2 Timothy 2:9
New International Version
for which I am suffering even to the point of being chained like a criminal. But God’s word is not chained.

New Living Translation
And because I preach this Good News, I am suffering and have been chained like a criminal. But the word of God cannot be chained.

English Standard Version
for which I am suffering, bound with chains as a criminal. But the word of God is not bound!

Berean Standard Bible
for which I suffer to the extent of being chained like a criminal. But the word of God cannot be chained!

Berean Literal Bible
in which I suffer hardship even to chains as an evildoer. But the word of God is not bound!

King James Bible
Wherein I suffer trouble, as an evil doer, even unto bonds; but the word of God is not bound.

New King James Version
for which I suffer trouble as an evildoer, even to the point of chains; but the word of God is not chained.

New American Standard Bible
for which I suffer hardship even to imprisonment as a criminal; but the word of God is not imprisoned.

NASB 1995
for which I suffer hardship even to imprisonment as a criminal; but the word of God is not imprisoned.

NASB 1977
for which I suffer hardship even to imprisonment as a criminal; but the word of God is not imprisoned.

Legacy Standard Bible
for which I endure hardship even to chains as a criminal. But the word of God has not been chained.

Amplified Bible
for that [gospel] I am suffering even to [the point of] wearing chains like a criminal; but the word of God is not chained or imprisoned!

Christian Standard Bible
for which I suffer to the point of being bound like a criminal. But the word of God is not bound.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
I suffer for it to the point of being bound like a criminal, but God’s message is not bound.

American Standard Version
wherein I suffer hardship unto bonds, as a malefactor; but the word of God is not bound.

Contemporary English Version
And because of this message, I am locked up in jail and treated like a criminal. But God's good news isn't locked in jail,

English Revised Version
wherein I suffer hardship unto bonds, as a malefactor; but the word of God is not bound.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
I'm suffering disgrace for spreading this Good News. I have even been put into prison like a criminal. However, God's word is not imprisoned.

Good News Translation
Because I preach the Good News, I suffer and I am even chained like a criminal. But the word of God is not in chains,

International Standard Version
Because of it I am experiencing trouble, even to the point of being chained like a criminal. However, God's word is not chained.

Majority Standard Bible
for which I suffer to the extent of being chained like a criminal. But the word of God cannot be chained!

NET Bible
for which I suffer hardship to the point of imprisonment as a criminal, but God's message is not imprisoned!

New Heart English Bible
in which I suffer hardship to the point of chains as a criminal. But God's word is not chained.

Webster's Bible Translation
In which I suffer trouble, as an evil-doer, even to bonds; but the word of God is not bound.

Weymouth New Testament
For preaching the Good News I suffer, and am even put in chains, as if I were a criminal: yet the word of God is not imprisoned.

World English Bible
in which I suffer hardship to the point of chains as a criminal. But God’s word isn’t chained.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
in which I suffer evil—to bonds, as an evildoer, but the word of God has not been bound;

Berean Literal Bible
in which I suffer hardship even to chains as an evildoer. But the word of God is not bound!

Young's Literal Translation
in which I suffer evil -- unto bonds, as an evil-doer, but the word of God hath not been bound;

Smith's Literal Translation
In which I suffer ill treatment, to bonds, as an evil doer; but the word of God has not been bound.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
Wherein I labour even unto bands, as an evildoer; but the word of God is not bound.

Catholic Public Domain Version
I labor in this Gospel, even while chained like an evildoer. But the Word of God is not bound.

New American Bible
for which I am suffering, even to the point of chains, like a criminal. But the word of God is not chained.

New Revised Standard Version
for which I suffer hardship, even to the point of being chained like a criminal. But the word of God is not chained.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
Because of him I suffer hardship, even to bonds like a malefactor; but the word of God is not restricted.

Aramaic Bible in Plain English
In which I suffer evil things, even unto chains, as an evildoer, but the word of God is not chained.
NT Translations
Anderson New Testament
in which I suffer evil, as an evil-doer, even to bonds: but the word of God is not bound.

Godbey New Testament
in whom I suffer affliction as an evil-doer, even unto bonds; but the word of God is not bound.

Haweis New Testament
for which I suffer affliction, even unto chains as a malefactor; but the word of God is not bound.

Mace New Testament
for which I suffer even the chains of a malefactor: but the word of God is not so confin'd.

Weymouth New Testament
For preaching the Good News I suffer, and am even put in chains, as if I were a criminal: yet the word of God is not imprisoned.

Worrell New Testament
wherein I am suffering hardship, even to bonds, as a malefactor; but the Word of God has not become bound.

Worsley New Testament
for whose sake I suffer trouble even unto bonds, as if I were a malefactor; but the word of God is not bound.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
Grace and Perseverance
8Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead, descended from David, as proclaimed by my gospel, 9for which I suffer to the extent of being chained like a criminal. But the word of God cannot be chained! 10For this reason I endure all things for the sake of the elect, so that they too may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus, with eternal glory.…

Cross References
Acts 28:31
Boldly and freely he proclaimed the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ.

