What does "full reward" mean in the context of 2 John 1:8? Setting the Scene 2 John is a short letter warning believers not to tolerate or assist false teachers. Verse 8 says, “Watch yourselves, so that you do not lose what we have worked for, but that you may be fully rewarded.” The “full reward” is John’s way of urging readers to guard the truth so that everything God intends to give them—both now and in eternity—remains intact. Meaning of “Full Reward” • “Reward” (Greek misthos) literally means wages or payment for work done. • “Full” points to the complete, unhindered portion God wants to bestow. • John distinguishes reward from salvation. Salvation is a free gift (Ephesians 2:8-9); reward is earned through faithful obedience (1 Corinthians 3:8-14). What Can Be Lost? • Eternal commendation at the judgment seat of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:10). • Opportunities for greater service in the coming kingdom (Luke 19:17-19). • The joy of seeing fruit that endures (Philippians 4:1). • Personal testimony and influence in the present age (Philippians 2:15-16). How the Reward Is Experienced 1. At Christ’s return: “Behold, I am coming soon, and My reward is with Me” (Revelation 22:12). 2. Through enduring works that pass the fire test (1 Corinthians 3:13-14). 3. By sharing in Christ’s approval: “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21). Threats to a Full Reward • Supporting teachers who deny “the doctrine of Christ” (2 John 1:9-11). • Allowing deception to erode confidence in the gospel (Colossians 2:18). • Drifting from earlier zeal and works of faith (Hebrews 10:35-36). Guarding the Reward: Practical Steps • Stay alert to teaching—measure everything by Scripture (Acts 17:11). • Abide in what you have heard “from the beginning” (1 John 2:24). • Invest in works that last: truth-sharing, love, hospitality to faithful servants (3 John 1:5-8). • Refuse partnership with error, even when it seems charitable (2 John 1:10). • Look forward daily to Christ’s assessment (1 Peter 1:13). Related Scriptures That Echo the Theme • Hebrews 10:35 – “Do not throw away your confidence; it holds a great reward.” • 2 Timothy 4:8 – “A crown of righteousness, which the Lord…will award.” • James 1:12 – “The crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him.” • Revelation 3:11 – “Hold fast what you have, so that no one will take your crown.” Encouraging Takeaways • God intends His children to finish strong and receive everything He has prepared. • Faithfulness to truth today safeguards our reward tomorrow. • Even small choices—what we support, whom we welcome, how we contend for doctrine—factor into a “full reward.” • Christ keeps perfect records; nothing done for Him in truth and love will be overlooked. |
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