2 Timothy 4:8 Study Bible: From now on, there is stored up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will give to me on that day; and not to me only, but also to all those who have loved his appearing.

◄ 2 Timothy 4:8 ►

From now on there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day--and not only to me, but to all who crave His appearing.

Study Bible

From now on
This phrase signifies a transition, indicating a shift from the present struggles to a future hope. In the Greek, "λοιπόν" (loipon) suggests a remaining time or future expectation. Paul is expressing a confident assurance that his earthly journey is nearing completion, and he is looking forward to what lies ahead. This reflects a deep trust in God's promises and a forward-looking faith that is central to the Christian life.

there is laid up
The Greek word "ἀπόκειται" (apokeitai) implies something that is reserved or stored away. This conveys the idea of a secure and certain future reward. In the ancient world, treasures were often stored in safe places, and Paul uses this imagery to assure believers that their heavenly reward is secure, awaiting them in God's perfect timing.

for me
Paul personalizes this promise, emphasizing the intimate relationship between the believer and God. It highlights the individual nature of salvation and reward, reminding us that God knows each of us personally and has a specific plan and purpose for our lives.

the crown of righteousness
The "crown" (Greek: "στέφανος," stephanos) was a symbol of victory and honor, often awarded to athletes or victorious soldiers. In a spiritual sense, it represents the ultimate reward for a life lived in faithfulness to Christ. "Righteousness" (Greek: "δικαιοσύνης," dikaiosynēs) refers to the state of being right with God, achieved through faith in Jesus Christ. This crown is not earned by human effort but is a gift of grace, symbolizing the believer's eternal reward for living a life aligned with God's will.

which the Lord
The term "Lord" (Greek: "Κύριος," Kyrios) denotes authority and divinity. It is a title of respect and reverence, acknowledging Jesus Christ as the sovereign ruler and ultimate authority. This reminds believers that their reward comes from the highest authority, ensuring its legitimacy and value.

the righteous Judge
This phrase underscores God's perfect justice. The Greek word for "judge" (κριτής, kritēs) indicates one who makes decisions or passes judgment. As the "righteous Judge," God is fair and just, ensuring that all rewards are given according to His perfect wisdom and knowledge. This provides comfort to believers, knowing that their lives are evaluated by a just and loving God.

will award to me
The verb "will award" (Greek: "ἀποδώσει," apodōsei) suggests a future action, emphasizing the certainty of God's promise. It reflects the idea of giving back or recompensing, indicating that God will faithfully fulfill His promises to those who have remained steadfast in their faith.

on that day
This phrase refers to a specific future time, often understood as the day of Christ's return or the final judgment. It is a day of reckoning and reward, when believers will receive their eternal inheritance. This eschatological perspective encourages Christians to live with an eternal mindset, focusing on the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises.

and not only to me
Paul expands the promise beyond himself, highlighting the communal aspect of the Christian faith. This inclusivity reflects the universal nature of God's grace, available to all who believe and follow Christ.

but to all who crave His appearing
The word "crave" (Greek: "ἀγαπῶσιν," agapōsin) conveys a deep longing or love. It suggests an eager anticipation for Christ's return, a hallmark of genuine faith. This longing is not passive but active, motivating believers to live in a way that reflects their hope and expectation of seeing Jesus face to face. The phrase "His appearing" (Greek: "τὴν ἐπιφάνειαν," tēn epiphaneian) refers to the second coming of Christ, a central tenet of Christian eschatology. This hope unites believers across time and space, encouraging them to persevere in faith and righteousness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul
The apostle who wrote this letter to Timothy, expressing his confidence in the reward awaiting him after his faithful service.

2. Timothy
A young pastor and close companion of Paul, recipient of this letter, encouraged to remain steadfast in his ministry.

3. The Lord, the Righteous Judge
Refers to Jesus Christ, who will judge all people and reward those who have been faithful.

4. The Crown of Righteousness
A metaphorical reward for those who have lived righteously and longed for Christ's return.

5. That Day
Refers to the future time of Christ's return and the final judgment.

Teaching Points

The Certainty of Reward
Believers can be assured of the reward awaiting them for their faithfulness. This certainty should motivate us to live righteously and serve diligently.

