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class="vheadingv"><b>Verse</b><a href="/bsb/2_timothy/2.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><span class="versiontext"><a href="/niv/2_timothy/2.htm">New International Version</a></span><br />Similarly, anyone who competes as an athlete does not receive the victor&#8217s crown except by competing according to the rules.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/2_timothy/2.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />And athletes cannot win the prize unless they follow the rules.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/2_timothy/2.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />An athlete is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/2_timothy/2.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />Likewise, a competitor does not receive the crown unless he competes according to the rules.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/blb/2_timothy/2.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a></span><br />Now also, if anyone competes, he is not crowned unless he shall have competed lawfully.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/2_timothy/2.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />And if a man also strive for masteries, <i>yet</i> is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/2_timothy/2.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />And also if anyone competes in athletics, he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/2_timothy/2.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />And if someone likewise competes as an athlete, he is not crowned <i>as victor</i> unless he competes according to the rules.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/2_timothy/2.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />Also if anyone competes as an athlete, he does not win the prize unless he competes according to the rules.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/2_timothy/2.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />And also if anyone competes as an athlete, he does not win the prize unless he competes according to the rules.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/2_timothy/2.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />And also if anyone competes as an athlete, he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/2_timothy/2.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />And if anyone competes as an athlete [in competitive games], he is not crowned [with the wreath of victory] unless he competes according to the rules.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/2_timothy/2.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />Also, if anyone competes as an athlete, he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/2_timothy/2.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />Also, if anyone competes as an athlete, he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/2_timothy/2.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />And if also a man contend in the games, he is not crowned, except he have contended lawfully.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/2_timothy/2.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />No one wins an athletic contest without obeying the rules. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/2_timothy/2.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />And if also a man contend in the games, he is not crowned, except he have contended lawfully.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/2_timothy/2.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />Whoever enters an athletic competition wins the prize only when playing by the rules.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/2_timothy/2.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />An athlete who runs in a race cannot win the prize unless he obeys the rules. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/2_timothy/2.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />Moreover, no one who is an athlete wins a prize unless he competes according to the rules. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/2_timothy/2.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />Likewise, a competitor does not receive the crown unless he competes according to the rules.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/2_timothy/2.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />Also, if anyone competes as an athlete, he will not be crowned as the winner unless he competes according to the rules.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/2_timothy/2.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />Also, if anyone competes in athletics, he is not crowned unless he has competed by the rules.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/2_timothy/2.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />And if a man also striveth for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he striveth lawfully.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wey/2_timothy/2.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a></span><br />And if any one takes part in an athletic contest, he gets no prize unless he obeys the rules.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/2_timothy/2.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />Also, if anyone competes in athletics, he isn’t crowned unless he has competed by the rules. <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/2_timothy/2.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />and if anyone also may strive, he is not crowned, except he may strive lawfully;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/blb/2_timothy/2.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a></span><br />Now also, if anyone competes, he is not crowned unless he shall have competed lawfully.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/2_timothy/2.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> and if also any one may strive, he is not crowned, except he may strive lawfully;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/2_timothy/2.