2 Timothy 2:5

5 If also a man competes in the games, he is not crowned, unless he has competed 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 You therefore must endure hardship, as a good soldier of Christ Jesus.

4 No soldier on service entangles himself in the affairs of life, that he may please him who enrolled him as a soldier.

5 If also a man competes in the games, he is not crowned, unless he has competed by the rules.

6 The farmers who labor must be the first to get a share of the crops.

7 Consider what I say, and may the Lord give you understanding in all things.