New International VersionOn the contrary, when he was in Rome, he searched hard for me until he found me.
New Living TranslationWhen he came to Rome, he searched everywhere until he found me.
English Standard Versionbut when he arrived in Rome he searched for me earnestly and found me—
Berean Standard BibleIndeed, when he arrived in Rome, he searched diligently until he found me.
Berean Literal BibleBut having arrived in Rome, he earnestly sought me out and found me.
King James BibleBut, when he was in Rome, he sought me out very diligently, and found me.
New King James Versionbut when he arrived in Rome, he sought me out very zealously and found me.
New American Standard Biblebut when he was in Rome, he eagerly searched for me and found me—
NASB 1995but when he was in Rome, he eagerly searched for me and found me—
NASB 1977but when he was in Rome, he eagerly searched for me, and found me—
Legacy Standard Biblebut when he was in Rome, he eagerly searched for me and found me—
Amplified Biblebut [instead] when he reached Rome, he eagerly searched for me and found me—
Christian Standard BibleOn the contrary, when he was in Rome, he diligently searched for me and found me.
Holman Christian Standard BibleOn the contrary, when he was in Rome, he diligently searched for me and found me.
American Standard Versionbut, when he was in Rome, he sought me diligently, and found me
Contemporary English VersionThen after he arrived in Rome, he searched everywhere until he found me.
English Revised Versionbut, when he was in Rome, he sought me diligently, and found me
GOD'S WORD® TranslationWhen he arrived in Rome, he searched hard for me and found me.
Good News Translationbut as soon as he arrived in Rome, he started looking for me until he found me.
International Standard VersionInstead, when he arrived in Rome he searched diligently for me and found me.
NET BibleBut when he arrived in Rome, he eagerly searched for me and found me.
New Heart English Biblebut when he was in Rome, he sought me diligently, and found me
Webster's Bible TranslationBut, when he was in Rome, he sought me out very diligently, and found me.
Weymouth New TestamentNay, when he was here in Rome, he took great pains to inquire where I was living, and at last he found me. Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleIndeed, when he arrived in Rome, he searched very diligently until he found me.
World English Biblebut when he was in Rome, he sought me diligently and found me Literal Translations Literal Standard Versionbut being in Rome, he sought me very diligently and found [me];
Berean Literal BibleBut having arrived in Rome, he earnestly sought me out and found me.
Young's Literal Translation but being in Rome, very diligently he sought me, and found;
Smith's Literal TranslationBut, being in Rome, he sought me very diligently, and found. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleBut when he was come to Rome, he carefully sought me, and found me.
Catholic Public Domain VersionInstead, when he had arrived in Rome, he anxiously sought me and found me.
New American BibleBut when he came to Rome, he promptly searched for me and found me.
New Revised Standard Versionwhen he arrived in Rome, he eagerly searched for me and found me Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleBut when he was in Rome, he searched for me diligently, and found me.
Aramaic Bible in Plain EnglishBut also when he came to Rome, he sought me with diligence and found me. NT Translations Anderson New Testamentbut when he was in Rome, he sought for me very diligently, and found me.
Godbey New Testamentand, being in Rome, he diligently sought me, and found me.
Haweis New Testamentbut, when he was at Rome, he sought me out diligently, and found me.
Mace New Testamentbut when he was at Rome, he enquired for me very diligently, and found me.
Weymouth New TestamentNay, when he was here in Rome, he took great pains to inquire where I was living, and at last he found me.
Worrell New Testamentbut, being in Rome, he diligently sought me, and found me
Worsley New Testamenthe sought for me the more diligently, and found me.
Additional Translations ... Audio Bible
Context Hold to Sound Teaching… 16May the Lord grant mercy to the household of Onesiphorus, because he has often refreshed me and was unashamed of my chains. 17Indeed,when he arrivedinRome,he searched diligentlyuntilhe foundme.18May the Lord grant Onesiphorus His mercy on that day. You know very well how much he ministered to me in Ephesus.…
Cross References Acts 28:30-31Paul stayed there two full years in his own rented house, welcoming all who came to visit him. / Boldly and freely he proclaimed the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ.
Romans 1:16I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, first to the Jew, then to the Greek.
Philippians 1:7It is right for me to feel this way about all of you, since I have you in my heart. For in my chains and in my defense and confirmation of the gospel, you are all partners in grace with me.
2 Corinthians 11:28Apart from these external trials, I face daily the pressure of my concern for all the churches.
Acts 18:9-10One night the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision: “Do not be afraid; keep on speaking; do not be silent. / For I am with you and no one will lay a hand on you, because I have many people in this city.”
Acts 23:11The following night the Lord stood near Paul and said, “Take courage! As you have testified about Me in Jerusalem, so also you must testify in Rome.”
