### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **chrēstótēs**, represented by `{{G5544}}`, means usefulness, moral excellence, gentleness, goodness, or kindness. It appears **10 times** across **8 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from `{{G5543}}`, it denotes a goodness that is not only excellent in character but also beneficial and useful in its action toward others.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G5544}}` is used to describe both the character of God and the character required of believers. It is listed as one of the fruits of the Spirit, translated as **gentleness** [[Galatians 5:22]]. It is a core attribute of God, whose **goodness** is intended to lead people to repentance [[Romans 2:4]]. This divine **kindness** is displayed in salvation through Christ Jesus [[Ephesians 2:7]]. Believers are instructed to put on **kindness** as part of their new nature as God's elect [[Colossians 3:12]]. In a statement on humanity's fallen state, Paul uses the word to declare that "there is none that doeth **good**, no, not one" [[Romans 3:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G5544}}`:
* `{{G5543}}` **chrēstós** (goodness): As the root word, it signifies that which is useful or kind. It is used in parallel with `{{G5544}}` to describe the **goodness** of God that leads to repentance [[Romans 2:4]].
* `{{G19}}` **agathōsýnē** (goodness): This word, meaning virtue or beneficence, appears alongside `{{G5544}}` in the list of the fruit of the Spirit, highlighting an active, virtuous goodness [[Galatians 5:22]].
* `{{G3115}}` **makrothymía** (longsuffering): This term for forbearance or patience is frequently paired with `{{G5544}}`, indicating that true kindness is often expressed through patient endurance with others ([[Galatians 5:22]], [[Colossians 3:12]]).
* `{{G5363}}` **philanthrōpía** (love towards man): In Titus, God's **kindness** `{{G5544}}` is directly linked with His **love toward man**, showing that this kindness is an expression of His benevolent nature toward humanity [[Titus 3:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5544}}` is significant, particularly in the context of salvation and sanctification.
* **Divine Kindness and Salvation:** The word is central to understanding God's saving character. It is His **kindness** and **love** that appeared in Christ to save humanity [[Titus 3:4]]. This is not a passive quality but an active, redemptive attribute that God displays toward us [[Ephesians 2:7]].
* **A Mark of the Believer's Character:** As a fruit of the Spirit, **gentleness** `{{G5544}}` is an essential evidence of the Holy Spirit's work in a Christian's life [[Galatians 5:22]]. It is a virtue that believers are commanded to "put on," reflecting the character of the God who called them [[Colossians 3:12]].
* **A Contrast to Fallen Humanity:** The use of `{{G5544}}` in [[Romans 3:12]] establishes a universal baseline: apart from God, no one is inherently good or useful in a spiritual sense. This underscores the necessity of God's **goodness** for salvation, which is received, not achieved.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5544}}` defines a form of goodness that is both morally excellent and actively useful. It is a foundational characteristic of God, demonstrated most profoundly in His plan of salvation through Christ. For the believer, it is not merely an ethical goal but a supernatural fruit of the Spirit and a defining mark of a life transformed by God's own kindness.
TRV