2 John 1:8

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2 John 1:8 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

Watch yourselves, so that you do not lose what we have worked for, but that you may be fully rewarded.

King James Version KJV

Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we receive a full reward.

American Standard Version ASV

Look to yourselves, that ye lose not the things which we have wrought, but that ye receive a full reward.

Bible in Basic English BBE

Keep watch over yourselves, so that you do not make our work of no effect, but may get your full reward.

Free Bible Version FBV

Be careful that you don't lose what we've worked so hard for, and that you receive all that you should.

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

Looke to your selues, that we lose not the things which we haue done, but that we may receiue full reward.

Young's Literal Translation YLT

See to yourselves that ye may not lose the things that we wrought, but a full reward may receive;

World English Bible WEB

Watch yourselves, that we don’t lose the things which we have accomplished, but that we receive a full reward.

Noah Webster Bible WBS

Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we receive a full reward.

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

Look to yourselves, that you lose not the things which you have wrought: but that you may receive a full reward.

Translation for Translators T4T

So be sure that you do not let those teachers deceive you! If you let them deceive you, you will lose the reward which we, together with you, have been working for, and you will not receive the complete reward of being eternally united to God!

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Berean Amplified Bible — 2 John 1:8

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Word Study

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2 John 1:8 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

GRK βλεπετε εαυτους ινα μη απολεσωμεν α ειργασαμεθα αλλα μισθον πληρη απολαβωμεν

βλεπετε blepō G991 to see Verb-PAM-2P

εαυτους heautou G1438 themself F-2APM

ινα hina G2443 in order that/to Conj

μη mē G3361 not Particle-N

απολεσωμεν apolluō G622 to destroy Verb-AAS-1P

α hos, hē G3739 which Rel-APN

ειργασαμεθα ergazomai G2038 to work Verb-ADI-1P

αλλα alla G235 but Conj

μισθον misthos G3408 wage Noun-ASM

πληρη plērēs G4134 full Adj-ASM

απολαβωμεν apolambanō G618 to get back Verb-2AAS-1P

Greek Word Study

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Greek Word Reference — 2 John 1:8

βλεπετε blepō G991 "to see" Verb-PAM-2P

To see means to look at or perceive something, whether physically or mentally, as described in Matthew 12:22 and John 9:7. It involves using one's senses to understand or become aware of something, often with the intention of gaining insight or knowledge.

Definition: βλέπω, [in LXX chiefly for ראה, also for פּנה, etc. ;] __1. of bodily sight; __(a) to see, have sight (opposite to τυφλὸς): Mat.12:22, Jhn.9:7, Act.9:9, Rom.11:8, Rev.3:18, al.; __(b) to perceive, look (at), see: absol., Act.1:9; with accusative, Mat.7:3, Mrk.5:31, Luk.6:41, Jhn.1:29, al.; ὅραμα, Act.12:9; γυναῖκα, Mat.5:28; βιβλίον, Rev.5:3, 4; τ. βλεπόμενα, 2Co.4:18. __2. Metaphorical, of mental vision; __(a) to see, perceive, discern: absol., Mat.13:13, Luk.8:10; δι ̓ ἐσόπτρου, 1Co.13:12; with accusative, Heb.2:9 10:25; before ὅτι, Heb.3:19, Jas.2:22; __(b) to consider, look to, take heed: absol., Mrk.13:23, 33; with accusative, 1Co.1:26, al.; before πῶς, with indic., Luk.8:18, 1Co.3:10, Eph.5:15; before τί, with indic., Mrk.4:24; before εἰς πρόσωπον, of partiality, Mat.22:16, Mrk.12:14. Colloq. (for ex. from π., V. Deiss., LAE, 122; M, Pr., 107; MM, Exp., x; Milligan, NTD, 50), β. ἑαυτόν: Mrk.13:9; before ἵνα μή, II Jo 8; β. ἀπό, Mrk.8:15 12:38; before μή (cl. ὁρᾶν), with fut. indic., Col.2:8, Heb.3:12; id. with aor. subj., Mat.24:4, Mrk.13:5. __3. Of situation and direction (Lat. specto), to look, face (towards), places, etc. (before πρός, Xen, Hell., vii, 1, 17; Eze.40:23, 24): before κατά, with accusative, Act.27:12 (cf. ἀνα-, ἀπο-, δια-, ἐμ-, ἐπι-, περ-, προ-βλέπω), see DCG, i, 446; ii, 596. (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 116 NT verses. KJV: behold, beware, lie, look (on, to), perceive, regard, see, sight, take heed See also: 1 Corinthians 1:26; Luke 8:16; Hebrews 2:9.

εαυτους heautou G1438 "themself" F-2APM

This reflexive pronoun means 'themself' or 'themselves', referring back to the subject of a sentence, as in Matthew 27:42 and Luke 23:35.