Acts 20:22-24And now, compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there. / I only know that in town after town the Holy Spirit warns me that chains and afflictions await me. / But I consider my life of no value to me, if only I may finish my course and complete the ministry I have received from the Lord Jesus—the ministry of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.
Romans 15:30-32Now I urge you, brothers, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to join me in my struggle by praying to God for me. / Pray that I may be delivered from the unbelievers in Judea, and that my service in Jerusalem may be acceptable to the saints there, / so that by God’s will I may come to you with joy and together with you be refreshed.
Colossians 4:3-4as 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. / Pray that I may declare it clearly, as I should.
Ephesians 6:19-20Pray 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.
1 Thessalonians 2:2As 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.
Acts 9:28-29So Saul stayed with them, moving about freely in Jerusalem and speaking boldly in the name of the Lord. / He talked and debated with the Grecian Jews, but they tried to kill him.
Acts 19:21After these things had happened, Paul resolved in the Spirit to go to Jerusalem, passing through Macedonia and Achaia. “After I have been there,” he said, “I must see Rome as well.”
Acts 21:13Then Paul answered, “Why are you weeping and breaking my heart? I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.”
Acts 26:17-18I will rescue you from your own people and from the Gentiles. I am sending you to them / to open their eyes, so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those sanctified by faith in Me.’
Treasury of Scripture But, when he was in Rome, he sought me out very diligently, and found me. Acts 28:30,31 And Paul dwelt two whole years in his own hired house, and received all that came in unto him, … Jump to Previous ArrivedContraryDiligentlyEagerlyEverywhereFoundGreatHardInquireLastPainsRomeSearchSearchedSoughtJump to Next ArrivedContraryDiligentlyEagerlyEverywhereFoundGreatHardInquireLastPainsRomeSearchSearchedSought2 Timothy 1 1.Paul's love to Timothy, and unfeigned confidence in Timothy himself, his mother, and grandmother.6.He is exhorted to stir up the gift of God which was in him;8.to be steadfast and patient in persecution;13.and to persist in the form and truth of that doctrine which he had learned of him.15.Phygellus and Hermogenes, and such like, are noted, and Onesiphorus is highly commended.Indeed, when he arrived in RomeThis phrase highlights the determination and commitment of Onesiphorus, a companion of Paul. Rome, the capital of the Roman Empire, was a bustling metropolis and a center of political power. During Paul's time, it was a city of great influence but also a place of persecution for Christians. The mention of Rome connects to Paul's imprisonment, as he was held captive there ( Acts 28:16). The historical context of Rome as a place of both opportunity and danger for early Christians is significant, as it underscores the courage required to seek out a prisoner like Paul. he searched diligently
The diligence of Onesiphorus is emphasized here, showing his loyalty and dedication. This reflects the Christian virtue of perseverance and the importance of supporting fellow believers, especially in times of trial. The act of searching diligently suggests a proactive and determined effort, which is a model for Christian service and fellowship. This can be connected to the parable of the lost sheep (Luke 15:4-7), where the shepherd searches until he finds the lost one, illustrating God's relentless pursuit of His people. until he found me
This phrase indicates success in Onesiphorus's quest, highlighting the reward of persistence. It also reflects the personal relationship and bond between Paul and Onesiphorus. In a broader sense, it symbolizes the Christian duty to seek out and support those who are suffering for their faith. The finding of Paul can be seen as a type of Christ's mission to seek and save the lost (Luke 19:10). It also serves as a reminder of the importance of community and encouragement within the body of Christ, as seen inHebrews 10:24-25, which urges believers to spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Persons / Places / Events 1. PaulThe apostle who wrote the letter to Timothy. He was imprisoned in Rome at the time of writing. 2. TimothyA young pastor and close companion of Paul, to whom this letter is addressed. 3. OnesiphorusA Christian from Ephesus who showed great loyalty and courage by seeking out Paul in Rome. 4. RomeThe capital of the Roman Empire, where Paul was imprisoned and where Onesiphorus searched for him. 5. EphesusA city in Asia Minor, where Onesiphorus was from and where Timothy was likely ministering. Teaching Points Diligence in ServiceOnesiphorus's determination to find Paul in Rome exemplifies the diligence we should have in serving others, especially those in need. Courage in FaithSeeking out Paul in a hostile environment required courage. We are called to be bold in our faith, even when it is risky. Loyalty to Fellow BelieversOnesiphorus's loyalty to Paul is a model for how we should support and stand by our fellow Christians. The Importance of EncouragementOnesiphorus's visit would have been a great encouragement to Paul. We should strive to be a source of encouragement to others, especially in difficult times. Seeking Out Opportunities to ServeJust as Onesiphorus actively sought out Paul, we should look for opportunities to serve and support others in our communities. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1.What is the meaning of 2 Timothy 1:17?
