[Greek] ποιητής (poiētēs), [Latin] poeta, [Latin] factor: maker, doer, producer, performer, artist, poet, author, poet; Rom. 2:13, Jas.1:22-25, Jas.4:11, Act 17:28
Background Information:
Greek Hellenism: This term means maker, begetter, inventor, composer, author, poet, workman. Xenophon’s Cyropaedia 11.638 states “You yourself must also be an inventor of strategems against the enemy, just as musicians render compositions.” Plato’s Republic 10.597d states “It seems we shall call him its true and natural begetter.” Plato’s Timaus 28c states “Now to discover the Maker and Father of heaven of this universe were a task indeed.”
Ancient Greeks: The ancient Greeks had no word corresponding to “to create” or “creator.” The Greek verb poieo meaning “to make” sufficed. This term applied only to poetry. In a sense, the poet was a creator. The poet brought a creation to the world. This was in contrast to art, which already had existing rules and laws.
Ancient Romans: These Greek concepts were partly shaken. Poets and other artists now are seen as creators. The Romans had a term for creating, “creation” and “creator.” The classical Greeks had not yet applied inspiration and imagination to the other arts.
Old Testament: This term, used extensively, refers to the work of God’s hand in creation. God’s works are created. This term is not used for creator.
New Testament: This term means poets and doers. A poet creates and composes a poem. Those who hear and observe (act on) the law and Word in the sight of God will be justified. In contrast, a hearer who does not act deludes himself.
Scripture:
“For it is not those who hear the law who are just in the sight of God; rather, those who observe the law will be justified.” Rom. 2:13
It is not enough to hear the law. One needs to take an action. One needs to follow the law.
“As even some of your poets have said, ‘For we too are his offspring.’” Act 17:28
These persons, who produce literary texts, are poets, writers, and authors.
Conclusion:
Poet, poem, poetry, factor
It is interesting that the ancient Greeks elevated the creative aspects of poetry. Poetry still can be considered as a very creative form of literature. James points out that faith without works is essentially dead. One must act upon one’s faith.