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />And also if any contend for a prize, he is not crowned, except he contend for a prize lawfully.<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/2_timothy/2.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />For he also that striveth for the mastery, is not crowned, except he strive lawfully. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/2_timothy/2.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br />Then, too, whoever strives in a competition is not crowned, unless he has competed lawfully.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/2_timothy/2.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />Similarly, an athlete cannot receive the winner’s crown except by competing according to the rules.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/2_timothy/2.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />And in the case of an athlete, no one is crowned without competing according to the rules.<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/2_timothy/2.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />And if a man also strive for mastery in contest, he is not crowned except he compete lawfully.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/aramaic-plain-english/2_timothy/2.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a></span><br />And if a man competes, he is not crowned if he does not compete by the rules.<div class="vheading2"><b>NT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/anderson/2_timothy/2.htm">Anderson New Testament</a></span><br />And if any one also contend in the public games, he is not crowned, unless he contend according to the laws.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/godbey/2_timothy/2.htm">Godbey New Testament</a></span><br />But if indeed any one may fight, he is not crowned unless he may fight lawfully.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/haweis/2_timothy/2.htm">Haweis New Testament</a></span><br />And if a man contend in the public games, he is not crowned victor, unless he contend according to the laws.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/mace/2_timothy/2.htm">Mace New Testament</a></span><br />a combatant does not receive the crown, unless he has observ'd the laws of the games.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wey/2_timothy/2.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a></span><br />And if any one takes part in an athletic contest, he gets no prize unless he obeys the rules.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/worrell/2_timothy/2.htm">Worrell New Testament</a></span><br />And, if also one contends in the games, he is not crowned, unless he contends lawfully.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/worsley/2_timothy/2.htm">Worsley New Testament</a></span><br />And if any one contend <i>in the public games,</i> he gains not the crown unless he contend fairly.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/2_timothy/2-5.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></span></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv"><b>Audio Bible</b></div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FxoCLii8Z48?start=211" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><div class="vheadingv"><b>Context</b></div><span class="hdg"><a href="/bsb/2_timothy/2.htm">Grace and Perseverance</a></span><br>…<span class="reftext">4</span>A soldier refrains from entangling himself in civilian affairs, in order to please the one who enlisted him. <span class="reftext">5</span><span class="highl"><a href="/greek/1161.htm" title="1161: de (Conj) -- A primary particle; but, and, etc.">Likewise,</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. "></a> <a href="/greek/1437.htm" title="1437: ean (Conj) -- If. From ei and an; a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc."></a> <a href="/greek/5100.htm" title="5100: tis (IPro-NMS) -- Any one, some one, a certain one or thing. An enclitic indefinite pronoun; some or any person or object.">a</a> <a href="/greek/118.htm" title="118: athlē (V-PSA-3S) -- To engage, compete, in an (athletic) contest. From athlos; to contend in the competitive games.">competitor</a> <a href="/greek/3756.htm" title="3756: ou (Adv) -- No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not."></a> <a href="/greek/4737.htm" title="4737: stephanoutai (V-PIM/P-3S) -- To crown, adorn, decorate. From stephanos; to adorn with an honorary wreath.">does not receive the crown</a> <a href="/greek/1437.htm" title="1437: ean (Conj) -- If. From ei and an; a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.">unless</a> <a href="/greek/3361.htm" title="3361: mē (Adv) -- Not, lest. A primary particle of qualified negation; not, lest; also (whereas ou expects an affirmative one) whether."></a> <a href="/greek/118.htm" title="118: athlēsē (V-ASA-3S) -- To engage, compete, in an (athletic) contest. From athlos; to contend in the competitive games.">he competes</a> <a href="/greek/3545.htm" title="3545: nomimōs (Adv) -- Lawfully, rightfully. Adverb from a derivative of nomos; legitimately.">according to the rules.</a> </span> <span class="reftext">6</span>The hardworking farmer should be the first to partake of the crops.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_corinthians/9-24.htm">1 Corinthians 9:24-27</a></span><br />Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way as to take the prize. / Everyone who competes in the games trains with strict discipline. They do it for a crown that is perishable, but we do it for a crown that is imperishable. / Therefore I do not run aimlessly; I do not fight like I am beating the air. ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/philippians/3-14.htm">Philippians 3:14</a></span><br />I press on toward the goal to win the prize of God’s heavenly calling in Christ Jesus.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/hebrews/12-1.htm">Hebrews 12:1-2</a></span><br />Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off every encumbrance and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with endurance the race set out for us. / Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_timothy/6-12.htm">1 Timothy 6:12</a></span><br />Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made the good confession before many witnesses.