### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb kalopoiéō (`{{G2569}}`) is a compound word derived from kalos (`{{G2570}}`), meaning "good," "beautiful," or "excellent," and poieō (`{{G4160}}`), meaning "to do" or "to make." Literally, it signifies "to do good" or "to make good." The base definition provided, "to do well, i.e. live virtuously," accurately captures its ethical and moral dimension. It implies an intentional and consistent engagement in actions that are inherently good, noble, and morally upright. Unlike a passive state of being good, kalopoiéō emphasizes the active performance of goodness, reflecting an inner disposition through outward conduct. Its semantic range thus encompasses not merely the absence of evil, but the positive and diligent pursuit of virtue.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term kalopoiéō (`{{G2569}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in [[2 Thessalonians 3:13]]. Despite its singular occurrence, its placement within Paul's final instructions to the Thessalonian believers imbues it with significant weight. The full verse reads: "As for you, brothers, do not grow weary in doing good." (ESV).
The immediate context of [[2 Thessalonians 3:6-12]] addresses the issue of idleness and disorderly conduct among some members of the community. Paul sternly warns against those who are "idle, not busy at work, but busybodies" ([[2 Thessalonians 3:11]]). In stark contrast to such disruptive behavior, Paul exhorts the faithful to "not grow weary in doing good." This command serves as a direct antidote to spiritual lethargy and moral laxity. It encourages active, diligent, and positive engagement in righteous living, even when faced with the negative examples or challenges posed by others. The imperative to "not grow weary" (μὴ ἐκκακήσητε) underscores the need for perseverance and steadfastness in virtuous conduct, implying that "doing good" is not always easy and requires sustained effort.
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of kalopoiéō (`{{G2569}}`) is enriched by examining its constituent parts and related concepts.
* **kalos (`{{G2570}}`):** This root word denotes not just moral goodness, but also that which is intrinsically beautiful, excellent, or noble. It often carries the sense of what is "fit" or "proper."
* **poieō (`{{G4160}}`):** This verb signifies active doing, making, or performing. Its combination with kalos stresses the active, volitional aspect of virtuous living.
* **agathos (`{{G18}}`):** While kalos often emphasizes the aesthetic or noble quality of good, agathos typically refers to what is inherently good or beneficial in a more general sense. Both terms contribute to the New Testament's understanding of "good."
* **kakopoieō (`{{G2556}}`):** This antonym, meaning "to do evil," highlights the stark contrast between righteous and unrighteous actions, emphasizing the volitional choice inherent in kalopoiéō.
* **"Good Works":** The concept of kalopoiéō is intimately linked to the broader New Testament emphasis on "good works" (ἔργα ἀγαθά or ἔργα καλά), which are seen as the natural outflow of genuine faith ([[Ephesians 2:10]], [[Titus 2:7]], [[1 Peter 2:12]]). This includes acts of charity, justice, and general upright conduct.
* **Perseverance:** The accompanying phrase "do not grow weary" connects kalopoiéō to the virtue of perseverance (ὑπομονή), a recurring theme in Paul's epistles, essential for enduring the Christian life.
### Theological Significance
Despite its solitary appearance, kalopoiéō (`{{G2569}}`) carries profound theological weight within the Pauline corpus. It encapsulates the active and ethical dimension of Christian discipleship.
1. **Active Faith:** The command to "do good" underscores that Christian faith is not merely a belief system or an internal disposition, but a dynamic and active way of life. True faith expresses itself through tangible acts of righteousness and virtue.
2. **Antidote to Idleness:** In the context of [[2 Thessalonians 3]], kalopoiéō stands as a divine imperative against spiritual and practical idleness. It calls believers to purposeful engagement in activities that honor God and benefit others, contrasting sharply with those who are "busybodies" but not productive.
3. **Perseverance in Virtue:** The exhortation "do not grow weary" highlights that living virtuously is not always easy and often requires sustained effort and resilience. It acknowledges the potential for discouragement or fatigue in the face of challenges or negative influences, and thus calls for steadfastness in doing what is right.
4. **Holistic Discipleship:** kalopoiéō speaks to the holistic nature of Christian discipleship, where belief informs behavior, and internal transformation manifests in external actions. It is a call to a life consistently marked by moral excellence, reflecting the character of Christ.
### Summary
The Greek verb kalopoiéō (`{{G2569}}`), meaning "to do good" or "to live virtuously," is a powerful compound of kalos (good, excellent) and poieō (to do). Though it appears only once in the New Testament, in [[2 Thessalonians 3:13]], its significance is profound. In this crucial passage, Paul exhorts believers to "not grow weary in doing good," setting it in direct contrast to idleness and disorderly conduct. This command underscores the active and persevering nature of Christian faith, emphasizing that genuine belief manifests in consistent, intentional, and morally upright actions. kalopoiéō thus serves as a concise yet potent reminder of the call to diligent, virtuous living, reflecting an active commitment to God's will and the well-being of others.
TRV