2.How can we emulate Onesiphorus's diligence in seeking out fellow believers today?
3.What does Onesiphorus's example teach about supporting those in ministry?
4.How does 2 Timothy 1:17 connect with Hebrews 13:16 about doing good?
5.In what ways can we show courage in supporting persecuted Christians?
6.How can we prioritize visiting and encouraging those in difficult circumstances?
7.What historical context surrounds Paul's imprisonment mentioned in 2 Timothy 1:17?
8.How does 2 Timothy 1:17 reflect the theme of loyalty in Christian faith?
9.Why is Onesiphorus's search for Paul in Rome significant in 2 Timothy 1:17?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from 2 Timothy 1?
11.Who was Onesiphorus in the Bible?
12.Who were the Early Church Fathers?
13.In 2 Timothy 4:17, is Paul's claim of being rescued 'from the lion's mouth' literal or a figurative expression, and how does this align with historical or scientific understanding?
14.Who was Tatian of Adiabene?What Does 2 Timothy 1:17 Mean Indeed- Paul uses this word to underscore a concrete, verifiable act of love that should grab Timothy’s attention. - It signals certainty, mirroring other moments where Paul stresses indisputable facts (Philippians 3:8;1 Corinthians 15:20). - The placement sets a tone of gratitude and commendation, preparing the reader to see Onesiphorus as a model believer (compare2 Timothy 1:16).
when he arrived in Rome- Onesiphorus had already refreshed Paul in Ephesus, yet he willingly traveled to the imperial capital—no small decision given the danger of associating with a condemned apostle (Acts 28:16, 30;2 Timothy 2:9). - Rome was crowded with prisoners and hostile officials; his arrival meant stepping into a context that had intimidated others (2 Timothy 4:16). - His journey reflects the call to leave comfort zones for the sake of the gospel (Acts 20:24).
he searched diligently- The verb pictures tireless, intentional effort: asking questions, knocking on doors, refusing to quit until Paul was located. - It illustrates the proactive nature of genuine fellowship—love acts, it does not merely feel (James 2:15-16). - Such diligent seeking echoes God’s own pursuit of His people (Jeremiah 29:13;Luke 15:8-10) and sets a pattern for believers to seek out those in distress (Proverbs 11:25).
until he found me- Persistence paid off; Onesiphorus reached the imprisoned apostle and met tangible needs (2 Timothy 1:16). - His success highlights perseverance in ministry: refusing to abandon a brother until the mission is complete (Galatians 6:9;Hebrews 6:10). - By standing with Paul in chains, he embodies Christ’s teaching that serving the least of His brothers is serving Him (Matthew 25:35-40).
summary2 Timothy 1:17 celebrates Onesiphorus’s courageous loyalty. He did not shy away from the stigma attached to Paul’s chains; instead, he undertook a risky journey, tenaciously combed Rome’s streets, and ultimately brought refreshment to the apostle. The verse invites believers to practice the same determined, self-sacrificing love—love that seeks, serves, and stays until the job is done. (17) But, when he was in Rome, he sought me out very diligently, and found me.--But, on the contrary, instead of fear--far from being ashamed--he, when he arrived in Rome, sought me out. This must have been a much more rigorous captivity than the one alluded to in the last chapter of the Acts when St. Paul dwelt in his own hired house with the soldier who guarded him. Now he was rigidly imprisoned, and the very place of his captivity was not, apparently, easily found. Verse 17. - Sought for sought out, A.V.; diligently for very diligently, A.V. and T.R.
Parallel Commentaries ...
Greek Indeed,ἀλλὰ(alla)Conjunction
Strong's 235:But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise.when he arrivedγενόμενος(genomenos)Verb - Aorist Participle Middle - Nominative Masculine Singular
Strong's 1096:A prolongation and middle voice form of a primary verb; to cause to be, i.e. to become, used with great latitude.inἐν(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.Rome,Ῥώμῃ(Rhōmē)Noun - Dative Feminine Singular
Strong's 4516:From the base of rhonnumi; strength; Roma, the capital of Italy.he searched diligentlyἐζήτησέν(ezētēsen)Verb - Aorist Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 2212:To seek, search for, desire, require, demand. Of uncertain affinity; to seek; specially, to worship, or to plot.[until]καὶ(kai)Conjunction
Strong's 2532:And, even, also, namely.he foundεὗρεν(heuren)Verb - Aorist Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 2147:A prolonged form of a primary heuro, which heureo is used for it in all the tenses except the present and imperfect to find.me.με(me)Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Accusative 1st Person Singular
Strong's 1473:I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.
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NT Letters: 2 Timothy 1:17 But when he was in Rome he (2 Tim. 2Ti iiTi ii Tim) |
