The Greek word komízō, represented by G2865, fundamentally means to bring or receive. Its base definition indicates it is properly used "to provide for" and by implication "to carry off" or "obtain". It appears 11 times across 11 unique verses in the Bible, often carrying significant theological weight related to future reward or consequence.
In scripture, G2865 is used to convey both a literal action and a spiritual reception. In a literal sense, a woman brought an alabaster box of ointment into the Pharisee's house Luke 7:37. More frequently, it describes the act of receiving a future reward or judgment. Believers are told they will receive what is due for their deeds at the judgment seat of Christ 2 Corinthians 5:10, and after doing God's will, they will receive the promise Hebrews 10:36. Conversely, those who do wrong will receive for the wrong they have done Colossians 3:25, and the unrighteous will receive the reward of unrighteousness 2 Peter 2:13.
Several related words clarify what is to be brought or received through the action of G2865:
- G1860 epangelía (promise): This word signifies a divine assurance of good. It is the object that believers receive after exercising patience and doing God's will Hebrews 10:36, though some who obtained a good report through faith did not receive the promise in their lifetime Hebrews 11:39.
- G3408 misthós (reward): This term for pay or wages is used for both good and bad outcomes. It is used in 2 Peter 2:13 to describe how the unrighteous will receive the reward of unrighteousness.
- G4735 stéphanos (crown): This word describes a prize or symbol of honor. When the chief Shepherd appears, the faithful will receive a crown of glory that does not fade 1 Peter 5:4.
- G4991 sōtēría (salvation): This term for rescue or safety is presented as the culmination of faith. Believers are described as receiving the end of their faith, which is the salvation of their souls 1 Peter 1:9.
The theological weight of G2865 is significant, highlighting the connection between earthly life and future consequence.
- Divine Recompense: The word establishes a clear principle of divine justice. At the judgment seat G968 of Christ, everyone will receive what is due for the things done in the body, "whether it be good or bad" 2 Corinthians 5:10. This applies to both believers receiving good for what they have done Ephesians 6:8 and wrongdoers receiving for their specific wrong Colossians 3:25.
- Fulfillment of Faith: The act of "receiving" is often the promised culmination of faith, patience, and obedience. Believers receive the promise after doing the will of God Hebrews 10:36, and the ultimate end of faith is described as receiving the salvation G4991 of your souls 1 Peter 1:9.
- Future Hope and Inheritance: G2865 points believers toward a future hope. When Christ, the chief Shepherd, shall appear G5319, the faithful will receive a crown G4735 of glory 1 Peter 5:4, securing an eternal honor as a result of their service.
In summary, G2865 is a multifaceted term that moves from the simple idea of "bringing" an object to the profound theological concept of receiving one's due from God. It is a cornerstone for understanding biblical teachings on accountability, judgment, and reward. The word illustrates that actions have consequences and that God faithfully provides the ultimate fulfillment—whether it is a just penalty for unrighteousness or the promised salvation G4991 and glory for the faithful.
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