Definition: ἑαυτοῦ, -ῆς, -οῦ, dative -ῷ, etc., accusative -όν, etc., pi. -ῶν, etc. (Att. contr. αὑτοῦ, etc); reflex pron.; __1. prop, of 3rd person (Lat. sui, sibi, se), of himself, herself, itself, etc.: Mat.27:42, Mrk.15:31, Luk.23:35, al.; added to a middle verb, διεμερίσαντο ἑαυτοῖς, Jhn.19:24; to an active verb, Act.14:14 (M, Pr., 157); ἀφ᾽ ἑαυτοῦ, Luk.12:57 21:30, Jhn.5:19, al. (see: ἀπό); δι᾽ ἑαυτοῦ, Rom.14:14; ἐν ἑ., Mat.3:9, Mrk.5:30, al.; εἰς ἑ., Luk.15:17; καθ᾽ ἑαυτόν, Act.28:16, Jas.2:17; παρ᾽ ἑαυτῷ, at his own house, 1Co.16:2; πρὸς ἑ., with, to himself, Luk.18:11; as poss. pron. (with emphasis weakened; see M, Pr., 87f.), τ. ἑαυτῶν νεκρούς, Luk.9:60. __2. As reflexive 1st and 2nd of person(s) (so also frequently in cl., chiefly poetry), Mat.23:31, Mrk.9:50, Rom.8:23, 1Th.2:8, al. __3. In pl., for reciprocal pron., ἀλλήλων, -οις, -ους, of one another, etc.: Mat.21:38, Mrk.16:3, Eph.5:19, al. (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 306 NT verses. KJV: alone, her (own, -self), (he) himself, his (own), itself, one (to) another, our (thine) own(-selves), + that she had, their (own, own selves), (of) them(-selves), they, thyself, you, your (own, own conceits, own selves, -selves) See also: 1 Corinthians 3:18; Galatians 2:20; 1 Peter 1:12.

ινα hina G2443 "in order that/to" Conj

This word means 'in order that' or 'to', showing purpose or result, as seen in Acts 19:4 and Romans 11:31. It's used to express a goal or outcome. In Ephesians 1:17, it's used to describe a purpose.

Definition: ἵνα, __I. adverb (poët., Hom., al.), __1. of place, where, whither. __2. of circumstance, when. __II. Conjunction, __1. prop., final, denoting purpose or end (cl.), that, in order that, usually the first word in the clause, but sometimes (cl. also) preceded by an emphatic word (Act.19:4, Rom.11:31 (?), Gal.2:10, al.); __(a) with optative (so in cl. after historic tenses): after a pres., Eph.1:17 (but WH, mg., subjc.; see Burton, §225, Rem., 2); __(b) with subjc.: after a pres., Mrk.4:21, Luk.6:34, Jhn.3:15, Act.2:25, Rom.1:11, al.; after a pf., Mat.1:22, Jhn.5:23 1Co.9:22, al.; after an imperat. (present or aor.), Mat.7:1, Mrk.11:25, Jhn.10:38, 1Co.7:5, al.; after a delib. subjc., Mrk.1:38, al.; after a fut., Luk.16:4, Jhn.14:3, 1Co.15:28, al.; after historic tenses (where optative in cl.; WM, 359f.; M, Pr., 196f.), Mrk.6:41 (impf.), Jhn.4:8 (plpf.), Mrk.3:14 (aor.), al.; __(with) in late writers (M, Pr., 35; Burton, §§198, 199), with indic., fut: Luk.20:10, 1Pe.3:1, al.; __(d) as often in eccl. writers (Thayer, see word), with indic. pres.: 1Co.4:6, Gal.4:17, al. (?; but V. Burton, §198, Rem.); __(e) εἰς (διὰ) τοῦτο, ἵνα: Jhn.18:37, 1Ti.1:16, al.; τούτου χάριν, Tit.1:5; __(f) elliptical constructions: omission of the principal verb, Jhn.1:8, 2Th.3:9, 1Jn.2:19, al.; of the final verb, Rom.4:16, 2Co.8:13, al. __2. In late writers, definitive, = inf. (WM, 420; Bl, §69, 1), that; __(a) after verbs of wishing, caring, striving, etc.: θέλω, Mat.7:12, al.; ζητῶ, 1Co.4:2 14:12; ζηλόω, 1Co.14:1, al.; __(b) after verbs of saying, asking, exhorting: εἰπεῖν, Mat.4:3, al.; ἐρωτῶ, Mrk.7:26, al.; παρακαλῶ, Mat.14:36, 1Co.1:10, al., etc.; __(with) after words expressing expediency, etc.: συμφέρει, Mat.18:6, Jhn.11:50, al.; ἱκανός, Mat.8:8, Luk.7:6; χρείαν ἔχω, Jhn.2:25, al, etc.; __(d) after substantives, adding further definition: ὥρα, Jhn.12:23 13:1; χρόνος, Rev.2:21; συνήθεια, Jhn.18:39; μισθός, 1Co.9:18. __3. In late writers, ecbatic, denoting the result, = ὥστε, that, so that (M, Pr., 206ff.; WM, 572; Bl., §69, 3; Burton, §223): Rom.11:11, 1Co.7:29, 1Th.5:4, al. (but see Thayer, see word); so with the formula referring to the fulfilment of prophecy, ἵνα πληρωθῇ, Mat.1:22 2:14, Jhn.13:18, al. (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 626 NT verses. KJV: albeit, because, to the intent (that), lest, so as, (so) that, (for) to See also: 1 Corinthians 1:10; 1 Timothy 5:20; 1 Peter 1:7.

