King James Version
What Does 2 Timothy 4:14 Mean?
“Alexander the coppersmith did me much evil: the Lord reward him according to his works:”
Context
12
And Tychicus have I sent to Ephesus.
13
The cloke that I left at Troas with Carpus, when thou comest, bring with thee, and the books, but especially the parchments.
14
Alexander the coppersmith did me much evil: the Lord reward him according to his works:
15
Of whom be thou ware also; for he hath greatly withstood our words. our words: or, our preachings
16
At my first answer no man stood with me, but all men forsook me: I pray God that it may not be laid to their charge.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(14) **Alexander the coppersmith did me much evil.**—Most probably, the same Alexander, mentioned in the First Epistle (1Timothy 1:20) “as delivered to Satan,” and not improbably identical with the Alexander “the Jew” put forward by the Jews in the Ephesian tumult. (Acts 19:33-34).
It has been suggested that this Alexander, an influential Ephesian Jew, had done much injury to the cause of the Christians generally, and to St. Paul personally, with the imperial authorities at Rome.
**The Lord reward him according to his works.**—The older authorities read, “shall reward him . . .” The works referred to were the bitter injuries he had done to the cause of Christ, rather than to the Apostle himself.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of 2 Timothy. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
2 Timothy 4:14 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to 2 Timothy 4:14
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge