The Greek word misthapodosía, represented by G3405, refers to a requital, which can be either good or bad. It appears 3 times in 3 unique verses in the Bible. The term encapsulates the concept of a "recompence of reward," signifying a just and fitting response to one's actions, whether they be of faith and endurance or of disobedience.
In its biblical usage, G3405 consistently points to the principle of consequence. It is used to describe a "just recompence of reward" that follows every transgression and disobedience, highlighting a negative requital for wrongdoing Hebrews 2:2. Conversely, it also represents a positive outcome. Believers are encouraged not to cast away their confidence, as it possesses a "great recompence of reward" Hebrews 10:35. This reward is presented as a future hope that is of greater value than earthly wealth, as seen when the "reproach of Christ" is esteemed as greater riches than the treasures of Egypt because of the promised recompence of the reward Hebrews 11:26.
Several related words help clarify the nature of the actions that lead to a G3405:
- G3847 parábasis (violation): This word denotes transgression or the breaking of a law. It is an act that is subject to receiving a just recompence of reward Hebrews 2:2.
- G3876 parakoḗ (disobedience): Meaning inattention or disobedience, this term is used alongside parábasis to describe actions that incur a just requital Hebrews 2:2.
- G3954 parrhēsía (confidence): This term describes the assurance and boldness that believers are to maintain, as it is directly linked to receiving a great recompence of reward Hebrews 10:35.
- G1738 éndikos (just): Meaning equitable or in the right, this word modifies recompence of reward to emphasize that the requital for transgression and disobedience is fair and fitting Hebrews 2:2.
The theological weight of G3405 is significant, establishing a clear framework of divine justice and reward.
- Just Consequence: The term solidifies the principle that actions have definite outcomes. Both transgression and disobedience are met with a "just recompence of reward," reinforcing the biblical theme of accountability Hebrews 2:2.
- Future Reward for Faith: G3405 serves as a powerful motivator for believers. The promise of a "great recompence of reward" encourages endurance and the holding fast of one's "confidence" in the face of hardship Hebrews 10:35.
- Spiritual Value System: By positioning the "recompence of the reward" as "greater riches" than earthly "treasures," the concept reorients a believer's values toward an eternal perspective. Enduring present "reproach" is seen as a worthy exchange for a future, divine reward Hebrews 11:26.
In summary, G3405 is a pivotal term that defines the biblical doctrine of requital. It is not merely a reward but a two-sided principle of consequence, applying both to the disobedient as a just penalty and to the faithful as a great and promised reward. The word underscores the theological truths that God's justice is perfect and that a believer's hope in future recompense provides the foundation for present endurance and faithfulness.
TRV