μισθαποδοσία (misthapodosia)
misthapodosia
recompense
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun misthapodosia refers to the payment of wages due, whether that payment is a reward for faithful service or a penalty for wrongdoing. Its components point directly to this dual nature: it combines the word for "wage" with a term meaning "to give back." In Scripture, this concept appears only three times, all within the New Testament book of Hebrews.
The text uses this single word to describe both divine blessing and judgment. In Hebrews 2:2, it denotes the serious punishment that follows disobedience to the law. Conversely, in Hebrews 10:35 and 11:26, it describes the great reward awaiting those who persevere in faith. The author uses this term to emphasize that God is just; He does not ignore human actions but ensures that every deed receives its proper due.
This word highlights the certainty of divine justice. Whether the outcome is punishment or reward, the principle remains the same: what is owed will be paid. It reminds readers that their spiritual journey has real consequences and that God faithfully accounts for all things.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word misthapodosia carries a simple but profound weight: it means receiving exactly what is due. It combines the idea of wages with the act of giving back, reminding us that God’s justice is precise. In Scripture, this term appears only three times in Hebrews, illustrating that divine accounting applies to both our failures and our faithfulness. It assures us that no action goes unnoticed by the One who created us.
For those walking in faith, this concept offers deep encouragement. Hebrews 10:35 and 11:26 show that perseverance yields a great reward, while Hebrews 2:2 warns that disobedience carries its own serious consequences. This dual nature highlights God’s fairness; He is not arbitrary but consistent. Your efforts to follow Christ are seen and will be met with His just and generous response.
Ultimately, this word points to a God who keeps His promises. Whether facing trials or celebrating victories, you can trust that He handles every situation with perfect equity. This certainty allows us to rest in His character, knowing that He honors those who seek Him and addresses all wrongs with righteousness. May you find peace in the knowledge that your spiritual labor is never in vain.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- reward.2×
- recompense,1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- μισθαποδοσίαν.¶1×
- μισθαποδοσίαν.1×
- μισθαποδοσίαν,1×
Key Verses
-
Hebrews 2:2
For if the word spoken through angels proved steadfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just penalty,
This occurrence establishes the baseline of divine justice by showing that even minor disobedience to the law received a just penalty, proving God does not ignore wrongdoing.
-
Hebrews 10:35
Therefore don’t throw away your boldness, which has a great reward.
Here the word encourages believers to hold onto their boldness because their faithful endurance has a significant and certain reward attached to it.
-
Hebrews 11:26
considering the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures of Egypt; for he looked to the reward.
This verse highlights how Moses valued the future recompense from God more than temporary earthly treasures, demonstrating that eternal rewards shape present choices.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does misthapodosia mean in the Bible?
Where does this word appear in Scripture?
How does this word relate to Christian hope?
Every Occurrence (3 verses across 1 books)
Hebrews 3 verses
For if the word spoken through angels proved steadfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just…
Hebrews 10:35Therefore don’t throw away your boldness, which has a great reward.
Hebrews 11:26considering the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures of Egypt; for he looked to the reward.