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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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