from ποιέω; a performer; specially, a "poet"; --doer, poet.
Transliteration:poiētḗs
Pronunciation:poy-ay-tace'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term ποιητής (G4163) is derived from the verb ποιέω (G4160), meaning "to do," "to make," "to create," or "to perform." Consequently, ποιητής fundamentally denotes "one who does," "one who makes," or "a performer." Its semantic range extends to encompass any individual who actively brings something into being or carries out an action. A specialized nuance of this word is "poet," referring to one who "makes" or "composes" poetry. This dual meaning highlights the core idea of an active agent, whether in the realm of practical action or creative composition. The emphasis is consistently on the execution or realization of an act or idea.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The occurrences of ποιητής in the New Testament reveal its primary theological significance as "doer" rather than "poet," with one notable exception.
The most prominent usage is found in the Epistle of James, where the term appears four times:
* In [[James 1:22]], believers are exhorted to "be doers of the word, and not hearers only." This sets the foundational contrast between passive reception and active obedience.
* [[James 1:23]] and [[James 1:25]] further elaborate on this, describing the one who merely hears the word without doing it as deceiving himself, while the "doer of the work" (referring to the perfect law of liberty) will be blessed in his doing. The context underscores that true faith is evidenced by practical obedience and the application of divine truth in one's life.
* [[James 4:11]] uses ποιητής in the negative, warning against speaking evil of a brother, which is equated with speaking evil of the law and judging it, thereby failing to be a "doer of the law." Here, the term reinforces the concept of upholding and living by God's commands.
In the Epistle to the Romans, ποιητής appears once:
* [[Romans 2:13]] states, "For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law will be justified." This verse, within Paul's discourse on God's righteous judgment, emphasizes that it is not mere intellectual assent or knowledge of the law that brings righteousness, but active adherence to its precepts. While Paul will later elaborate on justification by faith, this verse highlights the divine expectation of obedience, which is a natural outflow of a transformed heart.
The singular instance where ποιητής refers to "poet" is in the book of Acts:
* In [[Acts 17:28]], during Paul's address at the Areopagus in Athens, he quotes from Greek "poets" (plural, ποιηταί), saying, "For in him we live and move and have our being; as even some of your own poets have said, 'For we are also his offspring.'" This demonstrates Paul's familiarity with pagan literature and his willingness to use common ground, even from non-biblical sources, to articulate spiritual truths and point to the one true God.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct linguistic relative of ποιητής is the verb ποιέω (G4160), its root. Understanding ποιέω as "to do," "to make," or "to create" is essential for grasping the active nature of ποιητής. Other related concepts and words include:
* ἔργον (G2041): "work," "deed," "action." This noun often represents the *result* or *manifestation* of what a ποιητής does. The "doer" produces "works."
* πρᾶξις (G4234): "practice," "deed," "action." Similar to ἔργον, emphasizing the practical outworking of belief.
* ἀκούω (G191): "to hear." This verb stands in direct contrast to ποιέω and ποιητής in the admonitions of James and Romans, highlighting the difference between passive reception and active obedience.
* Concepts of obedience, law, righteousness, and justification are intrinsically linked to the "doer" aspect of ποιητής, particularly in the theological arguments of James and Paul.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of ποιητής is profound, primarily revolving around the imperative of active faith and obedience.
1. **The Nature of True Faith:** In James, ποιητής underscores that genuine faith is not merely intellectual assent or a passive hearing of God's word, but an active, transformative force that results in obedience. It challenges the notion of a faith that exists without corresponding deeds, asserting that such faith is "dead" ([[James 2:17]]). The "doer" is the one whose life reflects the truth they profess.
2. **Righteousness and Justification:** Romans 2:13, by declaring that "the doers of the law will be justified," points to the divine standard of righteousness. While Paul meticulously explains that justification comes through faith in Christ, this verse highlights that true justification is not merely a declaration but also involves a transformed life that strives to fulfill God's righteous requirements. It anticipates the concept that genuine faith is never barren but always produces the fruit of obedience.
3. **Divine Revelation and Human Response:** The use of "poets" in Acts 17:28 is significant. It demonstrates that God's truth can resonate even in non-biblical sources, acknowledging a general revelation accessible to humanity. Paul's engagement with these poets validates the human capacity for articulating profound truths, even if incomplete, and serves as a bridge to proclaim the full gospel. This shows a God who is not confined to human categories and whose truth can be discerned in various ways.
4. **Practical Christianity:** The consistent emphasis on "doing" in the New Testament, particularly with ποιητής, calls believers to a life of practical godliness. It means applying biblical principles to daily living, demonstrating love, exercising self-control, and living out the implications of the gospel.
### Summary
The Greek word ποιητής (G4163) primarily signifies a "doer" or "performer," derived from the verb "to do" or "to make." While it can also denote a "poet," its most significant theological usage in the New Testament emphasizes the necessity of active obedience to God's word. In the Epistles of James and Romans, ποιητής is consistently used to highlight that true faith is not passive hearing but active application and performance of God's commands. This underscores that genuine belief must be demonstrated through concrete deeds and a life transformed by divine truth. In Acts, its use for "poets" illustrates Paul's ability to engage with broader cultural expressions to point toward universal spiritual truths. Ultimately, ποιητής serves as a powerful reminder of the call to a life of practical, obedient faith that bears fruit in action.
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