2 Timothy 2:5

5 And also if anyone contends in public contest, he is not crowned, except he contends legitimately.

2 Timothy 2:5 Meaning and Commentary

2 Timothy 2:5

And if a man also strive for masteries
In the Olympic games, by running, wrestling, leaping

yet is he not crowned;
with a corruptible, fading crown, a crown made of herbs and leaves of trees, as parsley, laurel

except he strive lawfully;
according to the laws and rules fixed for those exercises; so no man that calls himself a Christian, minister, or any other, can expect the crown of life, the prize of the high calling of God, except he runs the race set before him, in the right way; looking to Christ, the mark, pressing through all difficulties, towards the prize, and holds on and out unto the end.

2 Timothy 2:5 In-Context

3 Thou, therefore, work hard as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.

4 No man that wars entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who has chosen him to be a soldier.

5 And also if anyone contends in public contest, he is not crowned, except he contends legitimately.

6 The husbandman, in order to receive the fruits, must first work hard.

7 Understand what I say, that the Lord shall give thee understanding in all things.