μη mē G3361 "not" Particle-N

Not is a word used to show that something is not true or is not happening, like in phrases that say 'lest' or 'God forbid', as seen in various parts of the New Testament.

Definition: μή, subjective negative particle, used where the negation depends on a condition or hypothesis, expressed or understood, as distinct from οὐ, which denies absolutely. μή is used where one thinks a thing is not, as distinct from an absolute negation. As a general rule, οὐ negatives the indic, μή the other moods, incl, ptcp. [In LXX for אֵין ,אַיִן ,אַל ] __I. As a neg. adv., not; __1. with ref. to thought or opinion: Jhn.3:18, Tit.1:11, 2Pe.1:9. __2. In delib. questions, with subjc. (M, Pr., 185): Mrk.12:14, Rom.3:8. __3. In conditional and final sentences, after εἰ, ἐάν, ἄν, ἵνα, ὅπως: Mat.10:14, Mrk.6:11 12:19, Luk.9:5, Jhn.6:50, Rom.11:25, al. __4. C. inf. (see M, Pr., 234f., 239, 255), __(a) after verbs of saying, etc.: Mat.2:12 5:34, Mrk.12:18, Act.15:38, Rom.2:21, al.; __(b) with artic. inf.: after a prep., Mat.13:5, Mrk.4:5, Act.7:19, 1Co.10:6, al.; without a prep., Rom.14:13, 2Co.2:1, 13 1Th 4:6; __(with) in sentences expressing consequence, after ὥστε: Mat.8:28, Mrk.3:20, 1Co.1:7, 2Co.3:7, al. __5. C. ptcp. (see M, Pr., 231f., 239), in hypothetical references to persons of a certain character or description: Mat.10:28 12:30, Luk.6:49, Jhn.3:18, Rom.4:5, 1Co.7:38, 1Jn.3:10, al.; where the person or thing being definite, the denial is a matter of opinion: Jhn.6:64, 1Co.1:28 4:7, 18, 2Co.5:21, al.; where the ptcp. has a concessive, causal or conditional force, if, though, because not: Mat.18:25, Luk.2:45, Jhn.7:49, Act.9:26, Rom.2:14 5:13, 2Co.3:14, Gal.6:9, Ju 5; where the ptcp. has a descriptive force (being such as), not: Act.9:9, Rom.1:28, 1Co.10:33, Gal.4:8, Heb.12:27, al. __6. μή prohibitive, in indep. sentences, __(a) with subjc. praes., 1 of person(s) pl.: Gal.5:26 6:9, 1Th.5:6, 1Jn.3:18; __(b) with imperat. praes., usually where one is bidden to desist from what has already begun (cf. M, Pr., 122ff.): Mat.7:1, Mrk.5:36, Luk.6:30, Jhn.2:16 5:45, Act.10:15, Rom.11:18, Jas.2:1, Rev.5:5, al.; __(with) forbidding that which is still future: with imperat. aor., 3 of person(s), Mat.24:18, Mrk.13:15, Luk.17:31, al.; with subjc. aor., 2 of person(s), Mat.3:9 10:26, Mrk.5:7, Luk.6:29, Jhn.3:7, Rom.10:6, al.; __(d) with optative, in wishes: 2Ti.4:16 (LXX); μὴ γένοιτο (see M, Pr., 194; Bl., §66, 1), Luk.20:16, Rom.3:3, al.; μή τις, Mrk.13:5, al. __II. As a conj., __1. after verbs of fearing, caution, etc., that, lest, perhaps (M, Pr., 192f.): with subjc. praes., Heb.12:15; with subjc. aor., Mat.24:4, Mrk.13:5, Luk.21:8, Act.13:40, Gal.5:15, al.; ὅρα μή (see M, Pr., 124, 178), elliptically, Rev.19:10 22:9; with indic, fut. (M, Pr., l.with), Col.2:8. __2. in order that not: with subjc. aor., Mrk.13:36, 2Co.8:20 12:6. __III. Interrogative, in hesitant questions (M, Pr., 170), or where a negative answer is expected: Mat.7:9, 10, Mrk.2:19, Jhn.3:4, Rom.3:3 10:18, 19, 1Co.1:13, al.; μή τις, Luk.22:35, al.; before οὐ (Rom.10:17, al. in Pl.), expecting an affirm, ans.; οὐ μή, Luk.18:7, Jhn.18:11. __IV. οὐ μή as emphatic negation (cf. M, Pr., 188, 190ff.; Bl. §64, 5), not at all, by no means: with indic, fut., Mat.16:22, Jhn.6:35, Heb.10:17, al.; with subjc. aor., Mat.24:2, Mrk.13:2, Luk.6:37, Jhn.13:8, 1Co.8:13, al. (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 910 NT verses. KJV: any but (that), X forbear, + God forbid, + lack, lest, neither, never, no (X wise in), none, nor, (can-)not, nothing, that not, un(-taken), without See also: 1 Corinthians 1:7; 1 Peter 2:16; 1 Peter 1:8.

