The Greek word eucháristos, represented by G2170, is a term for being grateful or thankful. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse, making its single occurrence highly significant. The word is defined as well favored, which by implication means grateful.
The sole use of G2170 is found in Colossians 3:15, where believers are instructed to "be ye thankful". This command is given in the context of letting the peace of God rule in their hearts, as they have been called together in one body. Thankfulness is presented as a direct response to this divine peace and corporate calling.
Several related words from its biblical context illuminate the meaning of G2170:
- G1515 eirḗnē (peace): This term, defined as peace, quietness, or rest, is the state that should rule in the believer's heart. It is described as "the peace of God, which passeth all understanding" Philippians 4:7.
- G2316 theós (God): The source of the peace that prompts thankfulness is God himself. He is the supreme Divinity, and believers are instructed to "seek ye first the kingdom of God" Matthew 6:33.
- G2588 kardía (heart): Defined as the thoughts or feelings, the heart is the figurative center where peace is to rule Colossians 3:15. It is also the place where God promises to write his laws Hebrews 8:10.
- G4983 sōma (body): This word for body is used to describe the unified community of believers, called in "one body" Colossians 3:15. This physical and corporate identity is to be presented to God as "a living sacrifice" Romans 12:1.
The theological weight of G2170 is derived entirely from its singular, powerful context.
- Response to Divine Peace: Thankfulness is not an abstract duty but a direct response to the "peace of God" actively ruling in the believer's heart Colossians 3:15. This peace is a gift that surpasses human understanding Philippians 4:7.
- Expression of Corporate Unity: The call to be thankful is tied to the reality of being "called in one body" Colossians 3:15. Gratitude, therefore, is an outworking of the unity believers share, which is expressed by offering their bodies as a sacrifice to God Romans 12:1.
- The Inner State of the Believer: The command to be thankful is linked to the inner state where peace rules in the heart Colossians 3:15. The heart is the center of a person's being, making thankfulness an internal condition before it is an external action.
In summary, G2170 eucháristos, while rare, is a theologically rich term. Its single appearance in scripture positions gratefulness not as a mere emotion, but as a crucial spiritual discipline. It is the mandated response to experiencing the peace of God within the unified body of believers. This connection between God's peace, the believer's heart, and the corporate body highlights thankfulness as a cornerstone of the Christian life.
TRV