### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **arestós**, represented by `{{G701}}`, means **agreeable** or by implication, **fit**. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. The term is used to describe actions or decisions that are considered **pleasing** or constitute sound **reason**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G701}}` defines what is acceptable in different contexts. It is used to describe what is **pleasing** in God's sight, which comes from keeping His commandments [[1 John 3:22]]. Jesus provides the ultimate example, stating that He always does those things that **please** the Father [[John 8:29]]. The word is also used in a human context, where Herod's persecution of the church **pleased** the Jews [[Acts 12:3]]. In a practical sense, the apostles determined it was not **reason** (fit or agreeable) for them to abandon preaching the word of God to serve tables [[Acts 6:2]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for what is considered agreeable or fit:
* `{{G4160}}` **poiéō** (to make or do): This word is directly tied to the action of doing things that are pleasing to God, as seen in both Jesus's example [[John 8:29]] and the believer's responsibility [[1 John 3:22]].
* `{{G1785}}` **entolḗ** (commandment): This term clarifies how one performs actions that are pleasing. Keeping God's commandments is a direct path to doing what is agreeable in His sight [[1 John 3:22]].
* `{{G1247}}` **diakonéō** (to serve): This word highlights the concept of fitness for a specific role. The apostles concluded it was not reasonable `{{G701}}` for them to leave their primary calling to **serve** tables [[Acts 6:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G701}}` is demonstrated in its connection between action and approval.
* **Divine Pleasure:** The word establishes a direct link between a believer's actions and what is **pleasing** to God. Obedience, specifically keeping His commandments `{{G1785}}`, results in doing things that are pleasing `{{G701}}` in His sight [[1 John 3:22]].
* **Christ as the Standard:** Jesus embodies the perfect fulfillment of this principle, stating, "I{G1473} do{G4160} always{G3842} those things that please{G701} him{G846}" [[John 8:29]]. His life is the model for what is truly agreeable to the Father.
* **Wisdom in Service:** In Acts, the word is used to express sound judgment or **reason**. The apostles determined it was not fit `{{G701}}` for them to neglect the word of God `{{G3056}}` in order to serve `{{G1247}}` tables, establishing a principle of prioritizing spiritual duties [[Acts 6:2]].
### Summary
In summary, **arestós** `{{G701}}` is a term that encompasses what is agreeable, fit, or reasonable. It is used to define the standard of pleasing God through obedience, a standard perfectly met by Christ [[John 8:29]]. It also applies to human-centered approval [[Acts 12:3]] and the practical wisdom of making decisions that are fit for one's calling [[Acts 6:2]]. The word connects right action to divine pleasure and sound reason.
TRV