2 Timothy 2:5

5 And also if anyone competes he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules.

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 Suffer together with [me] as a good soldier of Christ Jesus.

4 No one who serves as a soldier is entangled in the activities of [everyday] life, so that he may please the one who enlisted [him].

5 And also if anyone competes he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules.

6 The farmer who works hard must [be] the first to receive a share of the crops.

7 Consider what I am saying, for the Lord will grant you understanding in all [these things].