Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing.
English Standard Version (ESV)
Paul isn't just talking about a reward for his suffering; he's anticipating a prize that comes from God's righteousness, which will be fully revealed and given on the last day. This crown isn't earned by Paul's own good deeds, but is a gift for those who have eagerly awaited and loved Christ's return. It's a reminder that our hope for heavenly reward is deeply connected to God's own justice and faithfulness.
Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing.
English Standard Version (ESV)
Paul is writing this letter from prison, facing his impending death with remarkable peace and confidence in God. He's just encouraged Timothy to persevere in the face of suffering and to preach the Word faithfully, knowing that difficult times are coming but that God's truth endures. In this verse, Paul looks beyond his present circumstances to the ultimate reward awaiting all who faithfully love Christ and long for his return.
Paul talks about a 'crown of righteousness' being 'laid up' for him. What does this mean for us today?
This verse beautifully illustrates a core truth of our faith: righteousness isn't something we earn entirely on our own. Paul speaks of a 'crown of righteousness' that is laid up for him, indicating it's a reward prepared and given by God.
A Divine Award
The 'crown' here isn't just a symbol of victory, but a reward bestowed by 'the Lord, the righteous judge.' This righteousness is ultimately Christ's own perfect life lived on our behalf, and through faith, it's credited to us. It’s a gift made possible by God’s grace, not a wage earned by our limited efforts.
The reward isn't just for 'believers,' but for those who 'loved his appearing.' What does it truly mean to love Jesus' return?
Paul highlights a specific characteristic of those who will receive this crown: they have 'loved his appearing.' This isn't passive waiting; it's an active, eager anticipation of Jesus’ return.
Eager Expectation
To love His appearing means to cherish the thought of Jesus’ triumphant return, when He will set all things right, vanquish all evil, and usher in His eternal kingdom. It implies a deep longing for His presence and for the completion of His redemptive work. This love for His appearing shapes our present lives, motivating us to live in a way that is pleasing to Him now, looking forward to the ultimate reunion.
Ask a follow-up
Understand the original words
stephanos · Greek Noun
A wreath or garland bestowed as a prize to a victor in the ancient games; metaphorically, it represents the eternal reward and honor given by Christ to faithful believers.
dikaiosynē · Greek Noun
The standard of moral perfection and rightness that is consistent with God's own character; in the context of the reward, it refers to the status of being justified before God.
epiphaneia · Greek Noun
The Second Coming of Jesus Christ, when He will appear in glory to judge the world and finalize the salvation of His people.
This passage speaks to the same idea of an imperishable crown for athletes who compete in a godly way, highlighting the eternal reward for faithfulness.
Hebrews 12:2It directly parallels Paul's focus on 'the crown' by describing Jesus as the 'pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross.' This shows the 'appearing' believers love is rooted in Christ's victory.
Titus 2:13This verse echoes the anticipation of Christ's return, calling believers to live 'while we wait for the hope of the blessed coming of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ,' aligning with the 'loving his appearing' mentioned by Paul.
1 Peter 1:13Peter urges believers to 'prepare your minds for action, and be sober-minded,' because they are awaiting their inheritance. This emphasizes the readiness and focused hope in Christ's return that Paul also commends.
Paul isn't just talking about a reward for his suffering; he's anticipating a prize that comes from God's righteousness, which will be fully revealed and given on the last day. This crown isn't earned by Paul's own good deeds, but is a gift for those who have eagerly awaited and loved Christ's return. It's a reminder that our hope for heavenly reward is deeply connected to God's own justice and faithfulness.
Paul is writing this letter from prison, facing his impending death with remarkable peace and confidence in God. He's just encouraged Timothy to persevere in the face of suffering and to preach the Word faithfully, knowing that difficult times are coming but that God's truth endures. In this verse, Paul looks beyond his present circumstances to the ultimate reward awaiting all who faithfully love Christ and long for his return.
Paul is writing this letter from prison, facing his impending death with remarkable peace and confidence in God. He's just encouraged Timothy to persevere in the face of suffering and to preach the Word faithfully, knowing that difficult times are coming but that God's truth endures. In this verse, Paul looks beyond his present circumstances to the ultimate reward awaiting all who faithfully love Christ and long for his return.
"Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing." — Paul isn't just talking about a reward for his suffering; he's anticipating a prize that comes from God's righteousness, which will be fully revealed and given on the last day. This crown isn't ear…
Get the original Greek and Hebrew, verse-by-verse context, and related passages inside the app.
Last reviewed October 2026