John Calvin Commentary 2 Timothy 1:18

"(the Lord grant unto him to find mercy of the Lord in that day); and in how many things he ministered at Ephesus, thou knowest very well." — 2 Timothy 1:18 (ASV)

May the Lord grant to him. Some explain it as follows— “May God grant to him that he may find mercy with Christ the Judge.” And indeed, this is somewhat more tolerable than to interpret that passage in the writings of Moses:

The Lord rained fire from the Lord, (Genesis 19:24),

as meaning— “The Father rained from the Son.” Yet it is possible that strong feeling may have prompted Paul, as often happens, to make a superfluous repetition.

That he may find mercy with the Lord on that day. This prayer shows us how much richer a recompense awaits those who, without the expectation of an earthly reward, perform acts of kindness to the saints, than if they received it immediately from the hands of men.

And what does he pray for? That he may find mercy; for he who has been merciful to his neighbors will receive such mercy from God for himself.

If this promise does not powerfully animate and encourage us to the exercise of kindness, we are worse than stupid.

Hence it also follows that when God rewards us, it is not on account of our merits or of any excellence that is in us; but the best and most valuable reward He bestows upon us is when He pardons us and shows Himself to be, not a stern judge, but a kind and indulgent Father.