απολεσωμεν apolluō G622 "to destroy" Verb-AAS-1P

This Greek word means to destroy or lose something completely, and is used in the Bible to describe physical or spiritual destruction, such as in Matthew 10:28 and John 6:39. It can also mean to perish or die. Jesus uses it to warn against causing others to stumble.

Definition: ἀπ-όλλυμι and ἀπολλύω [in LXX for אָבַד, etc. (38 words in all)]. __1. Act., __1 to destroy utterly, destroy, kill: Mk 124, 922, al.; τ. ψνχήν, Mat.10:28, al.; __2 to lose utterly: Mat.10:42, al.; metaphorically, of failing to save, Jhn.6:39 18:9. __2. Mid., __1 to perish; __(a) of things: Mat.5:29, Jhn.6:12, Heb.1:11 (LXX, al.; __(b) of persons: Mat.8:26, al. Metaphorical, of loss of eternal life, Jhn.3:15-16 10:28 17:12, Rom.2:12, 1Co.8:11 15:18, 2Pe.3:9. In οἱ ἀπολλὺμενοι, the perishing, contrasted in 1Co.1:18, al., with οἱ σωζόμενοι, the "perfective" force of the verb, WH. " implies the completion of the process of destruction," is illustrated (see M, Pr., 114 f.; M, Th., ii, 2:10); __2 to be lost: Luk.15:4 21:18. Metaphorical, on the basis of the relation between shepherd and flock, of spiritual destitution and alienation from God: Mat.10:6 15:24, Luk.19:10 (MM, see word; DCG, i, 191 f., ii, 76, 554; Cremer, 451) (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 85 NT verses. KJV: destroy, die, lose, mar, perish See also: 1 Corinthians 1:18; Luke 15:4; 1 Peter 1:7.

α hos, hē G3739 "which" Rel-APN

The word which is a pronoun used to ask for or identify something, as seen in John 5:11. It can also be used to describe a person or thing, such as in Mark 15:23. This word helps to clarify or specify what is being talked about.

Definition: ὅς, ἥ, ὅ, the postpositive article (ἄρθρον ὑποτακτικόν). __I. As demonstr. pron. = οὗτος, ὅδε, this, that, also for αὐτός, chiefly in nom.: ὅς δέ, but he (cf. ἦ δὲ ὅς, frequently in Plat.), Mrk.15:23, Jhn.5:11; ὃς μὲν . . . ὃς δέ, the one . . . the other, Mat.21:35, 22:5, 25:15, Luk.23:33, Act.27:14, Rom.14:5, 1Co.11:21, 2Co.2:18, Ju 22; neut., ὃ μὲν . . . ὃ δέ, the one . . . the other, some . . . some, Mat.13:8, 23, Rom.9:21; ὃς (ὃ) μὲν . . . (ἄλλος (ἄλλο)) . . . ἕτερος, Mrk.4:4, Luk.8:5, 1Co.12:8-10; οὓς μέν, absol., 1Co.12:28; ὃς μὲν . . . ὁ δέ, Rom.14:2. __II. As relat. pron., who, which, what, that; __1. agreeing in gender with its antecedent, but differently governed as to case: Mat.2:9, Luk.9:9, Act.20:18, Rom.2:29, al. mult. __2. In variation from the common construction; __(a) in gender, agreeing with a noun in apposition to the antecedent: Mrk.15:16, Gal.3:16, Eph.6:17, al.; constr. ad sensum: Jhn.6:9, Col.2:19, 1Ti.3:16, Rev.13:14, al.; __(b) in number, constr. ad sensum: Act.15:36, 2Pe.3:1; __(with) in case, by attraction to the case of the antecedent (Bl., §50, 2): Jhn.4:18, Act.3:21, Rom.15:18, 1Co.6:19, Eph.1:8, al. __3. The neut. ὅ with nouns of other gender and with phrases, which thing, which term: Mrk.3:17 12:42, Jhn.1:39, Col.3:14, al.; with a sentence, Act.2:32, Gal.2:10, 1Jn.2:8, al. __4. With ellipse of a demonstrative (οὗτος or ἐκεῖνος), before or after: before, Mat.20:23, Luk.7:43, Rom.10:14, al.; after, Mat.10:38, Mrk.9:40, Jhn.19:22, Rom.2:1 al. __5. Expressing purpose, end or cause: Mat.11:10 (who = that he may), Mrk.1:2, Heb.12:6 al. __6. C. prep, as periphrasis for conjc.: ἀνθ᾽ ὧν ( = ἀντὶ τούτων ὧν), because, Luk.1:20, al.; wherefore, Luk.12:3; ἐξ οὗ, since, for that, Rom.5:12; ἀφ᾽ οὗ, since (temporal), Luk.13:25; ἐξ οὗ, whence, Php.3:20; etc. __7. With particles: ὃς ἄν (ἐάν), see: ἄν, ἐάν; ὃς καί, Mrk.3:19, Jhn.21:20, Rom.5:2, al.; ὃς καὶ αὐτός, Mat.27:57. __8. Gen., οὗ, absol., as adv. (see: οὗ). (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 1230 NT verses. KJV: one, (an-, the) other, some, that, what, which, who(-m, -se), etc See also: 1 Corinthians 1:8; 1 Peter 5:9; 1 Peter 1:6.

