### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb χρηστεύομαι (chrēsteúomai, `{{G5541}}`) is derived from the adjective χρηστός (chrēstos, `{{G5543}}`), which signifies "useful," "good," "kind," or "benevolent." In its verbal form, χρηστεύομαι means "to show oneself useful," or more profoundly, "to act benevolently." The middle voice construction is significant, indicating that the subject performs the action for or with a particular involvement of their own, emphasizing a deliberate and active manifestation of kindness. It is not merely a passive state of being good, but an intentional, outward-directed exertion of goodness and helpfulness towards others. This word captures the essence of practical, active beneficence, moving beyond mere absence of malice to a positive, contributing disposition.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Remarkably, χρηστεύομαι (chrēsteúomai, `{{G5541}}`) appears only once in the entire New Testament, specifically in [[1 Corinthians 13:4]]. In this pivotal passage, within the apostle Paul's profound discourse on *agape* (divine love), it is stated: "Love suffers long and is kind" (ἡ ἀγάπη μακροθυμεῖ, χρηστεύεται).
Here, χρηστεύομαι stands alongside μακροθυμέω (makrothymeō, `{{G3114}}`, "to suffer long, be patient") as a fundamental characteristic of *agape*. While "suffering long" speaks to love's endurance and forbearance in the face of provocation, "being kind" (χρηστεύεται) describes love's active and positive engagement. It signifies that love does not merely tolerate or refrain from harm, but actively seeks to do good, to be helpful, and to demonstrate benevolence to its object. This single occurrence powerfully defines Christian love not as a passive sentiment but as a dynamic, outward-flowing virtue that expresses itself in practical, beneficial acts. It is the active goodness that flows from a heart filled with *agape*.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field surrounding χρηστεύομαι is rich and interconnected:
* **χρηστός (chrēstos, `{{G5543}}`):** This is the root adjective from which the verb is derived, meaning "good," "useful," "pleasant," or "kind." The verb χρηστεύομαι is the active demonstration of the quality of being χρηστός.
* **χρηστότης (chrēstotēs, `{{G5544}}`):** The noun form, meaning "goodness" or "kindness." This noun frequently describes God's character (e.g., [[Romans 2:4]], [[Ephesians 2:7]], [[Titus 3:4]]) and is listed as a fruit of the Spirit ([[Galatians 5:22]]). The verb χρηστεύομαι is the act of putting χρηστότης into practice.
* **ἀγαπάω (agapaō, `{{G25}}`):** "To love." As seen in [[1 Corinthians 13:4]], χρηστεύομαι is a defining characteristic and active expression of ἀγάπη. It shows that divine love is inherently benevolent and actively seeks the welfare of others.
* **μακροθυμέω (makrothymeō, `{{G3114}}`):** "To be patient, long-suffering." Paired with χρηστεύομαι in [[1 Corinthians 13:4]], these two virtues complement each other. Patience endures adversity without retaliating, while kindness actively extends good.
* **Beneficence and Benevolence:** These English terms closely align with the active, positive nature of χρηστεύομαι, emphasizing the doing of good to others.
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of χρηστεύομαι in [[1 Corinthians 13:4]] carries profound theological weight.
1. **Divine Character Reflected:** While the verb directly describes human love in this context, the underlying quality of χρηστότης (kindness/goodness) is a core attribute of God ([[Romans 2:4]]). Therefore, when believers χρηστεύομαι, they are actively reflecting the very nature and character of God. This active kindness is an outflow of divine grace.
2. **Agape in Action:** The word underscores that *agape* is not merely an abstract concept or a passive emotion, but a dynamic, practical, and outward-directed force. It is love expressed through tangible acts of goodness and helpfulness. It moves beyond mere sentiment to concrete, beneficial engagement with others.
3. **Ethical Imperative for Believers:** As a characteristic of Christ-like love, χρηστεύομαι serves as a powerful ethical imperative for believers. It calls them to actively seek the well-being of others, to be useful, and to demonstrate practical goodness in their daily interactions, especially within the community of faith and towards those outside. It challenges believers to move from passive goodwill to active beneficence.
4. **Counter-Cultural Virtue:** In a world often marked by self-interest, competition, and indifference, the active kindness implied by χρηστεύομαι stands as a counter-cultural virtue, demonstrating the transformative power of the Gospel.
### Summary
χρηστεύομαι (chrēsteúomai, `{{G5541}}`) is a potent Greek verb signifying active, benevolent kindness. Derived from the concept of being "useful" or "good," its middle voice emphasizes a deliberate and personal engagement in doing good to others. Though appearing only once in the New Testament, in [[1 Corinthians 13:4]], it profoundly defines a critical characteristic of *agape* (divine love): "Love suffers long and is kind." This singular usage highlights that Christian love is not passive endurance but a proactive, outward-flowing beneficence. It connects directly to the divine attribute of χρηστότης (kindness/goodness) and serves as a vital call for believers to actively embody God's character through practical acts of helpfulness and goodness towards all.
TRV