### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **misthós**, represented by `{{G3408}}`, refers to pay for service. This can be understood literally or figuratively, for good or for bad, and is commonly translated as **hire**, **reward**, or **wages**. It appears 29 times across 28 unique verses in the Bible, indicating its significance in discussions of compensation and consequence.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G3408}}` is used to describe both earthly payment and divine recompense. It is used for the literal **hire** due to laborers in a vineyard [[Matthew 20:8]], and James warns against the fraudulent withholding of this **hire** from those who have reaped the fields [[James 5:4]]. The concept extends to a spiritual principle, where a **labourer** `{{G2040}}` is considered worthy of his **reward** [[1 Timothy 5:18]]. Jesus speaks of a great **reward** in heaven for those who are persecuted [[Matthew 5:12]] and for those who love their enemies [[Luke 6:35]]. Conversely, the term can carry a negative meaning, as in the case of Balaam, who "loved the **wages** of unrighteousness" [[2 Peter 2:15]], and Judas, who purchased a field with the "**reward** of iniquity" [[Acts 1:18]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which a **reward** is given or received:
* `{{G2040}}` **ergátēs** (a toiler; figuratively, a teacher): This word for **labourer** or **worker** is directly linked to receiving a just payment. The principle that "the **labourer** is worthy of his hire" establishes a direct connection between work and its deserved **reward** `{{G3408}}` [[Luke 10:7]].
* `{{G2041}}` **érgon** (an act): This word for **work** or **deed** is the basis upon which a **reward** `{{G3408}}` is determined. Christ's future return involves giving every person a **reward** "according as his **work** shall be" [[Revelation 22:12]].
* `{{G93}}` **adikía** (wrongfulness): This term for **unrighteousness** or **iniquity** illustrates the negative aspect of receiving one's due. It is used to describe the "**wages** `{{G3408}}` of unrighteousness" that some love [[2 Peter 2:15]] and the "**reward** of iniquity" that comes from betrayal [[Acts 1:18]].
* `{{G2983}}` **lambánō** (to take, obtain, receive): This verb is frequently used to describe the act of getting a **reward** `{{G3408}}`. Paul states that every man shall **receive** his own **reward** according to his own labor [[1 Corinthians 3:8]], and those who receive a prophet will **receive** a prophet's **reward** [[Matthew 10:41]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3408}}` is significant, touching on justice, motivation, and final judgment.
* **The Principle of Just Compensation:** The idea that a **labourer** `{{G2040}}` is worthy of his **reward** is a foundational principle of fairness [[1 Timothy 5:18]]. This extends to spiritual work, where those who plant and water will each **receive** their own **reward** according to their labor [[1 Corinthians 3:8]].
* **Motivation and Divine Reward:** A key theme is the motivation behind actions. Those who perform acts like giving **alms** `{{G1654}}` or praying to be seen by others have already received their **reward** on earth. The true, great **reward** comes from the Father in heaven for acts done in secret or for selfless reasons ([[Matthew 6:1]], [[Luke 6:35]]).
* **Consequences of Unrighteousness:** **Misthós** is not always a positive outcome. It serves as the "pay" or consequence for sin, described as the "**reward** of unrighteousness" [[2 Peter 2:13]]. This highlights that divine justice ensures a fitting outcome for both righteous and unrighteous deeds.
* **Future Judgment:** The concept of a final **reward** is a recurring theme. Christ will bring His **reward** with Him to judge all people based on their **work** `{{G2041}}` [[Revelation 22:12]]. Believers are exhorted to be steadfast so that they may **receive** a full **reward** and not lose what they have worked for [[2 John 1:8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3408}}` is a multifaceted term that goes beyond a simple payment. It is a cornerstone concept for understanding biblical justice, where actions and their motivations result in a corresponding outcome. Whether as literal **wages**, a future heavenly **reward** for faithfulness, or the negative consequence of sin, **misthós** emphasizes that all labor will ultimately be met with its just due.
TRV