Longing for Christ's Return
A genuine desire for Jesus' return is a mark of true faith. This longing should influence our daily decisions and priorities.

The Righteous Judge
Jesus, as the righteous Judge, ensures that all judgments are fair and just. We can trust His decisions and live with integrity, knowing He sees all.

Encouragement in Trials
Paul’s confidence in his reward despite his trials encourages us to persevere through difficulties, knowing our labor is not in vain.

Community of Believers
The promise of the crown is not just for Paul but for all who love Christ's appearing, highlighting the communal aspect of faith and the shared hope among believers.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the promise of the "crown of righteousness" influence your daily walk with Christ?

2. In what ways can you cultivate a deeper longing for Christ's return in your life?

3. How does understanding Jesus as the "righteous Judge" impact your view of justice and fairness in the world?

4. Reflect on a time when you faced trials. How did the hope of future reward help you persevere?

5. How can you encourage others in your community to remain faithful and anticipate Christ's return together?

Connections to Other Scriptures

James 1:12
Discusses the "crown of life" promised to those who love God, paralleling the idea of a reward for faithfulness.

1 Corinthians 9:25
Paul speaks of an imperishable crown, emphasizing the eternal nature of the rewards for believers.

Revelation 22:12
Jesus declares He is coming soon, bringing rewards for each person according to their deeds, reinforcing the theme of judgment and reward.

Matthew 25:31-46
Jesus describes the final judgment, where the righteous are rewarded, illustrating the role of Christ as the Judge.

Sermons

The Great Reward	W.M. Statham	2 Timothy 4:8
Solemn Charge to Timothy	R. Finlayson	2 Timothy 4:1-8
A Christian's Death	J. Main, D. D.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
A Christian's Death	A. Waugh, D. D.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
A Congruous Crown	A. Maclaren, D. D.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
A Crown for All the Saints		2 Timothy 4:6-8
A Crown of Righteousness	T. Hall, B. D.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
A Crown Without Cares	J. Underhill.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
A Last Look-Out	C. H. Spurgeon.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
A Lost Crown		2 Timothy 4:6-8
A Noble Career	B. D. Johns.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
A Prisoner's Dying Thoughts	A. Maclaren, D. D.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
All Them Also that Love His Appearing	A. Roberts, M. A.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
An Assured Hope	Bp. Ryle.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
Best At Last	Bishop Horne.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
Bishop Ken in Life and Death	J. Stoughton, D. D.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
Byron and St. Paul -- a Contrast	J. E. B. Tinling, B. A.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
Calmness in Death -- its Philosophy	Homilist	2 Timothy 4:6-8
Carrying on the Battle	C. H. Spurgeon.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
Contrasted Deaths		2 Timothy 4:6-8
Death a Departure	Matthew Henry	2 Timothy 4:6-8
Death Anticipated	T. Hall, B. D.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
Good-Bye to the World	T. De Witt Talmage, D. D.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
Guarding the Faith	E. Mellor, D. D.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
Historic Crowns		2 Timothy 4:6-8
Joy of a Faithful Minister in View of Eternity	N. Emmons, D. D.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
Keeping the Faith	Bp. Phillips Brooks.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
Keeping the Faith		2 Timothy 4:6-8
Keeping the Faith	J. Lewis.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
Looking Out Toward Heaven	T. Hall, B. D.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
Loving the Second Advent	J. Vaughan, M. A.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
Martyrdom	J. P. Richter.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
Moral Warfare	T. Hall, B. D.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
More Crowns Left	Life of Father Taylor.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
On Keeping the Faith	S. Hayward.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
Passing on the Torch		2 Timothy 4:6-8
Paul the Hero	C. H. Payne, D. D.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
Paul the Martyr, Christian, Conqueror	M. Jones.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
Paul's Review of His Life	E. N. Kirk, D. D.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
Preaching for a Crown		2 Timothy 4:6-8
Presentiment of Death		2 Timothy 4:6-8
Readiness for Death		2 Timothy 4:6-8
Ready for Home	W. H. Burton.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
Ready to be Offered	T. Whitelaw, D. D.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
Sayings of Christians At the End of Life		2 Timothy 4:6-8
Seeking to Obtain a Crown		2 Timothy 4:6-8
St. Paul a Witness for Immortality	D. Trinder, M. A.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
St. Paul Keeping the Faith	J. R. Macduff.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
Tete D'Armee	T. De Witt Talmage.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
The Christian's Course	S. Hayward.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
The Christian's Course, Conflict, and Crown	James Brewster.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
The Crown of Righteousness	S. Hayward.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
The Crown of Righteousness	H. Melvill, B. D.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
The Crown of Righteousness	Canon Liddon.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
The Crown of Righteousness	D. Trinder, M. A.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
The Dying Christian	J. S. Pearsall.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
The Finished Race	T. Hall, B. D.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
The Good Fight	H. W. Beecher.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
The Heavenly Crown Assured	T. Hall, B. D.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
The Holy War	A. Fletcher, D. D.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
The Law of Sacrifice	Canon Knox Little.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
The Love of Christ's Appearance the Character of a Sincere Christian	W. Harris, D. D.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
The Nearness of the Apostle's Death	T. Croskery	2 Timothy 4:6-8
Unconscious Sense of the End of Life	Timbs.	2 Timothy 4:6-8
Welcoming Death	W. Jay.	2 Timothy 4:6-8

