Chrēsimos means useful, serviceable, or beneficial—that which serves a good purpose. Paul uses it in his instruction to Timothy about foolish controversies: avoid them, he says, 'for they are unprofitable and worthless,' implying by contrast that Timothy should pursue what is useful for building up the church. The word appears only once in the New Testament, but it echoes a practical concern throughout Paul's letters: ministry should be useful, edifying, constructive, not wasted on pointless disputes. The criterion is utility for the gospel and the church's growth.