2 Timothy 2:5
And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully.
Original Language Analysis
ἐὰν
if
G1437
ἐὰν
if
Strong's:
G1437
Word #:
1 of 11
a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.; often used in connection with other particles to denote indefiniteness or uncertainty
καὶ
also
G2532
καὶ
also
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
3 of 11
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
στεφανοῦται
crowned
G4737
στεφανοῦται
crowned
Strong's:
G4737
Word #:
7 of 11
to adorn with an honorary wreath (literally or figuratively)
ἐὰν
if
G1437
ἐὰν
if
Strong's:
G1437
Word #:
8 of 11
a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.; often used in connection with other particles to denote indefiniteness or uncertainty
μὴ
G3361
μὴ
Strong's:
G3361
Word #:
9 of 11
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
Cross References
Revelation 3:11Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.Colossians 1:29Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.James 1:12Blessed is 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.Hebrews 12:4Ye have not yet resisted unto blood, striving against sin.Luke 13:24Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.Revelation 2:10Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.Hebrews 2:9But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man.Hebrews 2:7Thou 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:Philippians 1:15Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife; and some also of good will:1 Peter 5:4And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.
Historical Context
Greek athletic competitions were central to Hellenistic culture. The Olympic Games dated to 776 BC; the Isthmian Games near Corinth occurred biennially. Athletes trained for ten months under strict supervision before competing. Rules governed everything: training regimens, diet, competition procedures, conduct. Judges (hellanodikai) enforced rules rigorously. Violations resulted in disqualification, public shame, and sometimes fines. Winners received wreaths, public honor, free meals, and exemption from taxes.
Questions for Reflection
- In what areas of Christian service might you be pursuing results through methods that 'work' pragmatically but violate biblical principles?
- How carefully do you study Scripture to ensure your ministry methods align with God's revealed standards rather than contemporary church culture?
- Are you more motivated by visible success and human approval or by faithful obedience that may go unnoticed until Christ's return?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully. Paul shifts from military to athletic metaphor. "Strive for masteries" (athlē, ἀθλῇ) refers to competing in athletic contests—the verb gives us "athlete." Ancient athletic competitions, especially the Olympic and Isthmian games, were immensely popular. "Crowned" (stephanoutai, στεφανοῦται) refers to the victor's wreath (stephanos, στέφανος)—laurel, olive, or pine branches awarded to winners.
The critical condition is "except he strive lawfully" (ean mē nomimōs athlēsē, ἐὰν μὴ νομίμως ἀθλήσῃ). The adverb nomimōs (νομίμως) means "according to the rules, legitimately." Ancient games had strict rules governing training, competition procedures, and conduct. Athletes who cheated, took shortcuts, or violated regulations were disqualified regardless of performance. Winners had to compete according to established standards.
Applied to Christian ministry, this teaches that faithfulness to divine standards matters as much as results. God rewards not merely activity but obedience—ministry conducted according to Scripture's guidelines. Pragmatic methods that "work" but violate biblical principles disqualify servants from reward.