People

Alexander, Aquila, Claudia, Crescens, Demas, Erastus, Eubulus, Linus, Luke, Mark, Onesiphorus, Paul, Prisca, Priscilla, Pudens, Timothy, Titus, Trophimus, Tychicus

Places

Corinth, Dalmatia, Ephesus, Galatia, Miletus, Thessalonica, Troas

Topics

Appearing, Award, Crown, Future, Henceforth, Judge, Laid, Longed, Love, Loved, Loving, Manifestation, Onward, Ready, Render, Reserved, Revelation, Righteous, Righteousness, Stored, Upright

Dictionary of Bible Themes

2 Timothy 4:8

     1075   God, justice of
     1125   God, righteousness
     1310   God, as judge
     2072   Christ, righteousness
     2309   Christ, as judge
     2565   Christ, second coming
     5006   human race, destiny
     5280   crown
     5358   judges
     5362   justice, believers' lives
     5522   servants, work conditions
     5558   storing
     5580   thirst
     5787   ambition, positive
     6511   salvation
     8476   self-discipline
     9220   day of the LORD
     9240   last judgment
     9413   heaven, inheritance

2 Timothy 4:6-8

5109 Paul, apostle
8251 faithfulness, to God

2 Timothy 4:7-8

     4126   Satan, resistance to
     5500   reward, God's people
     8106   assurance, nature of
     8730   enemies, of believers

Library

Truth Hidden when not Sought After.
"They shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables."--2 Tim. iv. 4. From these words of the blessed Apostle, written shortly before he suffered martyrdom, we learn, that there is such a thing as religious truth, and therefore there is such a thing as religious error. We learn that religious truth is one--and therefore that all views of religion but one are wrong. And we learn, moreover, that so it was to be (for his words are a prophecy) that professed Christians, …
John Henry Newman—Parochial and Plain Sermons, Vol. VIII

A Last Look-Out
We have mainly to do with the second description which he gives of his death. What does he say when the hour that this grim monster must be grappled with is at hand? I do not find him sad. Those who delight in gloomy poetry have often represented death in terrible language. "It is hard," says one-- To feel the hand of death arrest one's steps, Throw a chill blight on all one's budding hopes, And hurl one's soul untimely to the shades." And another exclaims-- "O God, it is a fearful thing To see the …
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 17: 1871

Sermon for St. Peter's Day
Of brotherly rebuke and admonition, how far it is advisable and seemly or not, and especially how prelates and governors ought to demean themselves toward their subjects. 2 Tim. iv. 2.--"Reprove, rebuke, exhort, with all long-suffering and doctrine." THIS is the lesson which St. Paul gives to his beloved disciple Timothy, whom he set to rule over men, and it equally behoves all pastors of souls and magistrates, to possess these two things,--long-suffering and doctrine. First, it is their office to …
Susannah Winkworth—The History and Life of the Reverend Doctor John Tauler

