2 Timothy 2:6

KJV

The husbandman that laboureth must be first partaker of the fruits.

KJV (with Strong's)

The husbandman {G1092} that laboureth {G2872} must be {G1163} first {G4413} partaker {G3335} of the fruits {G2590}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The farmer who has done the hard work should be the first to receive a share of the harvest.

Berean Standard Bible

The hardworking farmer should be the first to partake of the crops.

American Standard Version

The husbandman that laboreth must be the first to partake of the fruits.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
The metaphor of a diligent farmer illustrates a foundational principle for Christian ministry and life: those who labor faithfully and strenuously in God's service are justly entitled to be the first to partake of the fruits of their efforts. This verse, part of Paul's series of analogies to Timothy, underscores the necessity of hard work, perseverance, and the divine assurance that such dedicated service will indeed yield a rightful and blessed harvest.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within [2 Timothy 2](/2-timothy/2 "2 Timothy 2 - Be Strong in Grace"), a chapter where Paul provides Timothy with a series of vivid metaphors to encourage steadfastness and diligence in ministry. Preceding this verse, Timothy is exhorted to endure hardship as a good [soldier of Jesus Christ](/2-timothy/2-3 "2 Timothy 2:3 - Endure Hardship"), who avoids civilian entanglements to please his commanding officer. Immediately following, he is likened to an [athlete](/2-timothy/2-5 "2 Timothy 2:5 - Compete Lawfully") who must compete according to the rules to receive the crown. The "husbandman" (farmer) metaphor in [2 Timothy 2:6](/2-timothy/2-6 "2 Timothy 2:6 - The Husbandman's Reward") completes this triad, emphasizing not just discipline and endurance, but also the direct relationship between diligent labor and a just reward. Each analogy builds upon the others, painting a comprehensive picture of the dedication, sacrifice, and ultimate recompense inherent in faithful gospel work.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the agrarian societies of the ancient world, farming was the backbone of the economy and daily life. The "husbandman" (farmer) was a familiar and relatable figure to Paul's audience. Their existence was intrinsically linked to the land, requiring immense physical labor, patience, and a deep understanding of natural cycles. Farmers toiled from dawn till dusk, often facing unpredictable weather, pests, and poor harvests. Critically, the expectation that the farmer would be the first to benefit from their own harvest was a universally accepted principle of justice and economic reality. This right was often enshrined in law and custom, as seen in various Old Testament regulations concerning gleaning and the care of laborers. Paul leverages this common understanding to convey a spiritual truth: just as a farmer's labor directly leads to their sustenance, so too does diligent spiritual labor lead to its appropriate spiritual "fruits" and blessings.
* **Key Themes:** The primary themes embedded in [2 Timothy 2:6](/2-timothy/2-6 "2 Timothy 2:6 - The Husbandman's Reward") revolve around **diligence and perseverance in labor**, **the principle of just reward**, and implicitly, **God's faithful provision**. The emphasis on "laboureth" (Greek: _kopiáō_) highlights the strenuous, often exhausting effort required in ministry, signifying that spiritual fruit is not achieved without significant personal investment and enduring commitment. This concept aligns with the broader biblical principle of [sowing and reaping](/galatians/6-7 "Galatians 6:7 - Sowing and Reaping"), where effort yields results, and those who sow generously will also reap generously. Furthermore, the verse affirms that God honors and rewards faithful service, establishing a divine economy where diligent work is justly compensated. While human effort is paramount, the ultimate fruitfulness is also a testament to God's sovereign grace and provision, as the farmer relies on divine elements like rain and sun for the harvest.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Husbandman (Greek, _geōrgós'_):** From γῆ (earth) and ἔργον (work), literally an "earth-worker." This term emphasizes the direct, physical, and often arduous engagement with the soil. It portrays someone deeply invested in the land, whose livelihood and success are directly tied to their diligent cultivation. In Paul's metaphor, it represents a minister or Christian worker whose spiritual labor is analogous to a farmer's physical toil.
* **Laboureth (Greek, _kopiáō'_):** To feel fatigue; by implication, to work hard, often to the point of exhaustion. This word denotes intense, strenuous, and sacrificial effort. It's not casual work but a deep, persistent commitment that expends significant energy. For the Christian worker, it signifies the demanding nature of gospel ministry, which requires perseverance despite difficulties.
* **Fruits (Greek, _karpós'_):** Fruit (as plucked), literally or figuratively. This term refers to the produce of the land, the yield of the farmer's labor. Figuratively, in the context of ministry, it represents the results of spiritual work: transformed lives, spiritual growth, souls saved, and the blessings that flow from diligent service to God.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The husbandman that laboureth":** This opening clause identifies the subject of the proverb: a farmer who is actively engaged in strenuous, persistent work. The emphasis is not merely on being a farmer, but on being one who "laboureth" – implying a deep, often exhausting commitment to the task. In the spiritual application, this refers to any believer, particularly those in ministry, who diligently and sacrificially applies themselves to God's work.
* **"must be first partaker":** The word "must" (Greek: _deî_) indicates a divine necessity or obligation, underscoring that this is a just and inherent principle. "First partaker" (Greek: _prōtos metalambánō_) signifies priority and rightful entitlement. It does not imply exclusivity but rather that the one who has invested the labor has the primary and immediate right to enjoy the benefits of that labor. This highlights the fairness of God's economy, where effort is duly recognized and rewarded.
* **"of the fruits":** This refers to the produce or yield of the farmer's labor. In the spiritual metaphor, "fruits" represent the tangible and intangible outcomes of diligent Christian service. These can include spiritual growth, transformed lives, souls brought to Christ, the joy of seeing God's kingdom advance, and the personal blessings and divine provision that accompany faithful obedience and service.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device employed in [2 Timothy 2:6](/2-timothy/2-6 "2 Timothy 2:6 - The Husbandman's Reward") is **Metaphor**. Paul uses the familiar image of a farmer to represent a Christian minister or any believer engaged in spiritual work. This metaphor effectively conveys the concepts of diligent labor, patience, and the expectation of a harvest. Closely related is **Analogy**, as this verse functions as one of three distinct comparisons (soldier, athlete, farmer) that Paul uses in [2 Timothy 2](/2-timothy/2 "2 Timothy 2 - Be Strong in Grace") to instruct Timothy on the nature of dedicated service. The verse also functions as an **Axiom** or a self-evident truth, presenting a universally accepted principle from the natural world (the farmer's right to his harvest) as a foundational truth for the spiritual realm. This makes the exhortation both relatable and compelling, grounding spiritual principles in common human experience.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The principle articulated in [2 Timothy 2:6](/2-timothy/2-6 "2 Timothy 2:6 - The Husbandman's Reward") resonates deeply with the biblical understanding of divine justice and God's economy of reward. While salvation is entirely by grace through faith, God consistently honors and rewards the diligent labor of His servants. This verse underscores that faithful, often arduous, work in the kingdom of God is not in vain; it inherently leads to a rightful and blessed harvest. It speaks to God's character as one who sees and values the efforts of His children, ensuring that those who sow generously will also reap generously. The "fruits" are not merely earthly gains but encompass spiritual blessings, transformed lives, and the joy of participating in God's redemptive work, all of which are a just recompense for the investment of one's life.

* [1 Corinthians 9:7-11](/1-corinthians/9-7-11 "1 Corinthians 9:7-11 - The Right of Those Who Serve"): "Who goeth a warfare any time at his own charges? who planteth a vineyard, and eateth not of the fruit thereof? or who feedeth a flock, and eateth not of the milk of the flock? Say I these things as a man? or saith not the law the same also? For it is written in the law of Moses, Thou shalt not muzzle the mouth of the ox that treadeth out the corn. Doth God take care for oxen? Or saith he it altogether for our sakes? For our sakes, no doubt, this is written: that he that ploweth should plow in hope; and that he that thresheth in hope should be partaker of his hope. If we have sown unto you spiritual things, shall it be a great thing if we shall reap your carnal things?"
* [Galatians 6:9](/galatians/6-9 "Galatians 6:9 - Do Not Grow Weary in Doing Good"): "And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not."
* [Matthew 10:10](/matthew/10-10 "Matthew 10:10 - The Worker Deserves His Food"): "Nor scrip for your journey, neither two coats, neither shoes, nor yet staves: for the workman is worthy of his meat."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
[2 Timothy 2:6](/2-timothy/2-6 "2 Timothy 2:6 - The Husbandman's Reward") offers profound encouragement and a vital reminder for every believer engaged in God's work, whether in formal ministry or the daily outworking of their faith. It powerfully communicates that spiritual growth, impact, and blessing are rarely accidental; they are typically the result of consistent, diligent, and often sacrificial effort. Just as a farmer cannot expect a harvest without first tilling the soil, planting the seed, and tending the crop, so too must we invest ourselves wholeheartedly in the spiritual tasks God has given us. This verse calls us to embrace the demanding nature of Christian living and service, assuring us that our "labor in the Lord is not in vain" ([1 Corinthians 15:58](/1-corinthians/15-58 "1 Corinthians 15:58 - Labor is Not in Vain")). The "fruits" we partake of may be the joy of seeing lives transformed, the personal spiritual maturity gained through perseverance, the peace that comes from obedience, or the tangible blessings God pours out on those who faithfully serve Him. It challenges us to patiently endure, trusting that God will bring forth His harvest in His perfect timing.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life or ministry are you called to "labor" diligently, even to the point of weariness?**
* **What "fruits" do you anticipate from your faithful service, both in your own life and in the lives of others, now and eternally?**
* **How does this verse encourage you to persevere when ministry or Christian living feels arduous or unrewarding in the short term?**

### FAQ
**Does "first partaker" mean that ministers or Christian workers are entitled to special privileges or are superior to others?**

Answer: No, the phrase "first partaker" in [2 Timothy 2:6](/2-timothy/2-6 "2 Timothy 2:6 - The Husbandman's Reward") does not imply superiority or exclusive privilege. Instead, it emphasizes the principle of just compensation and the natural right of the laborer to benefit directly from their own strenuous efforts. In an agricultural context, it was understood that the farmer, having invested sweat and toil, had the primary right to consume or sell the produce before anyone else. Spiritually, it means that those who dedicate themselves to the demanding work of ministry or Christian service are the rightful and primary beneficiaries of the spiritual "fruits" that God produces through their labor. This can include spiritual joy, personal growth, seeing lives transformed, or even material support, as affirmed elsewhere in Scripture (e.g., [1 Timothy 5:18](/1-timothy/5-18 "1 Timothy 5:18 - The Laborer is Worthy of His Reward")). It's about a just reward for diligent effort, not a claim to elevated status.

**What are the "fruits" that a Christian "husbandman" can expect to partake of?**

Answer: The "fruits" in [2 Timothy 2:6](/2-timothy/2-6 "2 Timothy 2:6 - The Husbandman's Reward") are multifaceted and extend beyond mere material gain. Spiritually, they represent the tangible and intangible outcomes of faithful labor in God's kingdom. These can include the **transformation of lives** through the gospel, the **spiritual growth** and maturity of believers, the **joy and satisfaction** of seeing God work through one's efforts, the **development of Christ-like character** (the [fruit of the Spirit](/galatians/5-22-23 "Galatians 5:22-23 - The Fruit of the Spirit")), the **experience of God's presence and provision**, and ultimately, **eternal rewards** in heaven. Just as a farmer's harvest sustains them, the spiritual "fruits" sustain and nourish the Christian worker, providing encouragement, purpose, and a deep sense of fulfillment in their service to God.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While [2 Timothy 2:6](/2-timothy/2-6 "2 Timothy 2:6 - The Husbandman's Reward") presents a general principle of just reward for diligent labor, its deepest and most profound fulfillment is found in Jesus Christ. He is the ultimate "husbandman," the one who perfectly exemplified strenuous labor in the vineyard of God. Throughout His earthly ministry, Jesus tirelessly sowed the seeds of the Kingdom, proclaiming the good news, healing the sick, and teaching the truth, often to the point of exhaustion ([Mark 6:31](/mark/6-31 "Mark 6:31 - Resting with Jesus")). His ultimate labor culminated in His sacrificial death on the cross, where He bore the full weight of humanity's sin, and His glorious resurrection, which secured eternal life for all who believe. It was for "the joy that was set before him" ([Hebrews 12:2](/hebrews/12-2 "Hebrews 12:2 - Looking to Jesus")) that He endured the cross, demonstrating that the greatest labor yields the greatest fruit. As the "true vine" ([John 15:1](/john/15-1 "John 15:1 - The True Vine")), Jesus Himself is the source of all spiritual fruit, and through His Spirit, He enables His followers to bear much fruit for the glory of God ([John 15:5](/john/15-5 "John 15:5 - Abide in the Vine")). Thus, Christ is not only the diligent laborer but also the "first partaker" of the ultimate "fruits" of redemption, sharing His victory, His Spirit, and the eternal harvest of saved souls with His beloved church.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Hebrews 10:36

For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.

1 Corinthians 9:7

Who goeth a warfare any time at his own charges? who planteth a vineyard, and eateth not of the fruit thereof? or who feedeth a flock, and eateth not of the milk of the flock?

1 Corinthians 9:11

If we have sown unto you spiritual things, [is it] a great thing if we shall reap your carnal things?

1 Corinthians 3:6

I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase.

1 Corinthians 3:9

For we are labourers together with God: ye are God's husbandry, [ye are] God's building.

1 Corinthians 9:23

And this I do for the gospel's sake, that I might be partaker thereof with [you].

John 4:35

Say not ye, There are yet four months, and [then] cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest.