Paul used three more figures to describe his life as he reviewed it. The first two are athletic metaphors (cf. 2 Timothy 2:5) describing a boxer or wrestler and a runner (cf. Acts 20:24). The third is that of a faithful steward who has kept (guarded) his charge (cf. 1 Corinthians 4:2; Matthew 25:14-30; Luke 19:11-27). Another view is that the first figure is military, the second athletic, and the third religious. [1] A third view is that all three figures are athletic. [2] Paul had lived the Christian life and served the Lord as He had commanded. 2 Timothy 4:6-7 constitute Paul"s epitaph. [source][source][source]
Paul probably meant that he had run in the noblest race of all, namely, the ministry of the gospel, not that he had done his best in the contest. [3][source]
Context Summary
2 Timothy 4:1-12 - The Victor's Final Charge
To the end Paul held to the appearing of Jesus, though he might not live to see it; and it was to precede and usher in the coming of the Kingdom. The world of that time was sad and sick, and Paul's sole panacea was the preaching of the gospel. 2 Timothy 4:2, do not only take opportunities, but make them. 2 Timothy 4:3, make haste; such opportunities are closing in. Sound throughout these Pastoral Epistles means "healthy" and "health-giving." Note that striking phrase of the itching ears, which turn in every direction where they may obtain momentary relief. 2 Timothy 4:5, be on the alert! Fulfill, that is, work to the edge of your pattern.
With what pathetic words Paul refers to his approaching death! He regarded his life-blood as about to be poured out as a libation, 2 Timothy 4:6, r.v., margin. The time had come for him to go on board the good ship which was waiting in the offing to sail at sunset for its port of glory. He was a veteran who had fought valiantly and successfully-keeping the faith as in the old Roman story the heroes kept the bridge. But he was soon to be relieved. The crown at the end of the course was already in sight. He was lonely-only Luke is with me. He needed to be ministered unto-take Mark. But his courage was unabated. Demas might forsake, but Christ failed not. [source]
Chapter Summary: 2 Timothy 4
1He exhorts him to preach the Word with all care and diligence; 6certifies him of the nearness of his death; 9wills him to come speedily unto him, and to bring Marcus with him; 14warns him to beware of Alexander the metalworker 16informs him what had befallen him at his first answering; 19and soon after he concludes
Greek Commentary for 2 Timothy 4:7
I have fought the good fight [τον καλον αγωνα ηγωνισμαι] Perfect middle indicative of αγωνιζομαι agōnizomai a favourite figure with Paul (1 Corinthians 9:25; Colossians 1:29), with the cognate accusative αγωνα agōna (Philemon 1:27,Philemon 1:30, etc.). The “fight” is the athletic contest of his struggle for Christ. [source]
I have finished the course [τον δρομον τετελεκα] Perfect active indicative of τελεω teleō He had used this metaphor also of himself to the elders at Ephesus (Acts 20:24). Then the “course” was ahead of him. Now it is behind him. I have kept the faith (την πιστιν τετηρηκα tēn pistin tetērēka). Perfect active indicative again of τηρεω tēreō Paul has not deserted. He has kept faith with Christ. For this phrase, see note on Revelation 14:12. Deissmann (Light, etc., p. 309) gives inscriptions in Ephesus of a man who says: “I have kept faith” (την πιστιν ετηρησα tēn pistin etērēsa) and another of a man of whom it is said: “He fought three fights, and twice was crowned.” [source]
I have kept the faith [την πιστιν τετηρηκα] Perfect active indicative again of τηρεω tēreō Paul has not deserted. He has kept faith with Christ. For this phrase, see note on Revelation 14:12. Deissmann (Light, etc., p. 309) gives inscriptions in Ephesus of a man who says: “I have kept faith” (την πιστιν ετηρησα tēn pistin etērēsa) and another of a man of whom it is said: “He fought three fights, and twice was crowned.” [source]
Luke 13:24Strive [] Used only by Luke and Paul, except John 18:36. Originally to contend for a prize in the public games; and thus conveying a sense of struggle. The kindred noun, ἀγωνία , agony, is used of Christ's struggle in Gethsemane (Luke 22:44). Compare 1 Timothy 6:12; 2 Timothy 4:7. [source]
Acts 13:25As John was fulfilling his course [ως επληρου Ιωανης τον δρομον] Imperfect active of πληροω plēroō describing his vivid ministry without defining the precise period when John asked the question. Paul uses this word δρομος dromos (course) of his own race (Acts 20:24; 2 Timothy 4:7). [source]