ειργασαμεθα ergazomai G2038 "to work" Verb-ADI-1P

This word means to work or labor, often implying physical or mental effort. In the Bible, it is used to describe various tasks, such as working for pay or trading. Jesus used it to teach about working for spiritual rewards.

Definition: ἐργάζομαι (ἔργον), [in LXX for עָבַד, פָּעַל, עָשָׂה, etc. ;] __1. intrans., __(a) to work, labour: Mat.21:28, Luk.13:14, Jhn.5:17 9:4 b, Act.18:3, 1Co.9:6, 2Th.3:10-12; τ. χερσίν, 1Co.4:12, 1Th.4:11; νυκτὸς κ. ἡαέρας, 1Th.2:9, 2Th.3:8; of working for pay, Mat.21:28; for reward, Rom.4:4-5; __(b) to work at a trade or business, to trade: before Iv (Dem.), Mat.25:16. __2. Trans., __(a) to work, work out, do, produce, perform: with accusative, 2Co.7:10, Col.3:23, 2Th.3:11, Jas.1:20, 2Jn.8, before εἰς, III Jn 5; ἔργον, Act.13:41 (LXX); id. before εἰς, Mat.26:10; ἐν, Mrk.14:6; ἔργα, Jhn.3:21; τὰ ἔ. τ. θεοῦ, Jhn.6:28 9:4; τὸ ἔ. κυρίου, 1Co.16:10; τ. ἀγαθόν, Rom.2:10, Eph.4:28 (see AR, Eph.) 190); id. before πρός, Gal.6:10; κακόν, before dative of person(s) (more frequently dupl. accusative, in cl.), Rom.13:10; δικαιοσύνην, Act.10:35, Heb.11:33; ἀνομίαν, Mat.7:23; ἁμαρτίαν, Jas.2:9; σημεῖον, Jhn.6:30; τ. ἱερά, 1Co.9:13; τ. θάλασσαν (work the sea, i.e. make one's living from it), Rev.18:17; __(b) to work for, earn by working (cl.): Jhn.6:27 (cf. κατ-, περι-, προσ-εργάζομαι; Cremer, 258; on the force of the aorist of this verb, see M, Pr., 116).† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 37 NT verses. KJV: commit, do, labor for, minister about, trade (by), work See also: 1 Corinthians 4:12; Hebrews 11:33; James 2:9.

αλλα alla G235 "but" Conj

But is a strong opposing word, used in Matthew 5:15 and John 7:16. It shows contrast or surprise, like in the phrase 'but God' in Romans 3:31.

Definition: ἀλλά (ἀλλ᾽ usually bef. α and υ, often bef. ε and η, rarely bef. ο and ω, never bef. ι; Tdf., Pr., 93 f.; WH, App., 146), adversative particle, stronger than δέ; prop. neuter pl. of ἄλλος, used adverbially, with changed accent; hence prop. otherwise, on the other hand (cf. Rom.3:31); __1. opposing a previous negation, but: οὐ (μὴ) . . . ἀ., Mat.5:15, 17 Mrk.5:39, Jhn.7:16, al.; rhetorically subordinating but not entirely negativing what precedes, οὐ . . . ἀ., not so much . . . as, Mrk.9:37, Mat.10:20, Jhn.12:44, al.; with ellipse of the negation, Mat.11:7-9, Act.19:2, 1Co.3:6 6:11 7:7, 2Co.7:1, Gal.2:3, al.; in opposition to a foregoing pos. sentence, ἀ. οὐ, Mat.24:6, 1Co.10:23; οὐ μόνον . . . ἀ. καί, Jhn.5:18, Rom.1:32, al.; elliptically, after a negation, ἀ. ἵνα, Mrk.14:49, Jhn.1:8 9:3, al.; = εἰ μή (Bl., §77, 13; M, Pr., 241; but cf. WM, §iii, 10), Mat.20:23, Mrk.4:22. __2. Without previous negation, to express opposition, interruption, transition, etc., but: Jhn.16:20 12:27, Gal.2:14; before commands or requests, Act.10:20 26:16, Mat.9:18, Mrk.9:22, al.; to introduce an accessory idea, 2Co.7:11; in the apodosis after a condition or concession with εἰ, ἐάν, εἴπερ, yet, still, at least, Mrk.14:29, 1Co.9:2, 2Co.4:16, Col.2:5, al.; after μέν, Act.4:17, Rom.14:20, 1Co.14:17; giving emphasis to the following clause, ἀλλ᾽ ἔρχεται ὥρα, yea, etc., Jhn.16:2; so with neg., ἀλλ᾽ οὐδέ, nay, nor yet, Luk.23:15. __3. Joined with other particles (a practice which increases in late writers; Simcox, LNT, 166), ἀ. γε, yet at least, Luk.24:21, 1Co.9:2; ἄ ἤ., save only, except, Luk.12:51, 2Co.1:13; ἀ. μὲν οὖν, Php.3:8 (on this usage, see MM, VGT, see word). (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 603 NT verses. KJV: and, but (even), howbeit, indeed, nay, nevertheless, no, notwithstanding, save, therefore, yea, yet See also: 1 Corinthians 1:17; 1 Thessalonians 5:9; 1 Peter 1:15.

