Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context: The term "men-pleasers" refers to individuals who act with the primary intention of gaining favor or approval from other people rather than from God. This concept is addressed in the Bible, particularly in the context of Christian conduct and the motivations behind one's actions. The term is often associated with hypocrisy and a lack of genuine faithfulness to God's commands. Biblical References: The Apostle Paul addresses the issue of being a "men-pleaser" in several of his epistles. In Ephesians 6:5-6 , Paul instructs, "Slaves, obey your earthly masters with respect and fear and sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ. And do this not only to please them while they are watching, but as servants of Christ, doing the will of God from your heart." Here, Paul emphasizes the importance of sincerity and integrity, urging believers to serve with genuine devotion to God rather than merely seeking to impress human overseers. Similarly, in Colossians 3:22 , Paul writes, "Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything, not only to please them while they are watching, but with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord." This passage reinforces the idea that one's actions should be motivated by a desire to honor God, rather than simply to gain human approval. In Galatians 1:10 , Paul makes a strong statement about his own motivations: "Am I now seeking the approval of men, or of God? Or am I striving to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ." This verse highlights the incompatibility of seeking human approval with true servitude to Christ. Paul underscores that a genuine follower of Christ prioritizes God's approval above all else. Theological Implications: The concept of being a "men-pleaser" is closely tied to the broader biblical theme of integrity and authenticity in one's faith. The Bible consistently calls believers to live in a manner that reflects their commitment to God, rather than conforming to the expectations or desires of others. This is seen as a fundamental aspect of Christian discipleship, where the believer's ultimate allegiance is to God. The danger of being a "men-pleaser" lies in the potential for compromised values and a diluted witness. When individuals prioritize human approval, they may be tempted to alter their beliefs or behaviors to fit societal norms or to avoid conflict. This can lead to a form of hypocrisy, where outward actions do not align with inner convictions. Practical Application: For Christians, the call to avoid being a "men-pleaser" is a call to examine one's motivations and to ensure that their actions are rooted in a desire to honor God. This involves cultivating a heart of sincerity and integrity, where one's public and private lives are consistent with their professed faith. Believers are encouraged to seek God's guidance and strength in living out their faith authentically, even when it may lead to opposition or misunderstanding from others. By focusing on God's approval, Christians can find the courage to stand firm in their convictions and to be true witnesses of the Gospel in all areas of life. Greek 441. anthropareskos -- man-pleasing ... Word Origin from anthropos and areskos (pleasing) Definition man-pleasing NASB Word Usage men-pleasers (1), please men (1), those who...please men (1). fawning. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/441.htm - 6k Library Colossians iii. 18-25 Ephesians vi. 8-May Disobedience Causeth God's Name to be Blasphemed. Of Loving Our Enemies. God's Name not to be Blasphemed. Petty Dishonesty. Christ and his Table-Companions "And when the Hour was Come, He ... Women as Well as Men, Slaves as Well as Freemen, Candidates for ... Some Scriptures for Daily Practise. The Christian Home Thesaurus Menpleasers (2 Occurrences)...Menpleasers (2 Occurrences). Ephesians 6:6 Not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart; (KJV). ... /m/menpleasers.htm - 7k Men-pleasers (2 Occurrences) Eyeservice (2 Occurrences) Pleasers (2 Occurrences) Win (27 Occurrences) Bondmen (117 Occurrences) Please (324 Occurrences) Favor (184 Occurrences) Service (317 Occurrences) Fearing (107 Occurrences) Resources How can I stop being a people-pleaser? | GotQuestions.orgIs “the road to hell is paved with good intentions” a true statement? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about popularity / wanting to be popular? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Men-pleasers (2 Occurrences)Ephesians 6:6 Colossians 3:22 Subtopics Related Terms Unchangeableness (1 Occurrence) |