2 Timothy 1:16

The Lord give mercy unto the house of Onesiphorus; for he oft refreshed me, and was not ashamed of my chain:

Word-by-Word Analysis

δῴη

G1325

give

to give (used in a very wide application, properly, or by implication, literally or figuratively; greatly modified by the connection)

ἔλεος

G1656

mercy

compassion (human or divine, especially active)

ὁ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

κύριος

G2962

The Lord

supreme in authority, i.e., (as noun) controller; by implication, master (as a respectful title)

τῷ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

Ὀνησιφόρου

G3683

of Onesiphorus

profit-bearer; onesiphorus, a christian

οἴκῳ

G3624

unto the house

a dwelling (more or less extensive, literal or figurative); by implication, a family (more or less related, literally or figuratively)

ὅτι

G3754

for

demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because

πολλάκις

G4178

oft

many times, i.e., frequently

#10

με

G3165

#11

ἀνέψυξεν

G404

properly, to cool off, i.e., (figuratively) relieve

#12

καὶ

G2532

and

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

#13

τὴν

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#14

ἅλυσίν

G254

chain

a fetter or manacle

#15

μου

G3450

of my

of me

#16

οὐκ

G3756

not

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

#17

ἐπῆσχύνθη,

G1870

ashamed

to feel shame for something

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing mercy contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

How might the original audience's understanding of mercy differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
In what ways does understanding mercy in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?