### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **poiētḗs**, represented by `{{G4163}}`, primarily means **a performer** or **doer**, and is also the source of the word **"poet"**. It appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible. The term carries a significant dual meaning, referring both to one who performs an action and, in a special sense, one who creates through words.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G4163}}` is most frequently used to draw a sharp contrast between passive hearing and active obedience. The book of James repeatedly emphasizes the necessity of being **doers** of the word, not merely **hearers** who deceive themselves [[James 1:22-23]]. This theme is echoed in Romans, where it is stated that the **doers** of the law will be justified, not just the hearers [[Romans 2:13]]. In a distinct context, the word is used in its literal sense in Acts, where Paul references the words of Greek **poets** to connect with his audience in Athens [[Acts 17:28]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the concept of performing or doing:
* `{{G202}}` **akroatḗs** (a hearer): Defined as "a hearer (merely)," this word is consistently placed in direct opposition to a **doer** `{{G4163}}`, highlighting a faith that is passive or intellectual rather than active ([[James 1:23]], [[Romans 2:13]]).
* `{{G4162}}` **poíēsis** (deed): Meaning "action, i.e. performance (of the law)," this term specifies the outcome of being a **doer** `{{G4163}}`. The believer who looks into the law of liberty and acts is promised to be blessed in his **deed** [[James 1:25]].
* `{{G1085}}` **génos** (offspring): This word for "kin" or **offspring** is used in the passage where `{{G4163}}` is translated as **poet**, establishing the common ground that humanity is God's **offspring** [[Acts 17:28]].
* `{{G2923}}` **kritḗs** (judge): This term is contrasted with **doer** `{{G4163}}` to show the improper role of one who **judgeth** the law instead of obeying it, thereby making himself a **judge** rather than a performer of it [[James 4:11]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4163}}` is significant, underscoring the nature of authentic faith.
* **Faith Expressed Through Action:** The primary theological thrust of `{{G4163}}` is its insistence that true faith is validated by works. One cannot merely be a **hearer** `{{G202}}` of the **word** `{{G3056}}` but must be a **doer**, as hearing without action is self-deception [[James 1:22]]. This principle is tied to justification, as it is the **doers** of the **law** `{{G3551}}` who will be **justified** `{{G1344}}` [[Romans 2:13]].
* **Submission to the Law:** The term is used to distinguish a believer's proper role in relation to God's law. A believer is called to be a **doer** of the **law** `{{G3551}}`, not a **judge** `{{G2923}}` of it. To judge the law is to step out of the position of obedience and into a position of authority over it [[James 4:11]].
* **Creative Acknowledgment of God:** The unique use of `{{G4163}}` as **poet** in Acts demonstrates that the source of all life can be acknowledged even through secular creation. Paul uses the words of poets to affirm that humans are God's **offspring** `{{G1085}}`, showing that all people **live** `{{G2198}}`, **move** `{{G2795}}`, and have their being in Him [[Acts 17:28]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4163}}` **poiētḗs** functions as more than a simple descriptor. While it can refer to a **poet** in the literal sense [[Acts 17:28]], its primary role in scripture is to define the nature of true faith. It is a call to action, demanding that hearing be translated into doing. The distinction between being a **hearer** and a **doer** is central to understanding the biblical mandate for a living, obedient faith that is demonstrated through works and submission to God's word and law ([[James 1:22]], [[Romans 2:13]]).
TRV