### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **aréskō**, represented by `{{G700}}`, is a key term for being agreeable or, by implication, seeking to be so. Its base definition is **to please**. It appears 19 times across 16 unique verses, highlighting a consistent biblical theme concerning the object and motivation of one's actions.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G700}}` is frequently used to frame a crucial choice between pleasing God and pleasing people. Paul confronts this directly, asking whether he seeks to **please** men or God, concluding that if he **pleased** men, he could not be a servant of Christ [[Galatians 1:10]]. This idea is reinforced when he states his ministry is not about **pleasing** men but about pleasing God, who tests the heart [[1 Thessalonians 2:4]]. The word also describes the believer's duty to walk in a way that will **please** God [[1 Thessalonians 4:1]]. Conversely, the term can describe worldly approval, such as when Herodias's daughter danced and **pleased** Herod [[Matthew 14:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which one seeks to please:
* `{{G1401}}` **doûlos** (a slave... bond(-man), servant): This term highlights the ultimate allegiance required of a believer. One cannot simultaneously **please** men and be a **servant** of Christ [[Galatians 1:10]].
* `{{G2212}}` **zētéō** (to seek... desire, endeavour): This word is often linked to the intention behind pleasing. Paul asks if he does **seek** to please men [[Galatians 1:10]], and in another context, explains he does not do so by **seeking** his own profit [[1 Corinthians 10:33]].
* `{{G3619}}` **oikodomḗ** (confirmation... building, edify(-ication, -ing)): This shows the proper, selfless application of pleasing others. Believers are to **please** their neighbor for their good, leading to **edification** [[Romans 15:2]].
* `{{G4754}}` **strateúomai** (to serve in a military campaign... to contend): This word illustrates the singular focus required in service. A man who goes to **war** does not entangle himself with civilian affairs, so that he may **please** the one who chose him to be a soldier [[2 Timothy 2:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G700}}` is centered on the believer's primary motivation and allegiance.
* **The Audience of One:** The central conflict presented is whether a person's life is performed for the approval of God or men. Those in the flesh cannot **please** God [[Romans 8:8]], while the goal of the believer is to learn how to walk and to **please** God [[1 Thessalonians 4:1]].
* **Christ's Example of Self-Denial:** The concept is set in direct opposition to self-interest. Christ himself is the premier model, as he "pleased not himself" [[Romans 15:3]]. This establishes a pattern for believers, who are called not to **please** themselves but to bear the infirmities of the weak [[Romans 15:1]].
* **A Tool for Salvation and Edification:** While pleasing men for selfish approval is condemned, pleasing others for their spiritual benefit is commanded. Paul models this by seeking to **please** all people in all things, not for his own gain but so that "they may be saved" [[1 Corinthians 10:33]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G700}}` moves beyond simple agreeableness to address the core of Christian ethics and devotion. It consistently forces a choice between seeking worldly favor and divine approval. By contrasting self-pleasing with the selfless example of Christ, and by repurposing the act of pleasing for the edification and salvation of others, the word **aréskō** defines a foundational aspect of a life lived in service to God rather than to men.
TRV