Acts 20:24So that I may accomplish my course [ως τελειωσω δρομον μου] Rather, “In order that” (purpose, not result). Aleph and B read τελειωσω teleiōsō here (first aorist active subjunctive) rather than τελειωσαι teleiōsai (first aorist active infinitive). It is the lone instance in the N.T. of ως hōs as a final particle (Robertson, Grammar, p. 987). Paul in Acts 13:25 in his sermon at Antioch in Pisidia described John as fulfilling his course and in 2 Timothy 4:7 he will say: “I have finished my course” He will run the race to the end. Which I received from the Lord Jesus (ην ελαβον παρα του κυριου Ιησου hēn elabon para tou kuriou Iēsou). Of that fact he never had a doubt and it was a proud boast (Galatians 1:1; Romans 11:13). The gospel of the grace of God To Paul the gospel consisted in the grace of God. See this word “grace” (χαρις charis) in Romans and his other Epistles. [source]
1 Corinthians 9:25That striveth in the games [ο αγωνιζομενος] Common verb for contest in the athletic games (αγων agōn), sometimes with the cognate accusative, αγωνα αγωνιζομαι agōna agōnizomai as in 1 Timothy 6:12; 2 Timothy 4:7. Probably Paul often saw these athletic games. [source]
1 Corinthians 9:27And bring it into bondage [και δουλαγωγω] Late compound verb from δουλαγωγος doulagōgos in Diodorus Siculus, Epictetus and substantive in papyri. It is the metaphor of the victor leading the vanquished as captive and slave. Lest by any means (μη πως mē pōs). Common conjunction for negative purpose with subjunctive as here (γενωμαι genōmai second aorist middle). After that I have preached to others First aorist active participle of κηρυσσω kērussō (see note on 1 Corinthians 1:23), common verb to preach, from word κηρυχ kērux (herald) and that is probably the idea here. A κηρυχ kērux at the games announced the rules of the game and called out the competitors. So Paul is not merely a herald, but a competitor also. I myself should be rejected (αυτος αδοκιμος γενωμαι autos adokimos genōmai). Literally, “I myself should become rejected.” Αδοκιμος Adokimos is an old adjective used of metals, coin, soil (Hebrews 6:8) and in a moral sense only by Paul in N.T. (1 Corinthians 9:27; 2 Corinthians 13:5-7; Romans 1:28; Titus 1:16; 2 Timothy 3:8). It means not standing the test (δοκιμος dokimos from δοκιμαζω dokimazō). Paul means rejected for the prize, not for the entrance to the race. He will fail to win if he breaks the rules of the game (Matthew 7:22.). What is the prize before Paul? Is it that reward (μιστος misthos) of which he spoke in 1 Corinthians 9:18, his glorying of preaching a free gospel? So Edwards argues. Most writers take Paul to refer to the possibility of his rejection in his personal salvation at the end of the race. He does not claim absolute perfection (Philemon 3:12) and so he presses on. At the end he has serene confidence (2 Timothy 4:7) with the race run and won. It is a humbling thought for us all to see this wholesome fear instead of smug complacency in this greatest of all heralds of Christ. [source]
1 Corinthians 9:27After that I have preached to others [αλλοις κηρχας] First aorist active participle of κηρυσσω kērussō (see note on 1 Corinthians 1:23), common verb to preach, from word κηρυχ kērux (herald) and that is probably the idea here. A κηρυχ kērux at the games announced the rules of the game and called out the competitors. So Paul is not merely a herald, but a competitor also. I myself should be rejected (αυτος αδοκιμος γενωμαι autos adokimos genōmai). Literally, “I myself should become rejected.” Αδοκιμος Adokimos is an old adjective used of metals, coin, soil (Hebrews 6:8) and in a moral sense only by Paul in N.T. (1 Corinthians 9:27; 2 Corinthians 13:5-7; Romans 1:28; Titus 1:16; 2 Timothy 3:8). It means not standing the test (δοκιμος dokimos from δοκιμαζω dokimazō). Paul means rejected for the prize, not for the entrance to the race. He will fail to win if he breaks the rules of the game (Matthew 7:22.). What is the prize before Paul? Is it that reward (μιστος misthos) of which he spoke in 1 Corinthians 9:18, his glorying of preaching a free gospel? So Edwards argues. Most writers take Paul to refer to the possibility of his rejection in his personal salvation at the end of the race. He does not claim absolute perfection (Philemon 3:12) and so he presses on. At the end he has serene confidence (2 Timothy 4:7) with the race run and won. It is a humbling thought for us all to see this wholesome fear instead of smug complacency in this greatest of all heralds of Christ. [source]
