### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term `{{G3408}}` (μισθός, *misthós*) fundamentally denotes "pay for service" or "wages." Its semantic range extends beyond mere monetary compensation to encompass the broader concept of "recompense" or "reward," which can be either positive or negative. At its core, `{{G3408}}` signifies that which is due or deserved as a result of an action, labor, or conduct. It implies a direct correlation between effort or deed and its corresponding outcome. This recompense can be a just remuneration for work performed, a beneficial reward for righteous actions, or a punitive consequence for unrighteousness. The term thus carries a strong implication of justice and proportionality, reflecting a system where actions elicit appropriate returns.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The usage of `{{G3408}}` in the New Testament illuminates its multifaceted meaning:
1. **Literal Wages/Hire:** In several instances, `{{G3408}}` refers to actual payment for labor. Jesus' parable of the laborers in the vineyard speaks of receiving their "wages" ([[Matthew 20:8]]). John the Baptist advises soldiers to be content with their "wages" ([[Luke 3:14]]). Paul asserts his right to receive "wages" for his ministry ([[1 Corinthians 9:18]]), though he often chose not to exercise it. James condemns those who defraud laborers of their "wages" ([[James 5:4]]), highlighting a matter of social justice.
2. **Positive Divine Reward:** This is a prominent usage, particularly in the Synoptic Gospels. Believers are promised a "great reward" in heaven for enduring persecution for Christ's sake ([[Matthew 5:12]], [[Luke 6:23]]). Those who receive a prophet or a righteous person will receive a "prophet's reward" or a "righteous person's reward" ([[Matthew 10:41]]). Jesus emphasizes that good deeds performed in secret, such as giving, praying, and fasting, will result in a divine "reward" from the Father ([[Matthew 6:1]], [[Matthew 6:2]], [[Matthew 6:5]], [[Matthew 6:16]]). This divine *misthós* is distinct from human praise and is reserved for genuine piety. Similarly, showing love to enemies and lending without expecting repayment will yield a "great reward" ([[Luke 6:35]]). The concept culminates in the promise of Christ's return, bringing His "reward" with Him to repay everyone according to their deeds ([[Revelation 22:12]]).
3. **Negative Recompense/Punishment:** While less frequent, `{{G3408}}` can also denote a negative consequence or deserved punishment. Peter refers to the "wages of unrighteousness" received by false teachers, likening them to Balaam who loved such "wages" ([[2 Peter 2:15]]). In the context of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus states that those who perform religious acts to be seen by others "have received their reward in full" ([[Matthew 6:2]], [[Matthew 6:5]], [[Matthew 6:16]]). Here, the "reward" is the fleeting human praise they sought, signifying that they have forfeited any divine commendation. This highlights the principle that one's motivation determines the nature and source of their *misthós*.
### Related Words & Concepts
`{{G3408}}` stands in relation to several other key terms and theological concepts:
* **`{{G2493}}` (μισθωτός, *misthōtós*):** "Hired servant" or "laborer," directly linked to the one who receives `{{G3408}}`.
* **`{{G3405}}` (μισθόω, *misthoō*):** The verb "to hire" or "to pay wages," indicating the action that leads to `{{G3408}}`.
* **`{{G2087}}` (ἔργον, *ergon*):** "Work" or "deed." The *misthós* is the recompense for one's *ergon*.
* **`{{G5467}}` (χάρις, *charis*):** "Grace" or "gift." This stands in theological tension with `{{G3408}}`. While *misthós* is earned, *charis* is freely given. Salvation is by grace through faith, not by works, yet faithful works are rewarded.
* **`{{G4694}}` (σπέρμα, *sperma*):** "Seed." The principle of sowing and reaping (Galatians 6:7-9) closely parallels the concept of actions leading to a corresponding *misthós*.
* **Justice and Recompense:** The very essence of `{{G3408}}` is tied to the concept of divine justice, where God repays according to deeds.
* **Merit and Desert:** While salvation is not based on human merit, the concept of *misthós* acknowledges that human actions, when performed in faith and obedience, are not without consequence in God's economy.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G3408}}` is profound:
1. **Divine Justice and Faithfulness:** The consistent use of `{{G3408}}` underscores God's perfect justice and faithfulness. He is a God who does not forget the works and labor of love ([[Hebrews 6:10]]). Every righteous act, every sacrifice made for His name, and every act of obedience will be duly recognized and rewarded by Him. This provides immense assurance and motivation for believers.
2. **Motivation for Righteous Living:** The promise of a divine `{{G3408}}` serves as a powerful, yet nuanced, motivation for believers to live righteously. It encourages steadfastness in the face of persecution, generosity, sincere devotion, and selfless service. This is not a motivation to *earn* salvation, which is by grace, but to *honor* God and to receive commendation and greater responsibility in His eternal kingdom.
3. **Distinction Between Earthly and Heavenly Rewards:** Jesus sharply contrasts the fleeting "reward" of human praise with the enduring "reward" from the Father. This teaches believers to prioritize God's approval over human accolades, fostering humility and genuine piety.
4. **Eschatological Hope:** Many instances of `{{G3408}}` point to a future, heavenly recompense. This eschatological dimension provides hope and perspective, reminding believers that their ultimate reward awaits them in the presence of Christ, when He returns to render to each one according to his deeds ([[Revelation 22:12]]).
5. **Consequences of Unrighteousness:** The concept of `{{G3408}}` also carries a warning. Just as righteous deeds are rewarded, unrighteousness incurs its own "wages" or deserved consequences, culminating in eternal separation from God for those who reject His grace.
### Summary
`{{G3408}}` (μισθός, *misthós*) is a rich Greek term signifying "pay," "wages," or "recompense." It encompasses both literal remuneration for labor and, more significantly in the New Testament, the divine reward or consequence for human actions. This recompense can be a positive, often heavenly, reward for faithful obedience and righteous deeds, or a negative outcome for unrighteousness or self-seeking motives. The concept of `{{G3408}}` powerfully articulates God's perfect justice, His recognition of human effort, and His ultimate repayment according to deeds. While salvation is a gift of grace, the promise of {{G3408}}` motivates believers to live lives of sincere devotion, serving as a reminder that every act done in faith will be acknowledged by the Lord, who is a faithful rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.
TRV