μισθον misthos G3408 "wage" Noun-ASM

A wage is payment for work done, and can be good or bad. The Bible talks about wages in Matthew 20:8 and 1 Timothy 5:18.

Definition: μισθός, -οῦ, ὁ [in LXX chiefly for שָׂכָר ;] __1. prop., wages, hire: Mat.20:8, Luk.10:7, Rom.4:4, 1Ti.5:18, Jas.5:4, Ju 11; μ. ἀδικίας, Act.1:18, 2Pe.2:13 (but see Mayor and ICC, in l), 2Pe.2:15. __2. Generally, reward: Jhn.4:36, 1Co.9:18; esp. of divine rewards, Mat.5:12 6:1-2, 5 6:16 10:41-42 Mrk.9:41, Luk.6:23, 35, 1Co.3:8 3:14, 2Jn.8, Rev.11:18 22:12; ἔχειν μ., Mat.5:46, 1Co.9:17.† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 28 NT verses. KJV: hire, reward, wages See also: 1 Corinthians 3:8; Luke 10:7; James 5:4.

πληρη plērēs G4134 "full" Adj-ASM

Something that is full is complete or filled up, like the baskets in Matthew 14:20. This can be physical or spiritual, like being full of faith or the Holy Spirit.

Definition: πλήρης, -ες [in LXX chiefly for מָלֵא ;] __1. full, filled: Mat.14:20 15:37; with genitive of thing(s), Mrk.8:19; λέπρας, Luk.5:12; metaphorically, of the soul: πνεύματος ἀγίου, Luk.4:1, Act.6:3 7:55 11:24; πίστεως, Act.6:5; χάριτος, ib. Act.6:8; χ. καὶ ἀληθείας (where π. is indecl.; see M, Pr., 50; Milligan, NTD, 65, with reff. in each), Jhn.1:14; δόλου, Act.13:10; θυμοῦ, Act.19:28; ἔργων ἀγαθῶν, Act.9:36. __2. full, complete: μισθός, II Jn 8; σῖτος (π. prob. indecl. here; see on Jhn.1:14, supr.), Mrk.4:28.† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 17 NT verses. KJV: full See also: 2 John 1:8; Acts 19:28; Matthew 15:37.

απολαβωμεν apolambanō G618 "to get back" Verb-2AAS-1P

To receive something back, like getting a reward or taking someone aside, as seen in Luke 16:25 and 2 John 8.

Definition: ἀπο-λαμβάνω [in LXX: Num.34:14 (לָקַח (Deu.25:5 A, Isa.5:17, 2Ma.4:46 2Mac 6:21 2Mac 8:6, 4Ma.18:23 * ;] __1. to receive from another; absol., to receive as one's due: Luk.16:25 18:30 (seel. λάβῃ) Luk.23:41, Rom.1:27, Gal.4:5, Col.3:24, 2Jn.8. __2. to receive back: Luk.6:34 15:27. __3. to take apart or aside: Mrk.7:33 (cf. use in π. of the recluses of the Serapeum; MM, see word).† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 10 NT verses. KJV: receive, take See also: 2 John 1:8; Luke 16:25; Romans 1:27.

Study Notes — 2 John 1:8

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Context
Cross References
2 John 1:8 Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Reflection Questions
Gill's Exposition on 2 John 1:8
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 John 1:8
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 John 1:8
Trapp's Commentary on 2 John 1:8
Ellicott's Commentary on 2 John 1:8
Adam Clarke's Commentary on 2 John 1:8
Cambridge Bible on 2 John 1:8
Barnes' Notes on 2 John 1:8
Whedon's Commentary on 2 John 1:8
Sermons on 2 John 1:8

Context — Beware of Deceivers

6And this is love, that we walk according to His commandments. This is the very commandment you have heard from the beginning, that you must walk in love. 7For many deceivers have gone out into the world, refusing to confess the coming of Jesus Christ in the flesh. Any such person is the deceiver and the antichrist.

8Watch yourselves, so that you do not lose what we have worked for, but that you may be fully rewarded.

9Anyone who runs ahead without remaining in the teaching of Christ does not have God. Whoever remains in His teaching has both the Father and the Son. 10If anyone comes to you but does not bring this teaching, do not receive him into your home or even greet him.

