Book of 2 Timothy - Chapter 4 - Verse 14
Meaning
In this verse, the apostle Paul mentions a man named Alexander the coppersmith who had caused him much harm and opposition. The phrase "the Lord reward him according to his works" is a reflection of Paul's belief in divine justice. Paul is expressing his trust in God to ultimately judge and deal with Alexander according to the actions he has taken. This verse serves as a reminder of the biblical principle that God sees and knows all things, including the deeds of individuals. It also highlights the importance of leaving justice in the hands of God rather than seeking revenge or retaliation. By handing over the situation to the Lord, believers are encouraged to find peace and trust in His ultimate righteousness and fairness.
Theological Overview
Some theologians interpret the mention of Alexander the coppersmith in this verse as a specific individual who caused trouble for the Apostle Paul. They see this as an example of someone who deliberately opposed Paul's work, possibly undermining the spread of the gospel. The phrase "the Lord reward him according to his works" highlights the belief in divine justice, where each person will ultimately be held accountable for their actions. This verse is often used as a reminder that God sees and knows everything, and justice will be served in the end. Some word studies suggest that "coppersmith" could symbolize someone who uses cunning or deceitful means to harm others, linking back to the idea of Alexander causing trouble for Paul through malicious actions. Overall, this verse serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of going against God's will and the assurance that justice will prevail in due time.