Demas
BY REV. PRINCIPAL DAVID ROWLANDS, B.A. Many a man who figures in history, is only known in connection with some stupendous fault--some mistake, some folly, or some sin--that has given him an unenviable immortality. Mention his name, and the huge blot by which his memory is besmirched starts up before the mind in all its hideousness. Take Cain, for example. He occupies the foremost rank as regards fame; his name is one of the first that children learn to lisp; and yet what do we know about him? …
George Milligan—Men of the Bible; Some Lesser-Known

Some Other Writers of the New Testament
[Illustration: (drop cap L) Ancient engraving of man reading scroll] Let us now look at the rest of the books which make up the New Testament. In the days when Paul preached at Athens, the old capital of Greece, much of the ancient splendour and power of the Greek people had passed away, for the Romans had conquered their country, and they were no longer a free nation. Yet, although the Greeks had been forced to yield to Rome, their conquerors knew that the Grecian scholars and artists were far …
Mildred Duff—The Bible in its Making

Epistle Liii. To John, Bishop.
To John, Bishop. Gregory to John, Bishop of Constantinople [1503] . Though consideration of the case moves me, yet charity also impels me to write, since I have written once and again to my most holy brother the lord John, but have received no letter from him. For some one else, a secular person, addressed me under his name; seeing that, if those were really his letters, I have not been vigilant, having believed of him something far different from what I have found. For I had written about the …
Saint Gregory the Great—the Epistles of Saint Gregory the Great

Paul's Departure and Crown;
OR, AN EXPOSITION UPON 2 TIM. IV. 6-8 ADVERTISEMENT BY THE EDITOR How great and glorious is the Christian's ultimate destiny--a kingdom and a crown! Surely it hath not entered into the heart of man to conceive what ear never heard, nor mortal eye ever saw? the mansions of the blest--the realms of glory--'a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory.' For whom can so precious an inheritance be intended? How are those treated in this world who are entitled to so glorious, so exalted, so eternal, …
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3

How the Meek and the Passionate are to be Admonished.
(Admonition 17.) Differently to be admonished are the meek and the passionate. For sometimes the meek, when they are in authority, suffer from the torpor of sloth, which is a kindred disposition, and as it were placed hard by. And for the most part from the laxity of too great gentleness they soften the force of strictness beyond need. But on the other hand the passionate, in that they are swept on into frenzy of mind by the impulse of anger, break up the calm of quietness, and so throw into …
Leo the Great—Writings of Leo the Great

A Fulfilled Aspiration
'So that I might finish my course....'--ACTS xx. 24. 'I have finished my course....'--2 TIM. iv. 7. I do not suppose that Paul in prison, and within sight of martyrdom, remembered his words at Ephesus. But the fact that what was aspiration whilst he was in the very thick of his difficulties came to be calm retrospect at the close is to me very beautiful and significant. 'So that I may finish my course,' said he wistfully; whilst before him there lay dangers clearly discerned and others that had all …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture: The Acts

The Glory of Jesus and Mary.
Before entering upon the contemplation of the excellent glory which surrounds the blessed in heaven, we must endeavor to form a correct idea of God's grace, which enabled them to perform the great and noble actions we are now to consider. They were all, except Jesus and Mary, conceived in sin, and, therefore, subject to the same temptations that daily assail us. They never could have triumphed and reached the supernatural glory which now surrounds them, had they been left to their own natural strength, …
F. J. Boudreaux—The Happiness of Heaven

Exhortation to Workers and Ministers
In conclusion I feel that the Lord would be pleased for me to say a few words for the encouragement of young ministers and workers. In my work in the ministry I have come through many varied experiences that, I trust, will be helpful to you in the trials through which you will have to pass before you get settled in the Lord's work. The first difficulty met by most young ministers and workers is in regard to their call. Unless the call be clear and definite, they are likely to be in some doubt as …
Mary Cole—Trials and Triumphs of Faith