Philippians 1:12-14
Now I want you to know, brothers, that my circumstances have actually served to advance the gospel. / As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. / And most of the brothers, confident in the Lord by my chains, now dare more greatly to speak the word without fear.

Colossians 4:3
as you pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains.

Ephesians 6:19-20
Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will boldly make known the mystery of the gospel, / for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may proclaim it fearlessly, as I should.

2 Corinthians 4:8-9
We are hard pressed on all sides, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; / persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed.

1 Peter 3:16-17
keeping a clear conscience, so that those who slander you may be put to shame by your good behavior in Christ. / For it is better, if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil.

Romans 8:35-39
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or distress or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? / As it is written: “For Your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.” / No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. ...

Acts 5:18-20
and arrested the apostles and put them in the public jail. / But during the night an angel of the Lord opened the doors of the jail and brought them out, saying, / “Go, stand in the temple courts and tell the people the full message of this new life.”

Matthew 10:17-20
But beware of men, for they will hand you over to their councils and flog you in their synagogues. / On My account you will be brought before governors and kings as witnesses to them and to the Gentiles. / But when they hand you over, do not worry about how to respond or what to say. In that hour you will be given what to say. ...

John 15:20
Remember the word that I spoke to you: ‘No servant is greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will persecute you as well; if they kept My word, they will keep yours as well.

1 Thessalonians 2:2
As you are aware, we had already endured suffering and shameful treatment in Philippi. But in the face of strong opposition, we were bold in our God to speak to you the gospel of God.

Hebrews 13:3
Remember those in prison as if you were bound with them, and those who are mistreated as if you were suffering with them.

Isaiah 55:11
so My word that proceeds from My mouth will not return to Me empty, but it will accomplish what I please, and it will prosper where I send it.

Jeremiah 20:9
If I say, “I will not mention Him or speak any more in His name,” His message becomes a fire burning in my heart, shut up in my bones, and I become weary of holding it in, and I cannot prevail.

Psalm 119:95
The wicked wait to destroy me, but I will ponder Your testimonies.


Treasury of Scripture

Wherein I suffer trouble, as an evil doer, even to bonds; but the word of God is not bound.

I suffer.

2 Timothy 1:8,12,16
Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God; …

Acts 9:16
For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name's sake.

as.

Ephesians 6:20
For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.

1 Peter 2:12,14
Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation…

1 Peter 3:16
Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ.

even.

Acts 28:31
Preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence, no man forbidding him.

Ephesians 6:19,20
And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel, …

Philippians 1:12-14
But I would ye should understand, brethren, that the things which happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel; …

but.

Ephesians 3:1
For this cause I Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles,

Philippians 1:7
Even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the defence and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace.

Colossians 4:3,18
Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds: …

Jump to Previous
Bonds Bound Chained Chains Criminal Doer Evil Evil-Doer Fetters God's Good Gospel Hardest Hardship Imprisoned Imprisonment News Point Preaching Prison Suffer Suffering Trouble Wearing Wherein Word
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Bonds Bound Chained Chains Criminal Doer Evil Evil-Doer Fetters God's Good Gospel Hardest Hardship Imprisoned Imprisonment News Point Preaching Prison Suffer Suffering Trouble Wearing Wherein Word
2 Timothy 2
1. Timothy is exhorted again to constancy and perseverance.
17. Of Hymenaeus and Philetus.
19. The foundation of the Lord is sure.
22. He is taught whereof to beware, and what to follow after.














for which I suffer to the extent of being chained like a criminal. But the word of God cannot be chained
for which I suffer
The phrase "for which I suffer" indicates Paul's personal experience of enduring hardship for the sake of the Gospel. The Greek word for "suffer" here is "πάσχω" (paschō), which conveys the idea of undergoing pain or distress. Historically, Paul faced numerous trials, including imprisonment, beatings, and persecution, as recorded in Acts and his epistles. His suffering is a testament to his unwavering commitment to Christ and serves as an encouragement for believers to endure hardships for their faith.

to the extent of being chained
The imagery of "being chained" reflects Paul's literal imprisonment. The Greek word "δέω" (deō) means to bind or tie, often used in the context of physical restraints. Archaeological findings from Roman prisons reveal the harsh conditions faced by prisoners, including chains and shackles. Paul's chains symbolize the cost of discipleship and the reality of persecution faced by early Christians. Despite these physical constraints, Paul's spirit remained unbound, demonstrating the power of faith to transcend physical limitations.

like a criminal
Paul compares his situation to that of a "criminal," using the Greek word "κακοῦργος" (kakourgos), which refers to an evildoer or malefactor. This term underscores the injustice of his imprisonment, as Paul was not guilty of any crime but was persecuted for preaching the Gospel. Historically, Christians were often unjustly accused and treated as criminals by Roman authorities. This comparison highlights the world's misunderstanding and rejection of the Gospel, a theme echoed throughout the New Testament.

