Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary 2 Timothy 4:14

"Alexander the coppersmith did me much evil: the Lord will render to him according to his works:" — 2 Timothy 4:14 (ASV)

We know nothing further about “Alexander,” who is called a “metalworker.” Alexander was a common name in the NT world. We do not know when, where, or in what way Alexander did Paul “a great deal of harm.” One good guess is that he had been responsible for the apostle’s arrest and imprisonment. Paul prophesies that the Lord Jesus “will repay” him. Paul warns Timothy to be on guard against this malicious enemy who “strongly opposed our message.” This opposition may have included not only Paul’s preaching but also his defense before the court (cf. v.16).