Journal: Tyndale Bulletin
Volume: TYNBUL 70:2 (NA 2019)
Article: Negotiating Hostility Through Beneficial Deeds
Author: Sean du Toit

TynBull 70:2 (2019) p. 221

Negotiating Hostility Through Beneficial Deeds

Sean du Toit

([email protected])

Summary

In this article we have surveyed the concept of ἀγαθοποιέω. It has been argued that this refers to various kinds of beneficial deeds, either for a community or individuals. At times the purpose of these good works is to neutralise hostility and convert an enemy into a friend. This strategy of benefiting an enemy is seen in both Graeco-Roman, Jewish, and early Christian writings. This provides an important context within which to understand and interpret 1 Peter. Contrary to Travis Williams’ proposal, good works are not to be understood as exclusively Jewish and Christian practices that were used to subvert hegemonic power structures within the Graeco-Roman world. Rather, in keeping with the educational concerns of early Christianity, what we see in 1 Peter is an effort to communicate clearly to a Gentile audience using familiar topoi. The purpose of benefitting others, including outsiders, is to provide an opportunity to allay pagan concerns that these Christians were a dangerous community. Peter’s strategy is that by demonstrating that Christians were people who benefit others, the hope is that this will both alleviate ignorance and provide an opportunity for ethical witness.

1. Introduction

The concept of ἀγαθοποιέω (and cognates) is significant in 1 Peter (2:12, 14, 15, 20; 3:6, 11, 13, 17; 4:19). In what follows we seek to argue that Peter has employed this concept as a key element in his strategy for how the audience should negotiate life in the Graeco-Roman world. The consensus of earlier scholarship has been that references to ‘good

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works’ refer to a variety of activities that were commended by Graeco-Roman standards.1 However, Williams notes that the consensus view has not provided a clear proposal regarding how good works can alleviate the hostility faced by the audience. In his view, there is therefore a disconnection between problem and solution.2 I wish to address this problem and propose that ‘good works’ were seen as a solution to social hostilit...