2 Timothy 2:5

5 In the same way, anyone who takes part in a sport doesn't receive the winner's crown unless he plays by 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 Like a good soldier of Christ Jesus, share in the hard times with us.

4 A soldier does not take part in things that don't have anything to do with the army. He wants to please his commanding officer.

5 In the same way, anyone who takes part in a sport doesn't receive the winner's crown unless he plays by the rules.

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

7 Think about what I'm saying. The Lord will help you understand what all of it means.