from εὖ and χρηστός; easily used, i.e. useful:--profitable, meet for use.
Transliteration:eúchrēstos
Pronunciation:yoo'-khrays-tos
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adjective εὔχρηστος (eúchrēstos), Strong's `{{G2173}}`, is a compound word derived from εὖ (eu), meaning "well" or "good," and χρηστός (chrēstos), meaning "useful," "good," or "kind." The latter root is related to χράομαι (chraomai), "to use." Thus, εὔχρηστος literally conveys the sense of being "well-used," "readily usable," or "eminently useful." It signifies not merely a general goodness, but a specific suitability and effectiveness for a particular purpose or task. The term implies a high degree of utility, fitness, and profitability, indicating something or someone that is not just adequate, but truly valuable and effective in its function.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term εὔχρηστος appears twice in the New Testament, both times in Paul's second letter to Timothy:
1. **[[2 Timothy 2:21]]**: "Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from these things, he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified, useful to the Master, prepared for every good work."
In this passage, Paul employs the metaphor of household vessels, distinguishing between those "for honor" and "for dishonor." A believer who purifies themselves from ungodliness and foolish disputes (as mentioned in the preceding verses) becomes εὔχρηστος – truly useful – to the Master (Christ). This usefulness is a direct result of sanctification and preparation, making the believer a suitable instrument for God's purposes and "every good work." The context emphasizes spiritual purity and readiness as prerequisites for effective divine service.
2. **[[2 Timothy 4:11]]**: "Only Luke is with me. Get Mark and bring him with you, for he is useful to me for ministry."
Here, Paul gives a personal instruction to Timothy regarding John Mark. The apostle, nearing the end of his life and ministry, requests Mark's presence, specifically stating that Mark is εὔχρηστος to him for ministry. This is a poignant statement, especially considering Mark's earlier departure from Paul and Barnabas during their first missionary journey ([[Acts 13:13]]). The use of εὔχρηστος here indicates Mark's restored value and practical effectiveness in assisting Paul's apostolic work, highlighting a reconciliation and a recognition of his practical skills and dedication.
In both instances, εὔχρηστος underscores the concept of practical utility and fitness for service, whether in the spiritual realm (to the Master) or in the practicalities of ministry (to Paul).
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of εὔχρηστος is enriched by its etymology and its direct antonym:
* **εὖ (eu)**: The prefix "well" or "good" (`{{G2095}}`) signifies a positive quality, often indicating excellence or proficiency.
* **χρηστός (chrēstos)**: Meaning "useful," "good," or "kind" (`{{G5543}}`), this root emphasizes the beneficial nature of something. It is related to χράομαι (chraomai, `{{G5530}}`), "to use," reinforcing the idea of being *fit for use*.
* **ἄχρηστος (achrēstos)**: The direct opposite, meaning "useless" or "unprofitable" (`{{G890}}`). This word appears in [[Philemon 1:11]], where Paul describes Onesimus as formerly ἄχρηστος to Philemon but now εὔχρηστος (though the word εὔχρηστος itself is not used here, the concept of becoming useful is central to the passage's wordplay). This stark contrast highlights the transformative power that can turn someone from being a liability to an asset.
* **σκεῦος (skeuos)**: "Vessel" or "instrument" (`{{G4632}}`), as used in [[2 Timothy 2:21]], directly relates to the concept of being εὔχρηστος. A vessel's value lies in its utility.
* **ἀγαθός (agathos)**: "Good" in a general sense, often morally (`{{G18}}`). While εὔχρηστος implies goodness, it specifies that goodness in terms of practical function.
* **καλός (kalos)**: "Good," "noble," or "beautiful" (`{{G2570}}`). This term often refers to inherent quality or aesthetic appeal, whereas εὔχρηστος focuses on functional quality.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of εὔχρηστος is profound, particularly in the context of Christian discipleship and service:
1. **Sanctification for Service**: In [[2 Timothy 2:21]], εὔχρηστος is inextricably linked to cleansing and sanctification. This teaches that spiritual purity is not an end in itself, but a means to an end: becoming a valuable instrument in the Master's hands. God desires His people to be set apart, not merely for their own holiness, but so they can effectively participate in His redemptive purposes. This underscores the practical outcome of spiritual discipline and separation from sin.
2. **Divine Purpose and Utility**: The concept implies that every believer has the potential to be useful to God. This usefulness is not based on human strength or inherent merit, but on availability and willingness to be purified and prepared by the Master. It affirms that God has a purpose for each individual in His Kingdom, and He equips those who yield to Him to fulfill that purpose.
3. **Redemption and Restoration in Ministry**: The reference to Mark in [[2 Timothy 4:11]] offers a powerful illustration of grace and restoration. Mark, who once faltered, became εὔχρηστος again to Paul. This demonstrates God's capacity to restore individuals to usefulness in ministry, even after past failures. It encourages forgiveness, second chances, and the recognition of renewed potential within the body of Christ. It highlights that usefulness in God's service is not static but can be developed and restored through growth and reconciliation.
4. **Practicality of Faith**: εὔχρηστος moves beyond abstract theological concepts to emphasize the practical, tangible contribution of believers. Faith is not merely a belief system but a call to active service, where individuals become effective tools for the advancement of God's kingdom.
### Summary
εὔχρηστος (`{{G2173}}`) signifies being "eminently useful" or "fit for purpose." This Greek adjective appears twice in the New Testament, both in 2 Timothy. In [[2 Timothy 2:21]], it describes a believer who, through cleansing and sanctification, becomes a valuable "vessel for honor," prepared for the Master's service. In [[2 Timothy 4:11]], it highlights the practical utility of John Mark to Paul for ministry, demonstrating restoration and renewed effectiveness. The word contrasts sharply with ἄχρηστος (`{{G890}}`, "useless"). Theologically, εὔχρηστος underscores the divine desire for believers to be purified and available, thus becoming valuable instruments for God's redemptive work, emphasizing both spiritual readiness and practical contribution in the service of Christ and His church.
TRV