1 Corinthians 9:27I myself should be rejected [αυτος αδοκιμος γενωμαι] Literally, “I myself should become rejected.” Αδοκιμος Adokimos is an old adjective used of metals, coin, soil (Hebrews 6:8) and in a moral sense only by Paul in N.T. (1 Corinthians 9:27; 2 Corinthians 13:5-7; Romans 1:28; Titus 1:16; 2 Timothy 3:8). It means not standing the test Paul means rejected for the prize, not for the entrance to the race. He will fail to win if he breaks the rules of the game (Matthew 7:22.). What is the prize before Paul? Is it that reward (μιστος misthos) of which he spoke in 1 Corinthians 9:18, his glorying of preaching a free gospel? So Edwards argues. Most writers take Paul to refer to the possibility of his rejection in his personal salvation at the end of the race. He does not claim absolute perfection (Philemon 3:12) and so he presses on. At the end he has serene confidence (2 Timothy 4:7) with the race run and won. It is a humbling thought for us all to see this wholesome fear instead of smug complacency in this greatest of all heralds of Christ. [source]
Colossians 1:29Striving [ἀγωνιζόμενος] From ἀγών originally an assembly, a place of assembly, especially for viewing the games. Hence the contest itself, the word being united with different adjectives indicating the character of the contest, as ἱππικός ofhorses; γυμνικός gymnastic μουσικός ofmusic; χάλκεος , where the prize is a brazen shield, etc. Generally, any struggle or trial. Hence the verb means to enter a contest, to contend, to struggle. The metaphor is a favorite one with Paul, and, with the exception of three instances (Luke 13:24; John 18:36; Hebrews 12:1), the words ἀγών contestand ἀγωνίζομαι tocontend are found only in his writings. See 1 Timothy 6:12; 2 Timothy 4:7; 1 Corinthians 9:25(note); 1 Thessalonians 2:2. [source]
2 Thessalonians 3:1Pray [προσευχεστε] Present middle, keep on praying. Note περι peri as in 1 Thessalonians 5:25. That the word of the Lord may run and be glorified (ινα ο λογος του κυριου τρεχηι και δοχαζηται hina ho logos tou kuriou trechēi kai doxazētai). Usual construction of ινα hina after προσευχομαι proseuchomai sub-final use, content and purpose combined. Note present subjunctive with both verbs rather than aorist, may keep on running and being glorified, two verbs joined together nowhere else in the N.T. Paul probably derived this metaphor from the stadium as in 1 Corinthians 9:24.; Galatians 2:2; Romans 9:16; Philemon 2:16; 2 Timothy 4:7. Lightfoot translates “may have a triumphant career.” On the word of the Lord see note on 1 Thessalonians 1:8. Paul recognizes the close relation between himself and the readers. He needs their prayers and sympathy and he rejoices in their reception of the word of the Lord already, even as also it is with you (κατως και προς υμας kathōs kai pros humas). “As it does in your case” (Frame). [source]
2 Thessalonians 3:1That the word of the Lord may run and be glorified [ινα ο λογος του κυριου τρεχηι και δοχαζηται] Usual construction of ινα hina after προσευχομαι proseuchomai sub-final use, content and purpose combined. Note present subjunctive with both verbs rather than aorist, may keep on running and being glorified, two verbs joined together nowhere else in the N.T. Paul probably derived this metaphor from the stadium as in 1 Corinthians 9:24.; Galatians 2:2; Romans 9:16; Philemon 2:16; 2 Timothy 4:7. Lightfoot translates “may have a triumphant career.” On the word of the Lord see note on 1 Thessalonians 1:8. Paul recognizes the close relation between himself and the readers. He needs their prayers and sympathy and he rejoices in their reception of the word of the Lord already, even as also it is with you “As it does in your case” (Frame). [source]
1 Timothy 6:12Fight the good fight [ἀγωνίζου τὸν καλὸν ἀγῶνα] A phrase peculiar to the Pastorals. Comp. 2 Timothy 4:7. Not necessarily a metaphor from the gymnasium or arena, although ἀγών contestwas applied originally to athletic struggles. But it is also used of any struggle, outward or inward. See Colossians 2:1; Colossians 4:12. [source]
2 Timothy 4:5Make full proof of thy ministry [τὴν διακονίαν σου πληροφόρησον] Better, fulfill or fully perform. In Pastorals only here and 2 Timothy 4:17. See on Luke 1:1. In lxx once, Ecclesiastes 8:11, is fully persuaded. Only in this passage in the active voice. Comp. πληρώσαντες τὴν διακονίαν havingfulfilled their ministration, Acts 12:25: ἐπλήρου τὸν δρόμον wasfulfilling his course, Acts 13:25, and τὸν δρόμον Ihave finished the course, 2 Timothy 4:7. For διακονίαν ministrysee on 1 Timothy 1:12. [source]