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	Hebrews 10:35	So do not throw away your confidence; it holds a great reward.
2	Revelation 3:11	I am coming soon. Hold fast to what you have, so that no one will take your crown.
3	1 Corinthians 3:14	If what he has built survives, he will receive a reward.
4	1 Corinthians 3:8	He who plants and he who waters are one in purpose, and each will be rewarded according to his own labor.
5	Hebrews 12:15	See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God, and that no root of bitterness springs up to cause trouble and defile many.
6	Galatians 3:4	Have you suffered so much for nothing, if it really was for nothing?
7	Mark 13:9	So be on your guard. You will be delivered over to the councils and beaten in the synagogues. On My account you will stand before governors and kings as witnesses to them.
8	John 4:36	Already the reaper draws his wages and gathers a crop for eternal life, so that the sower and the reaper may rejoice together.
9	Matthew 24:24–25	For false Christs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and wonders that would deceive even the elect, if that were possible. See, I have told you in advance.
10	Philippians 2:15–16	so that you may be blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and perverse generation, in which you shine as lights in the world as you hold forth the word of life, in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor in vain.

2 John 1:8 Summary

This verse is reminding us to be careful and mindful of our thoughts and actions, so that we don't fall into sin or deception. We need to watch out for false teachings and make sure we are following God's commandments, as seen in 1 John 2:3-6. If we stay faithful and obedient, God promises to reward us fully, not just for our works, but because of His love and grace (Romans 11:6). By trusting in God's love and walking in His ways, we can experience the fullness of His blessing and approval.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean to 'watch yourselves' in 2 John 1:8?

To 'watch yourselves' means to be mindful of your thoughts, actions, and the company you keep, so that you do not fall into deception or sin, as warned in 1 Peter 5:8 and Ephesians 6:18.

What have 'we worked for' in this verse?

The 'work' referred to here is the labor of love and ministry invested in spreading the Gospel and building up the church, as seen in 1 Corinthians 3:6-9 and Galatians 6:9.

What is the reward being referred to in 2 John 1:8?

The reward is the fullness of God's blessing and approval for faithfully walking in His commandments and loving one another, as promised in Revelation 22:12 and 2 Timothy 4:8.

How can I ensure I am 'fully rewarded'?

To be fully rewarded, you must remain faithful to the teachings of Christ and His commandments, as emphasized in John 14:15 and 1 John 2:3-6, and trust in His grace and mercy, as seen in Romans 11:6.

Reflection Questions

What are some potential dangers or deceptions that I need to 'watch' myself against in my daily life?
In what ways can I 'lose what we have worked for' in my walk with God, and how can I prevent this?
What does it mean to be 'fully rewarded' by God, and how can I experience this in my life?
How can I balance the need to 'watch myself' with the need to trust in God's sovereignty and grace?
What role does love and obedience play in receiving a full reward from God?

Gill's Exposition on 2 John 1:8

Look to yourselves,.... This is an exhortation to the elect lady, and her children, to look about them, and take care of themselves, and beware of these deceivers, and their doctrines: that we lose

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 John 1:8

Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we receive a full reward. Look to yourselves - amidst the widespread deception, so many being led astray.

Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 John 1:8

Such changes of the person, as we here find, are neither unusual, nor, in exhortation, inelegant; but some copies read in the two latter clauses ye. He presses to constancy in the true, incorrupt Christian profession. That we receive a full reward; that the expected recompence be not lost in the whole, or in any part, as ,4.

Trapp's Commentary on 2 John 1:8

8 Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we receive a full reward. Ver. 8. That we lose not, &c.] The godly, when they fall into foul courses, or grow remiss and leave their first love, may lose what they have wrought, 1. In respect of the praise of men; 2. In respect of their own former feelings of God’ s favour; 3. In respect of the fulness of their reward in heaven. The Nazarite that broke his vow was to begin all anew, Numbers 6:2-12.

