2 Timothy 1:17
What does 2 Timothy 1:17 mean?
A plain-English look at 2 Timothy 1:17 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What 2 Timothy 1:17 means
When Onesiphorus was in Rome, he diligently searched for Paul and found him. This was no easy task; prisoners were not always easily accessible, and associating with them could bring danger or disgrace. His determined effort shows steadfast love and courage. He did not wait for convenience or invitation; he sought out the suffering apostle to offer help. The verse highlights practical faithfulness: true friendship and gospel partnership go beyond words to costly action. Onesiphorus stands as a rebuke to fear-driven withdrawal and as encouragement that God sustains His servants through the care of brave, compassionate believers.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000but, when he was in Rome, he sought me diligently, and found me
KJV
King James Version · 1611But, when he was in Rome, he sought me out very diligently, and found me.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901but, when he was in Rome, he sought me diligently, and found me
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949But when he was in Rome, he went in search of me everywhere, and came to me
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862but being in Rome, very diligently he sought me, and found;
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752But when he was come to Rome, he carefully sought me and found me.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890but being in Rome sought me out very diligently, and found [me] —
Context
This detail extends the commendation begun in verse 16 and precedes the prayer in verse 18. It reinforces the earlier theme of not being ashamed (verse 8) by showing what such boldness looks like on the ground. The mention of Rome also situates Paul’s imprisonment and explains why many in Asia may have distanced themselves. Ending with this action prepares for Paul’s prayer that Onesiphorus receive mercy “in that day,” tying the present act of courage to future divine reward and reminding Timothy of the ultimate horizon of service.
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