What does 'godspeed' mean? What is the definition of 'godspeed' / 'God speed'?

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

The origins of the phrase godspeed meant to wish someone success, or a wish that God would prosper someone. It comes from the Middle English "God speid", or "God spede you" from the 15th century. It was used to bless someone starting a journey or some special endeavor. In 2 John 1:10–11, the King James Version uniquely uses the term "God speed" to caution believers against wishing success or blessing on false teachers. John emphasizes that offering such support makes one complicit in their deceptive deeds. The Bible instead calls believers to support those who faithfully teach sound doctrine and to gently correct those in error.

FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT

• The word godspeed is not found in the Old Testament.

FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT

• The words "God speed" are found only in the King James Version of the Bible and are only found in 2 John 1:10–11: "If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed: For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds." Here John says we should not wish a false teacher of the gospel a certain success or blessing brought by God.

IMPLICATIONS FOR TODAY

Reflecting on 2 John 1:10–11, we learn the importance of carefully considering to whom we extend our support and blessings. We should not wish success on those who spread false teachings; to wish them “God speed” is to risk becoming complicit in their harmful actions. In our lives, this means being mindful and discerning about the people and causes we endorse, ensuring they align with true biblical principles. This passage challenges us to uphold the purity of the gospel by not encouraging those who deviate from its teachings, thus protecting our own spiritual integrity and the integrity of the Christian community. Instead of supporting false teachers, the Bible instructs us to support those who faithfully teach sound doctrine (1 Timothy 5:17) and to gently correct those in error (2 Timothy 2:24–25).

UNDERSTAND

• Godspeed originates from the 15th-century Middle English "God speid," meaning to wish someone success or God's prosperity.
• In 2 John 1:10–11, the King James Version uses God speed to caution against blessing false teachers.
• 2 John 1:10-11 urges discernment in supporting only those who uphold sound biblical doctrine.

REFLECT

• How can you grow your ability to discern between true and false teachings in your spiritual journey?
• Have you ever unintentionally supported beliefs or practices that do not align with biblical principles? How can you ensure your support is grounded in sound doctrine?
• What steps can you take to actively support and encourage those who teach sound biblical doctrine, while gently correcting errors when necessary?

ENGAGE

• Spede, or speid, is not about swiftness, but prosperity. It is similar in nature to saying goodbye—which originated with "God be with ye" in English. In French, the salutation adieu, and in Spanish adios, also have connections with God, both originally meaning "I commend you to God."
• How can our communities approach the challenge of identifying and addressing false teachings?
• When confronted with conflicting beliefs or teachings, how can we engage in respectful dialogue while upholding the integrity of biblical doctrine?