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What the Fathers say

2 Timothy 4:14

Eastern Fathers

John Chrysostom

"Alexander the coppersmith did me much evil; the Lord reward him according to his works." Here he again makes mention of his trial, not wishing merely to censure and accuse the man, but to prepare his disciple for the conflicts, that he might bear them firmly. Though they be mean and contemptible persons, and without honor, who cause these trials, they ought all, he says, to be borne with fortitude. For he who suffers wrong from any great personage, receives no little distinction from the superiority of him who does the wrong. …

Homily on 2 Timothy 10 ↗

Theophylact of Ohrid

The Apostle recalls this temptation not in order to reproach that man, but to persuade his disciple to courageously endure temptations from worthless and contemptible people. Many, when subjected to insults from prominent people, bear them, finding consolation in the high position of their offenders. But to suffer from worthless and rejected people causes greater sorrow. Therefore Paul also says: "he did me much evil," meaning: he caused me to suffer greatly and in various ways. …

Commentary on 2 Timothy ↗

Oecumenius

Alexander the coppersmith did me much harm; the Lord will repay him according to his deeds. Beware of him yourself, for he strongly opposed our words. Paul also showed Timothy to endure bravely the troubles from common people. For it is painful to be wronged, especially by common people. the Lord will repay him. …

Commentary On 2 Timothy ↗

Western Saints

Thomas Aquinas

Then when he says, "Alexander," he mentions those who had been with him and those who are with him: first, on the part of the men; second, on God's part, at "but the Lord stood by me and strengthened me." In regard to the first he does two things: first, he informs him about a person who harmed him; second, about the negligence of those who failed to help him, at "at my first answer, no man stood with me." In regard to the first he does three things: first, he proclaims the guilt of those who accused him wrongfully; second, he shows …

Commentary on 2 Timothy ↗