22:25]] where Jesus contrasts the "benefactors" of the world with the true servant leadership of His disciples.
* **agathourgéō (`{{G17}}`):** Also meaning "to do good," found in [[1 Timothy 6:18]]. While similar, euergetéō often carries a nuance of public or official beneficence, whereas agathourgéō can be more general.
* **agathos (`{{G18}}`):** A common adjective meaning "good" in a moral or intrinsic sense. euergetéō describes the *action* of being agathos.
* **kalos (`{{G2570}}`):** Meaning "good," "beautiful," or "honorable." While agathos emphasizes intrinsic goodness, kalos often implies a goodness that is also outwardly admirable. euergetéō embodies both.
* **ergon (`{{G2041}}`):** "Work" or "deed." The root of euergetéō, highlighting the active, performative nature of the word.
* **Benevolence and Philanthropy:** These English terms capture the essence of euergetéō, denoting an active desire and effort to do good to others.
* **Divine Compassion:** The acts of euergetéō performed by Jesus are a manifestation of God's profound compassion for humanity.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of euergetéō (`{{G2109}}`) is profound, primarily because it is used to characterize the very ministry of Jesus Christ.
1. **Revelation of God's Character:** Jesus' "doing good" reveals the active beneficence of God Himself. God is not merely good in essence, but actively intervenes in the world to bring about good, healing, and liberation. This challenges any perception of God as distant or passive.
2. **The Nature of Christ's Ministry:** Jesus' mission was fundamentally redemptive and restorative. His euergetéō was not incidental but central to His identity as the Messiah. He came not to be served, but to serve, and to give His life (cf. [[Mark 10:45]]). His works of healing and deliverance were not just miracles, but concrete expressions of divine love breaking into a broken world.
3. **Counteracting Evil:** The context of [[Acts 10:38]] explicitly links Jesus' euergetéō to "healing all who were oppressed by the devil." This highlights that divine beneficence is inherently antithetical to the works of evil. Jesus' acts of goodness were a direct assault on the kingdom of darkness, demonstrating God's power over sickness, bondage, and spiritual oppression.
4. **Imitation of Christ:** While euergetéō is specifically applied to Jesus, it sets a paradigm for Christian living. Believers are called to imitate Christ, to be "doers of the word, and not hearers only" ([[James 1:22]]). This implies an active, benevolent engagement with the world, seeking to alleviate suffering and promote righteousness through tangible deeds, empowered by the same Spirit that anointed Jesus.
### Summary
Euergetéō (`{{G2109}}`) is a potent Greek verb meaning "to do good" or "to perform beneficial acts." Though it appears only once in the New Testament, its singular use in [[Acts 10:38]] profoundly defines the ministry of Jesus Christ. It portrays Him as divinely anointed to go about actively "doing good" by healing the oppressed, thereby demonstrating God's inherent and active beneficence. This word underscores the practical, tangible nature of divine love and power, directly confronting and reversing the effects of evil. For believers, euergetéō serves as a powerful reminder of Christ's example and the call to embody God's active goodness in the world through concrete, benevolent deeds.
TRV