The Greek word apódektos, represented by G587, means accepted or agreeable. It appears only 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. Derived from ἀποδέχομαι, it is used to describe what is pleasing or viewed favorably, specifically in the sight of God.
In its biblical usage, G587 consistently appears alongside the word "good" to define what pleases God. In 1 Timothy 2:3, it is stated, "this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour". Later, in 1 Timothy 5:4, the act of children learning to show piety and care for their parents is also described as "good and acceptable before God". In both instances, the term defines a standard of approval that is based on God's perspective.
Several related words help clarify the meaning of what is considered acceptable:
- G2570 kalós (good): This word is paired with apódektos in both of its occurrences, signifying that which is valuable or virtuous. The direct link shows that what is morally good is what is acceptable to God (1 Timothy 2:3, 1 Timothy 5:4).
- G2151 eusebéō (to be pious, i.e. (towards God) to worship, or (towards parents) to respect (support)): This action of showing piety is explicitly defined as something that is "acceptable" before God, connecting practical family duty to an act of worship 1 Timothy 5:4.
- G2316 theós (a deity, especially... the supreme Divinity): God is the one to whom something is acceptable. Both uses of G587 are qualified by the phrases "before God" or "in the sight of God," making Him the ultimate judge of what is agreeable (1 Timothy 2:3, 1 Timothy 5:4).
- G4990 sōtḗr (a deliverer, i.e. God or Christ): The quality of being acceptable is linked to the nature of God as our Saviour. This indicates that what pleases God is aligned with His redemptive character and plan 1 Timothy 2:3.
The theological weight of G587 emphasizes a divine standard for approval.
- Practical Righteousness: The term connects abstract divine pleasure to concrete, tangible actions. The act of showing piety to one's family is elevated from a mere social custom to a spiritually acceptable practice 1 Timothy 5:4.
- Divine Standard: Apódektos establishes that the measure of what is truly "good" and pleasing is determined by God's own view, not human standards.
- Connection to God's Nature: By linking what is acceptable to "God our Saviour" 1 Timothy 2:3, the term frames pleasing actions within the context of God's saving work.
In summary, G587 is a concise term that defines the standard of divine approval. While rare, it carries significant meaning by teaching that what is good G2570 and enacted through piety G2151 is ultimately what is acceptable in the sight of God G2316 our Saviour G4990. It demonstrates how everyday conduct can be an act of worship that is agreeable to God.
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