And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.

2 TIMOTHY 2:26KJV
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2 Timothy 2:26 (KJV)

What does 2 Timothy 2:26 mean?

2 Timothy 2:26 describes people who have fallen into the trap of the devil, being held captive by him to do what he wants, but who can come to their senses and escape that trap. The verse highlights the hope that these people can recover themselves and break free from the devil’s control.

Paul is writing to Timothy, a young church leader, urging him to gently instruct those who oppose the truth so that, if God allows, they may realize their situation. The verse uses the image of a snare or trap to show how some people are caught by the devil’s influence, but it also stresses that recovery and freedom are possible if they come to understand the truth.

The Greek behind 2 Timothy 2:26

  • The word for "snare" is παγίς (pagis), which means a trap or a device for catching animals. This word paints a vivid picture of people being caught unexpectedly and unable to free themselves without help.
  • The phrase "taken captive" comes from ζωγρέω (zōgreō), which means to capture alive. This suggests not just being trapped, but being actively held under someone’s power, emphasizing the devil’s control.
  • The word for "will" is θέλημα (thelēma), meaning desire or purpose. The verse points out that those caught are not acting on their own will, but are being used for the devil’s purposes.

Why 2 Timothy 2:26 matters

  • This verse clarifies that being caught in the devil’s trap is not a permanent state; people can recover and escape, which offers hope rather than condemnation.
  • The imagery of a snare and being taken captive highlights the seriousness of spiritual deception, showing that it is not always obvious or intentional.
  • In the wider passage, Paul is encouraging Timothy to respond to opposition with patience and gentleness, trusting that God can bring about repentance and freedom for those who are trapped.

Where else these words appear

“captive” Greek G2221 · used in 2 verses

  • Luke 5:10 And so was also James, and John, the sons of Zebedee, which were partners with Simon. And Jesus said unto Simon, Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men.

“snare” Greek G3803 · used in 5 verses

  • Luke 21:35 For as a snare shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth.
  • Romans 11:9 And David saith, Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumblingblock, and a recompence unto them:
  • 1 Timothy 3:7 Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.

“devil” Greek G1228 · used in 36 verses

  • Matthew 4:1 Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil.
  • Luke 8:12 Those by the way side are they that hear; then cometh the devil, and taketh away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved.
  • Titus 2:3 The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things;

“will” Greek G2307 · used in 60 verses

  • Matthew 6:10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
  • Acts 13:22 And when he had removed him, he raised up unto them David to be their king; to whom also he gave testimony, and said, I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfil all my will.
  • Colossians 1:1 Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timotheus our brother,