Ellicott's Commentary on 2 John 1:8

(2) St. John had lately had opportunity of observing bow some of the matron’s children proved their adherence to the truth by their daily conduct. Having congratulated her about this, he states the chief thing which he desires of her: the pure Christian love which implies every other grace and virtue; in other words, walking after the divine commandments. That this love should be pure, that these commandments should be unimpaired, it was necessary to remember that nothing new could be added to the original message of Christ. This warning was timely, because many errors had already appeared, especially that greatest error which denied the Incarnation. The family must, therefore, be on its guard, lest it should be cheated of its reward. The test was very simple: any advance beyond the doctrine of Christ. It would be better for the family not to entertain in their house any who had committed themselves to these doctrines of development (2 John 1:4-11). (2 a.) (4) I rejoiced . . .—Comp. Romans 1:8; 1 Corinthians 1:4; 2 Corinthians 1:3; Ephesians 1:3; Philippians 1:3; Colossians 1:3. Of thy children.—Probably those met at home. Walking in truth.—Comp. John 8:12; 1 John 1:6-7; 1 John 2:6; 3 John 1:3-4. As we have received a commandment.—That is, walking according to the revelation of God’s will in Christ Jesus. (2 b.) (5) Love is the Christian’s moral disposition of mind, which embraces all other virtues and graces. It implies faith, because it is founded on Christian principle, and can only be tested by a right belief. It implies purity, because it is modelled on the love of God, and has abjured the old man. It implies unselfishness, because it desires the good of the other for his own sake and God’s. It implies humility, because it distrusts itself, relies on God, and thinks more of the other than of itself. (Comp. John 13:14; John 15:12; 1 Corinthians 13; Ephesians 5:2; 1 Peter 4:8; 1 John 3:11; 1 John 3:23; 1 John 4:7; 1 John 4:21.) Not as though.—See the Notes on 1 John 2:7-8; 1 John 3:11. (2 100) (6) The attitude of love in general, whether towards God or man, is best defined and described as “walking after God’s commandments.” It might have been thought that love would be a vague immeasurable feeling, differing chiefly in intensity; but the Christian disposition which is described as love is that practical and enlightened result of faith which naturally acts and expresses itself by following God’s will in all things. (Comp. 1 John 4:7; 1 John 4:16.) (2 d.) This is the commandment.—The sum of all God’s commandments for us is this: that we should be doers of the word which we have heard since first Christ began to fulfil the Law and the Prophets, and not of any other. All development from what He said, or from what we have repeated from Him is disobedience and error. (Comp. 1 John 2:24.) (2 e.) The appearance of deceivers is the reason for this warning against false progress (2 John 1:7).

Adam Clarke's Commentary on 2 John 1:8

Verse 8. Look to yourselves] Be on your guard against these seducers; watch, pray, love God and each other, and walk in newness of life. That we lose not those things which we have wrought] That we apostles, who have been the means of your conversion, may not be deprived of you as our crown of rejoicing in the day of the Lord Jesus. Instead of the first person plural, απολεσωμεν, &c., WE lose, &c., many MSS., versions, and fathers, read the whole clause in the second person plural, απολεσητε, YE lose, &c. Take heed to yourselves that YE lose not the things which YE have wrought, but that YE receive a full reward. This reading is more consistent and likely, and is supported by at least as good evidence as the other. We find that if these persons did not keep on their guard they might lose their salvation, and the apostles their rejoicing in the day of the Lord Jesus. Even this intimation might put them on their guard. Had the apostle said ye cannot finally fall, what a different effect would it have produced! Griesbach has placed these readings in the margin as being very probable.

Cambridge Bible on 2 John 1:8

8. Look to yourselves] Exactly as in Mark 13:9, excepting the emphatic pronoun; ‘But look ye to yourselves’.that we lose not] The persons of the three verbs are much varied in our authorities. The original reading probably was, as R. V., ye lose … we have wrought … ye receive. To make the sentence run more smoothly some have made all the verbs in the first person, others have made them all in the second. For the construction comp. 1 Corinthians 16:10. The meaning is, ‘Take heed that these deceivers do not undo the work which Apostles and Evangelists have wrought in you, but that ye receive the full fruit of it’.a full reward] Eternal life. The word ‘reward’ has reference to ‘have wrought’. ‘Apostles have done the work, and you, if you take heed, will have the reward’. Eternal life is called a full reward in contrast to real but incomplete rewards which true believers receive in this life; peace, joy, increase of grace, and the like. Comp. Mark 10:29-30.

Barnes' Notes on 2 John 1:8

Look to yourselves - This seems to be addressed to the lady to whom he wrote, and to her children.

Whedon's Commentary on 2 John 1:8

8. Look to yourselves—Words of solemn warning, warning against the deceptions of the deceivers. We—The apostles by whom the true doctrine was witnessed and the true Church established.

Sermons on 2 John 1:8

	Sermon	Description
	Hold Fast Till I Come by A.B. Simpson	A.B. Simpson emphasizes the importance of guarding our spiritual wealth against loss and ensuring we receive a full reward for our efforts. He draws a parallel between financial sa
	Are We Asleep in the Light? by Phil Beach Jr.	Phil Beach Jr. preaches about the importance of diligently seeking God and being alert and sober in these times of spiritual decline. He emphasizes the need to awaken from spiritua
	Blessedness of the Unoffended by T. Austin-Sparks	In this sermon, the preacher begins by reading a passage from the book of 2 Kings, where Elijah is taken up to heaven by a whirlwind. The preacher then shifts to discussing the sto
	Faith by Manley Beasley	In this sermon, the preacher discusses a conversation between Jesus and his disciples. The disciples asked Jesus what they needed to do to work the works of God. Jesus responded by
	Holding on to Your Confidence by David Wilkerson	In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of not losing confidence in God. He reads from Hebrews 10:35, which encourages believers to have patience and trust in God's p
	Through the Bible - Hebrews - Part 3 by Zac Poonen	In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of not being lazy in the Christian life. He shares a poem by A.B. Simpson that highlights the need for diligent work for God.
	Russ-05 Q & a a.katz by Art Katz	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of living a life worthy of God's reward in eternity. He explains that when Jesus comes, he will bring his reward with him and