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/james/1-12.htm">James 1:12</a></span><br />Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_peter/5-4.htm">1 Peter 5:4</a></span><br />And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/galatians/5-7.htm">Galatians 5:7</a></span><br />You were running so well. Who has obstructed you from obeying the truth?<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_corinthians/3-10.htm">1 Corinthians 3:10-15</a></span><br />By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as an expert builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one must be careful how he builds. / For no one can lay a foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. / If anyone builds on this foundation using gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, or straw, ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/revelation/3-11.htm">Revelation 3:11</a></span><br />I am coming soon. Hold fast to what you have, so that no one will take your crown.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/25-21.htm">Matthew 25:21</a></span><br />His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Enter into the joy of your master!’<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/romans/2-7.htm">Romans 2:7</a></span><br />To those who by perseverance in doing good seek glory, honor, and immortality, He will give eternal life.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/colossians/3-23.htm">Colossians 3:23-24</a></span><br />Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, as for the Lord and not for men, / because you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as your reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_john/2-28.htm">1 John 2:28</a></span><br />And now, little children, remain in Christ, so that when He appears, we may be confident and unashamed before Him at His coming.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/luke/13-24.htm">Luke 13:24</a></span><br />“Make every effort to enter through the narrow door. For many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/4-7.htm">Proverbs 4:7-9</a></span><br />Wisdom is supreme; so acquire wisdom. And whatever you may acquire, gain understanding. / Prize her, and she will exalt you; if you embrace her, she will honor you. / She will set a garland of grace on your head; she will present you with a crown of beauty.”</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully.</p><p class="hdg">strive.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/luke/13-24.htm">Luke 13:24</a></b></br> Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/1_corinthians/9-24.htm">1 Corinthians 9:24-27</a></b></br> Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain… </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/philippians/1-15.htm">Philippians 1:15</a></b></br> Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife; and some also of good will:</p><p class="hdg">is he.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/2_timothy/4-7.htm">2 Timothy 4:7,8</a></b></br> I have fought a good fight, I have finished <i>my</i> course, I have kept the faith: … </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/hebrews/2-7.htm">Hebrews 2:7,9</a></b></br> Thou madest him a little lower than the angels; thou crownedst him with glory and honour, and didst set him over the works of thy hands: … </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/james/1-12.htm">James 1:12</a></b></br> Blessed <i>is</i> the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.</p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/1_corinthians/9-25.htm">Athlete</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/9-25.htm">Athletic</a> <a href="/philippians/1-17.htm">Competition</a> <a href="/matthew/12-19.htm">Contend</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/9-25.htm">Contest</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-19.htm">Crown</a> <a href="/ephesians/1-3.htm">Crowned</a> <a href="/1_timothy/5-19.htm">Except</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/9-25.htm">Games</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-4.htm">Gets</a> <a href="/romans/2-27.htm">Obeys</a> <a href="/1_timothy/6-18.htm">Part</a> <a href="/colossians/2-18.htm">Prize</a> <a href="/1_timothy/5-19.htm">Receive</a> <a href="/1_timothy/5-21.htm">Rules</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/7-22.htm">Similarly</a> <a href="/1_timothy/6-12.htm">Strive</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/9-25.htm">Striveth</a> <a href="/1_timothy/5-19.htm">Unless</a> <a href="/revelation/6-2.htm">Victor's</a> <a href="/colossians/3-22.htm">Win</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/1_corinthians/9-25.htm">Athlete</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/9-25.htm">Athletic</a> <a href="/leviticus/18-18.htm">Competition</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-14.htm">Contend</a> <a href="/2_timothy/4-7.htm">Contest</a> <a href="/2_timothy/4-8.htm">Crown</a> <a href="/hebrews/2-7.htm">Crowned</a> <a href="/hebrews/3-18.htm">Except</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/9-25.htm">Games</a> <a href="/hebrews/7-7.htm">Gets</a> <a href="/1_john/2-5.htm">Obeys</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-16.htm">Part</a> <a href="/hebrews/12-2.htm">Prize</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-6.htm">Receive</a> <a href="/titus/1-14.htm">Rules</a> <a href="/titus/2-6.htm">Similarly</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-14.htm">Strive</a> <a href="/genesis/31-36.htm">Striveth</a> <a href="/revelation/2-5.htm">Unless</a> <a href="/james/1-12.htm">Victor's</a> <a href="/2_john/1-8.htm">Win</a><div class="vheading2">2 Timothy 2</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_timothy/2-1.htm">Timothy is exhorted again to constancy and perseverance.</a></span><br><span class="reftext">17. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_timothy/2-17.htm">Of Hymenaeus and Philetus.</a></span><br><span class="reftext">19. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_timothy/2-19.htm">The foundation of the Lord is sure.</a></span><br><span class="reftext">22. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_timothy/2-22.htm">He is taught whereof to beware, and what to follow after.</a></span><br></div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div><br /><br /> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> <br /><br /> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/2_timothy/2.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/2_timothy/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/2_timothy/2.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div><b>Likewise, a competitor</b><br>In the context of 2 Timothy, Paul uses the metaphor of an athlete to illustrate the Christian life. The term "competitor" suggests discipline, dedication, and a goal-oriented mindset. In the Greco-Roman world, athletic competitions were highly esteemed, and athletes were respected figures. This metaphor would resonate with Timothy, as Ephesus, where Timothy was based, was a city familiar with such games.<p><b>does not receive the crown</b><br>The "crown" refers to the victor's wreath awarded to winners in ancient athletic contests, such as the Isthmian or Olympic Games. This crown symbolizes eternal rewards and the ultimate prize of salvation and eternal life. In <a href="/1_corinthians/9-25.htm">1 Corinthians 9:25</a>, Paul also speaks of an imperishable crown, contrasting it with the temporary nature of earthly rewards.<p><b>unless he competes according to the rules</b><br>This phrase emphasizes the importance of adhering to the established guidelines, both in athletic contests and in the Christian faith. In the historical context, athletes had to undergo rigorous training and follow strict rules to qualify for competition. Similarly, Christians are called to live according to God's commandments and teachings. This is echoed in passages like <a href="/1_corinthians/9-24.htm">1 Corinthians 9:24-27</a>, where Paul discusses self-discipline and the need to run the race with purpose. The rules represent God's law and the teachings of Christ, which guide believers in their spiritual journey.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/p/paul.htm">Paul</a></b><br>- The apostle who authored the letter to Timothy, providing guidance and encouragement to his young protégé in the faith.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/t/timothy.htm">Timothy</a></b><br>- A young pastor and close companion of Paul, who is the recipient of this letter. Timothy is being instructed on how to lead and maintain his faith amidst challenges.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/a/athletic_competitions.htm">Athletic Competitions</a></b><br>- The metaphor used by Paul, drawing from the familiar context of Greek athletic games, which were well-known in the Roman Empire.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/t/the_importance_of_obedience.htm">The Importance of Obedience</a></b><br>Just as athletes must follow the rules to win, Christians must adhere to God's commandments to receive the eternal reward. Obedience to God's Word is crucial in our spiritual journey.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/d/discipline_and_self-control.htm">Discipline and Self-Control</a></b><br>The Christian life requires discipline, much like an athlete training for a competition. We must exercise self-control in our daily lives to grow in holiness and faithfulness.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/f/focus_on_the_eternal_prize.htm">Focus on the Eternal Prize</a></b><br>Our ultimate goal is not earthly success but the eternal crown of life. Keeping our eyes on this prize helps us endure trials and remain steadfast in our faith.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/i/integrity_in_ministry.htm">Integrity in Ministry</a></b><br>For those in leadership, like Timothy, it is essential to lead with integrity, ensuring that one's actions align with the teachings of Christ.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/p/perseverance_in_faith.htm">Perseverance in Faith</a></b><br>Challenges and obstacles are part of the Christian journey. Perseverance, much like an athlete enduring rigorous training, is necessary to finish the race set before us.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_2_timothy_2.htm">Top 10 Lessons from 2 Timothy 2</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_does_the_bible_say_on_competition.htm">What does the Bible teach about healthy competition?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_is_christian_sportsmanship_in_the_bible.htm">What does the Bible say about Christian sportsmanship?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/who_are_the_24_elders_in_revelation.htm">Who are the 24 Elders in Revelation?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/how_does_2_samuel_5_align_with_archaeology.htm">How can 2 Samuel 5's claim of unanimous tribal support (5:1-3) be reconciled with limited archaeological evidence for widespread recognition of David's rule?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/2_timothy/2.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(5) <span class= "bld">And if a man also strive for masteries.</span>--More accurately translated, <span class= "ital">again, if a man strive in the games.</span> Another picture is drawn, and the picture is, as before, a well-known one to all the dwellers in the great cities of the empire. An athlete is chosen to represent the professed servant of Christ, one of those who, after long and careful training, contends in the public games, then so popular, so entirely a part of the life of every city--in the games of wrestling or running, or in the chariot-racing, or in the hand-to-hand contests. Again, this one--as in the case of the soldier--if he aspired to victory and success, must "endure hardness."<p><span class= "bld">Except he strive lawfully.</span>--"Lawfully"--<span class= "ital">i.e.