Only Luke is with me. Take Mark, and bring him with thee: for he is profitable to me for the ministry.

2 TIMOTHY 4:11KJV
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2 Timothy 4:11 (KJV)

What does 2 Timothy 4:11 mean?

2 Timothy 4:11 shows Paul, near the end of his life, telling Timothy that only Luke is with him and asking Timothy to bring Mark along because Mark is useful to Paul’s ministry. Paul is expressing both his need for companionship and his trust in Mark’s abilities to help with his work.

Paul is writing this letter from prison, likely in Rome, to Timothy, his close friend and fellow worker. Paul mentions that only Luke, the physician and companion, is present with him. By specifically requesting Mark—who earlier had a falling out with Paul—Paul shows that he now values Mark’s help and that their relationship has been restored. This verse highlights both Paul’s practical needs and the importance of reconciliation and teamwork in his ministry.

The Greek behind 2 Timothy 4:11

  • "Profitable" (εὔχρηστος, euchrēstos): This word means "useful" or "helpful." Paul is not just asking for Mark as a friend, but because Mark’s presence and skills are genuinely valuable for the ministry work Paul is doing.
  • "Ministry" (διακονία, diakonia): This term refers to service or practical help, not just preaching or teaching. Paul is likely thinking of all the ways Mark can assist, from caring for needs to supporting the mission.

Why 2 Timothy 4:11 matters

  • This verse clears up any idea that Paul held a permanent grudge against Mark; instead, Paul now sees Mark as a trusted coworker.
  • The verse emphasizes the importance of teamwork and practical support in ministry, not just leadership or public roles.
  • In the wider context, 2 Timothy 4:11 shows Paul’s vulnerability and humanity as he faces the end of his life, valuing both companionship and practical help.

Where else these words appear

“profitable” Greek G2173 · used in 3 verses

  • 2 Timothy 2:21 If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work.
  • Philemon 1:11 Which in time past was to thee unprofitable, but now profitable to thee and to me:

“Luke” Greek G3065 · used in 4 verses

  • 2 Corinthians 13:14 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen. The second epistle to the Corinthians was written from Philippi, a city of Macedonia, by Titus and Lucas.
  • Colossians 4:14 Luke, the beloved physician, and Demas, greet you.
  • Philemon 1:24 Marcus, Aristarchus, Demas, Lucas, my fellowlabourers.

“Mark” Greek G3138 · used in 8 verses

  • Acts 12:12 And when he had considered the thing, he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, whose surname was Mark; where many were gathered together praying.
  • Acts 15:37 And Barnabas determined to take with them John, whose surname was Mark.
  • Colossians 4:10 Aristarchus my fellowprisoner saluteth you, and Marcus, sister's son to Barnabas,(touching whom ye received commandments: if he come unto you, receive him;)

“Take” Greek G353 · used in 13 verses

  • Mark 16:19 So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God.
  • Acts 7:43 Yea, ye took up the tabernacle of Moloch, and the star of your god Remphan, figures which ye made to worship them: and I will carry you away beyond Babylon.
  • Acts 23:31 Then the soldiers, as it was commanded them, took Paul, and brought him by night to Antipatris.