The Greek word areskeía, represented by G699, is a term for pleasing. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible. Its base definition is "complaisance," and it is derived from a word related to ἀρέσκω.
The single use of G699 is found in Colossians 1:10, where it defines a key objective of the Christian life. The verse outlines a prayer that believers might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing. In this context, pleasing is not a passive feeling but the result of a specific lifestyle, one that is further characterized by being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God. It is the goal toward which a worthy walk is directed.
Several related words from its immediate context clarify the meaning of G699:
- G4043 peripatéō (to live, deport oneself, follow): This word for "walk" frames pleasing as the outcome of one's entire manner of life and conduct Colossians 1:10.
- G516 axíōs (appropriately, worthily): A life that is pleasing to the Lord is one that is lived "worthily," or in a manner that is appropriate for one called by Him Colossians 1:10.
- G2592 karpophoréō (to be fertile, bear fruit): Being fruitful in good works is presented as a direct evidence of a life that is pleasing to God Colossians 1:10.
- G837 auxánō (to grow, increase): This term is used in parallel with being fruitful, showing that a pleasing walk involves continual spiritual growth Colossians 1:10.
- G1922 epígnōsis (full discernment, acknowledgement): The growth that is part of a pleasing life is specified as an increase "in the knowledge of God" Colossians 1:10.
Though rare, the theological weight of G699 is significant as it encapsulates a comprehensive goal for believers.
- A Worthy Walk: The primary purpose of a believer's walk is to be pleasing to the Lord. This connects daily conduct directly to God's approval Colossians 1:10.
- Comprehensive Complaisance: The phrase "unto all pleasing" suggests a total devotion. The use of G3956 pâs ("all") indicates that this pleasing should extend to every area of life.
- Active and Fruitful Faith: A life that is pleasing is defined by tangible outcomes. It is intrinsically linked to "being fruitful in every good work" G2041 and "increasing in the knowledge of God" G2316, demonstrating that pleasing God is an active, growing experience Colossians 1:10.
In summary, G699 is a concise yet powerful term. While appearing only once, it defines the ultimate aim of a Christian's conduct: a life lived "unto all pleasing." It is not merely an attitude but a state achieved through a worthy walk, demonstrated by fruitfulness in good works, and sustained by an ever-increasing knowledge of God.
TRV