</span> according to the prescribed conditions of the contest. He must, of course, submit himself to the strict rules of the theatre where the games are held, and (for this is also included in the "lawfully") must besides--if he hopes for a prize--go through all the long and severe training and discipline necessary before engaging in such a contest. Galen uses the same phrase, in the sense of complying with the recognised rules of training as regarding diet.<p><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/2_timothy/2.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 5.</span> - <span class="accented">Also a man</span> for <span class="accented">a man also</span>, A.V.; <span class="accented">contend in the games</span> for <span class="accented">strive for masteries</span>, A.V.; <span class="accented">he is not</span> for <span class="accented">yet is he not</span>, A.V.; <span class="accented">have contended</span> for <span class="accented">strive</span>, A.V. Contend in the games (<span class="greek">ἀθλῇ</span>); only here in the New Testament, and not found in the LXX., but common in classical Greek. It means "to contend for <span class="greek">ἄθλον</span> the prize, to be an "athlete." This is also the meaning of the A.V. "strive for masteries." "To strive," means properly to contend with an antagonist, and "mastery" is an old English word for "superiority," "victory," or the like. Dryden has "mastership" in the same sense - <p><span class="accented">"When noble youths for mastership should strive,<br />To quoit, to run, and steeds and chariots drive."</span><br /><br />(<span class="note_acc">Ovid., 'Met,' bk. 1.</span>) <span class="cmt_word">Lawfully</span> (<span class="greek">νομίμως</span>, as <a href="/1_timothy/1-8.htm">1 Timothy 1:8</a>); according to the laws and usages of the games. So Timothy must conform to the laws of the Christian warfare, and not shrink from afflictions, if he would gain the great Christian prize. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/2_timothy/2-5.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a></span><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div><span class="word">Likewise,</span><br /><span class="grk">δὲ</span> <span class="translit">(de)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunction<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_1161.htm">Strong's 1161: </a> </span><span class="str2">A primary particle; but, and, etc.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">a</span><br /><span class="grk">τις</span> <span class="translit">(tis)</span><br /><span class="parse">Interrogative / Indefinite Pronoun - Nominative Masculine Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_5100.htm">Strong's 5100: </a> </span><span class="str2">Any one, some one, a certain one or thing. An enclitic indefinite pronoun; some or any person or object.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">contender</span><br /><span class="grk">ἀθλῇ</span> <span class="translit">(athlē)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Present Subjunctive Active - 3rd Person Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_118.htm">Strong's 118: </a> </span><span class="str2">To engage, compete, in an (athletic) contest. From athlos; to contend in the competitive games.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">does not receive the crown</span><br /><span class="grk">στεφανοῦται</span> <span class="translit">(stephanoutai)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Present Indicative Middle or Passive - 3rd Person Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_4737.htm">Strong's 4737: </a> </span><span class="str2">To crown, adorn, decorate. From stephanos; to adorn with an honorary wreath.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">unless</span><br /><span class="grk">ἐὰν</span> <span class="translit">(ean)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunction<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_1437.htm">Strong's 1437: </a> </span><span class="str2">If. From ei and an; a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">he competes</span><br /><span class="grk">ἀθλήσῃ</span> <span class="translit">(athlēsē)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Aorist Subjunctive Active - 3rd Person Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_118.htm">Strong's 118: </a> </span><span class="str2">To engage, compete, in an (athletic) contest. From athlos; to contend in the competitive games.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">according to the rules.</span><br /><span class="grk">νομίμως</span> <span class="translit">(nomimōs)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adverb<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_3545.htm">Strong's 3545: </a> </span><span class="str2">Lawfully, rightfully. Adverb from a derivative of nomos; legitimately.</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/2_timothy/2-5.htm">2 Timothy 2:5 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/2_timothy/2-5.htm">2 Timothy 2:5 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/2_timothy/2-5.htm">2 Timothy 2:5 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/2_timothy/2-5.htm">2 Timothy 2:5 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/2_timothy/2-5.htm">2 Timothy 2:5 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/2_timothy/2-5.htm">2 Timothy 2:5 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/2_timothy/2-5.htm">2 Timothy 2:5 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/2_timothy/2-5.htm">2 Timothy 2:5 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/2_timothy/2-5.htm">2 Timothy 2:5 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/2_timothy/2-5.htm">2 Timothy 2:5 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/2_timothy/2-5.htm">NT Letters: 2 Timothy 2:5 Also if anyone competes in athletics he (2 Tim. 2Ti iiTi ii Tim) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/2_timothy/2-4.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="2 Timothy 2:4"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="2 Timothy 2:4" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/2_timothy/2-6.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="2 Timothy 2:6"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="2 Timothy 2:6" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>