The Greek noun euergetes (εὐεργέτης) means benefactor, doer of good, one who confers benefits. Combining eu (good) and ergon (work, deed), it was a formal honorific title given by Hellenistic rulers and the Roman imperial system to powerful patrons — emperors and kings who dispensed wealth and favors were publicly honored as euergetai. The title carried enormous social prestige.
Jesus uses euergetes once — and subversively. In Luke 22:25, as the disciples argue about who is greatest, Jesus notes that the kings of the Gentiles lord it over their subjects and are called euergetes. But: "Not so with you. Rather, let the greatest among you become as the youngest, and the leader as one who serves." The irony is sharp — the actual benefactor in the room is Jesus, who gives His life for them. The world's honor system exalts those who use power to distribute benefits; the Kingdom exalts those who empty themselves. True benefaction is cruciform.