But the word of God
The phrase "the word of God" refers to the Gospel message and the Scriptures. In Greek, "λόγος" (logos) signifies not just spoken words but the divine message and truth of God. The Bible, as the inspired word of God, holds authority and power. Throughout history, despite attempts to suppress it, the word of God has continued to spread and transform lives. This phrase emphasizes the enduring and unchanging nature of God's truth.

cannot be chained
The assertion that the word of God "cannot be chained" is a powerful declaration of its unstoppable nature. The Greek word "δέω" (deō), used earlier for "being chained," is negated here, illustrating the contrast between human limitations and divine power. Historically, attempts to suppress or destroy the Scriptures have failed, as God's word continues to thrive and reach new generations. This phrase inspires believers to trust in the sovereignty and efficacy of God's word, regardless of earthly circumstances.

(9) Wherein I suffer trouble.--Here St. Paul bids Timothy take courage, by thinking of the brave, patient example he was setting him in his Roman prison, undaunted and full of hope. "Wherein I suffer:" in which, that is, discharging my office as a preacher of the gospel, I suffer trouble.

As an evil doer.--Better rendered, as a malefactor: the same word used in St. Luke's Gospel for the two thieves crucified with Jesus Christ (Luke 23:32-33; Luke 23:39).

Even unto bonds; but the word of God is not bound.--A prisoner in chains and, as he tells us further on in the Epistle, expecting death, and yet he still could write and pray and speak from his narrow prison. Surely his disciple, still free, ought to work on with undiminished spirit and zeal. Though St. Paul was in bonds, his sufferings and imprisonment had in no way weakened the power of the gospel.

Verse 9. - Hardship for trouble, A.V.; unto for even unto, A.V.; as a malefactor for as an evil doer, A.V.; transposition of clause, unto bonds. Wherein (ἐν ῷ); i.e. in which gospel, in the preaching of which. Suffer hardship (κακοπαθῶ); as ver. 3, T.R. Unto bonds (μέχρι δεσμῶν). So μέχρι θανάτου, Philippians 2:8; μέχρις αἵματος, Hebrews 12:4; but most frequently of time, "until," as Matthew 11:23; Matthew 13:30; Acts 10:30, etc. A malefactor (κακοῦργος); as Luke 23:32, 33, 39; common in classical Greek. Bonds (δεσμῶν); as Acts 26:29; Philippians 1:7, 13, etc.; Colossians 4:18. So St. Paul calls himself δέσμιος, in respect of these bonds (Ephesians 3:1; Ephesians 4:1; 2 Timothy 1:8; Philemon 1:9). The Word of God is not bound. A beautiful reflection of an utterly unselfish mind! The thought of his own bonds, likely soon to be exchanged for the bonds of a martyr's death, awakens the comforting thought, Though they bind me with an iron chain, they cannot bind the gospel. While I am here, shut up in prison, the Word of God, preached by a thousand tongues, is giving life and liberty to myriads of my brethren of the human race. The tyrant can silence my voice and confine it within the walls of my dungeon; but all the while the sound of the gospel is going through all the earth, its saving words to the ends of the world; and I therein rejoice, yea, and will rejoice; and not all the lemons of Rome can take this joy from me."

Parallel Commentaries ...


Greek
for
ἐν (en)
Preposition
Strong's 1722: In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc.

which
(hō)
Personal / Relative Pronoun - Dative Neuter Singular
Strong's 3739: Who, which, what, that.

I suffer
κακοπαθῶ (kakopathō)
Verb - Present Indicative Active - 1st Person Singular
Strong's 2553: To suffer evil, endure affliction. From the same as kakopatheia; to undergo hardship.

to the extent of
μέχρι (mechri)
Preposition
Strong's 3360: As far as, until, even to.

being chained
δεσμῶν (desmōn)
Noun - Genitive Masculine Plural
Strong's 1199: Or desmos des-mos' neuter and masculine respectively from deo; a band, i.e. Ligament or shackle; figuratively, an impediment or disability.

like
ὡς (hōs)
Adverb
Strong's 5613: Probably adverb of comparative from hos; which how, i.e. In that manner.

a criminal.
κακοῦργος (kakourgos)
Adjective - Nominative Masculine Singular
Strong's 2557: (lit: an evil-worker), a criminal. From kakos and the base of ergon; a wrong-doer, i.e. Criminal.

But
ἀλλὰ (alla)
Conjunction
Strong's 235: But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise.

the
(ho)
Article - Nominative Masculine Singular
Strong's 3588: The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.

word
λόγος (logos)
Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular
Strong's 3056: From lego; something said; by implication, a topic, also reasoning or motive; by extension, a computation; specially, the Divine Expression.

of God
Θεοῦ (Theou)
Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular
Strong's 2316: A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very.

cannot be chained!
δέδεται (dedetai)
Verb - Perfect Indicative Middle or Passive - 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 1210: To bind, tie, fasten; I impel, compel; I declare to be prohibited and unlawful. A primary verb; to bind.


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NT Letters: 2 Timothy 2:9 In which I suffer hardship to (2 Tim. 2Ti iiTi ii Tim)
2 Timothy 2:8
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