Author's Introduction,
In Which the Sources of This History Are Principally Treated A history of the "Origin of Christianity" ought to embrace all the obscure, and, if one might so speak, subterranean periods which extend from the first beginnings of this religion up to the moment when its existence became a public fact, notorious and evident to the eyes of all. Such a history would consist of four books. The first, which I now present to the public, treats of the particular fact which has served as the starting-point …
Ernest Renan—The Life of Jesus

Meditations of the Blessed State of the Regenerate Man after Death.
This estate has three degrees:--1st, From the day of death to the resurrection; 2d, From the resurrection to the pronouncing of the sentence; 3d, After the sentence, which lasts eternally. As soon as ever the regenerate man hath yielded up his soul to Christ, the holy angels take her into their custody, and immediately carry her into heaven (Luke xvi. 22), and there present her before Christ, where she is crowned with a crown of righteousness and glory; not which she hath deserved by her good works, …
Lewis Bayly—The Practice of Piety

Perseverance
'Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation.' I Pet 1:1. The fifth and last fruit of sanctification, is perseverance in grace. The heavenly inheritance is kept for the saints, and they are kept to the inheritance. I Pet 1:1. The apostle asserts a saint's stability and permanence in grace. The saint's perseverance is much opposed by Papists and Arminians; but it is not the less true because it is opposed. A Christian's main comfort depends upon this doctrine of perseverance. Take …
Thomas Watson—A Body of Divinity

Conflict and Comfort.
"For I would that ye knew what great conflict I have for you, and for them at Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh; that their hearts may be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgment of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ."--COL. ii. 1, 2. Although he was in prison the Apostle was constantly at work for his Master, and not least of all at the work of prayer. If ever the words …
W. H. Griffith Thomas—The Prayers of St. Paul

Concerning God's Purpose
1. God's purpose is the cause of salvation. THE third and last thing in the text, which I shall but briefly glance at, is the ground and origin of our effectual calling, in these words, "according to his purpose" (Eph. i. 11). Anselm renders it, According to his good will. Peter Martyr reads it, According to His decree. This purpose, or decree of God, is the fountainhead of our spiritual blessings. It is the impulsive cause of our vocation, justification, glorification. It is the highest link in …
Thomas Watson—A Divine Cordial

Second Missionary Journey
Scripture, Acts 15:36-18:22 +The Inception+--After the Jerusalem Council Paul returned to Antioch where he spent some time, "teaching and preaching the Word of the Lord with many others also." "And some days after Paul said unto Barnabas, Let us go again and visit our brethren i+The Companions+ (Acts 15:37-40).--Barnabas proposed to take John Mark, his nephew, with them on this second journey. But Paul strenuously objected, basing his objection on the ground that this young man had deserted them …
Henry T. Sell—Bible Studies in the Life of Paul

How the Gospels came to be Written
[Illustration: (drop cap B) Early Christian Lamp] But how did the story of the Saviour's life on earth come to be written? We have seen that many years passed before any one thought of writing it down at all. The men and women who had really seen Him, who had listened to His voice, looked into His face, and who knew that He had conquered death and sin for evermore, could not sit down to write, for their hearts were all on fire to speak. But as the years passed, the number of those who had seen Christ …
Mildred Duff—The Bible in its Making

Because There is not a Single Scripture in the Church Epistles Which, Rightly Interpreted, Teaches a Partial Rapture.
How could there be? Scripture cannot contradict itself. If the Pauline Epistles explicitly teach and expressly affirm that "all shall be changed in a moment," that "they that are Christ's at His coming shall be raised from the dead, that "we must all appear before the judgment-seat of Christ" and that when our lord returns to the earth to be glorified in His saints He shall be "admired in all them that believe" then these same Church Epistles can not teach that a part of the Church only shall be …
Arthur W. Pink—The Redeemer's Return

Curiosity a Temptation to Sin.
"Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil men. Avoid it, pass not by it, turn from it, and pass away."--Proverbs iv. 14, 15. The chief cause of the wickedness which is every where seen in the world, and in which, alas! each of us has more or less his share, is our curiosity to have some fellowship with darkness, some experience of sin, to know what the pleasures of sin are like. I believe it is even thought unmanly by many persons (though they may not like to say …
John Henry Newman—Parochial and Plain Sermons, Vol. VIII

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