2 Timothy 2:5Strive for masteries [ἀθλῇ] N.T.oolxx. Paul uses ἀγωνίζεσθαι (see 1 Corinthians 9:25), which appears also in 1 Timothy 4:10; 1 Timothy 6:12; 2 Timothy 4:7. For masteries is superfluous. Rev. contend in the games; but the meaning of the verb is not limited to that. It may mean to contend in battle; and the preceding reference to the soldier would seem to suggest that meaning here. The allusion to crowning is not decisive in favor of the Rev. rendering. Among the Romans crowns were the highest distinction for service in war. The corona triumphalis of laurel was presented to a triumphant general; and the corona obsidionalis was awarded to a general by the army which he had saved from a siege or from a shameful capitulation. It was woven of grass which grew on the spot, and was also called corona graminea. The corona myrtea or ovatio, the crown of bay, was worn by the general who celebrated the lesser triumph or ovatio. The golden corona muralis, with embattled ornaments, was given for the storming of a wall; and the corona castrensis or vallaris, also of gold, and ornamented in imitation of palisades, was awarded to the soldier who first climbed the rampart of the enemy's camp. [source]
2 Timothy 1:4Being mindful of thy tears [μεμνημένος σου τῶν δακρύων] The verb, μιμνήσκεσθαι in Paul, only 1 Corinthians 11:2. In Pastorals only here. The words give the reason for the longing to see Timothy. The allusion is probably to the tears shed by Timothy at his parting from Paul. One is naturally reminded of the parting of Paul with the Ephesians elders at Miletus (Acts 20:17ff., see especially Acts 20:37). Holtzmann remarks that Paul's discourse on that occasion is related to this passage as program to performance. Bonds await the apostle (Acts 20:23), and Paul appears as a prisoner (2 Timothy 1:8). He must fulfill his course Acts 20:24); here he has fulfilled it (2 Timothy 4:7). He bids the overseers take heed to the flock, for false teachers will arise in the bosom of the church (Acts 20:29,Acts 20:30); these letters contain directions for the guidance of the flock, and denunciations of heretical teachers. [source]
What do the individual words in 2 Timothy 4:7 mean?
ThegoodfightI have foughtraceI have finishedthefaithI have kept
Parse: Noun, Accusative Feminine Singular
Root: πίστις
Sense: conviction of the truth of anything, belief; in the NT of a conviction or belief respecting man’s relationship to God and divine things, generally with the included idea of trust and holy fervour born of faith and joined with it.
Greek Commentary for 2 Timothy 4:7
Perfect middle indicative of αγωνιζομαι agōnizomai a favourite figure with Paul (1 Corinthians 9:25; Colossians 1:29), with the cognate accusative αγωνα agōna (Philemon 1:27, Philemon 1:30, etc.). The “fight” is the athletic contest of his struggle for Christ. [source]
Perfect active indicative of τελεω teleō He had used this metaphor also of himself to the elders at Ephesus (Acts 20:24). Then the “course” was ahead of him. Now it is behind him. I have kept the faith (την πιστιν τετηρηκα tēn pistin tetērēka). Perfect active indicative again of τηρεω tēreō Paul has not deserted. He has kept faith with Christ. For this phrase, see note on Revelation 14:12. Deissmann (Light, etc., p. 309) gives inscriptions in Ephesus of a man who says: “I have kept faith” (την πιστιν ετηρησα tēn pistin etērēsa) and another of a man of whom it is said: “He fought three fights, and twice was crowned.” [source]
Perfect active indicative again of τηρεω tēreō Paul has not deserted. He has kept faith with Christ. For this phrase, see note on Revelation 14:12. Deissmann (Light, etc., p. 309) gives inscriptions in Ephesus of a man who says: “I have kept faith” (την πιστιν ετηρησα tēn pistin etērēsa) and another of a man of whom it is said: “He fought three fights, and twice was crowned.” [source]
For a good fight rend. the good fight. For the phrase, see on 1 Timothy 6:12. Comp. Philemon 1:27, Philemon 1:30; 1 Corinthians 9:25; Colossians 2:1; 1 Thessalonians 2:2; Ephesians 6:11ff. [source]
Metaphor from the race-course. Only here and Philemon 3:12-14; Acts 20:24; comp. 1 Corinthians 9:24; Galatians 2:2; Galatians 5:7; Romans 9:16; Philemon 2:16; Acts 13:25. [source]
The phrase N.T.oFor τηρεῖν tokeep, see on 1 Timothy 5:22; see on 1 Timothy 6:14. [source]
Reverse Greek Commentary Search for 2 Timothy 4:7
Used only by Luke and Paul, except John 18:36. Originally to contend for a prize in the public games; and thus conveying a sense of struggle. The kindred noun, ἀγωνία , agony, is used of Christ's struggle in Gethsemane (Luke 22:44). Compare 1 Timothy 6:12; 2 Timothy 4:7. [source]
A favorite metaphor of Paul, from the race-course. See 1 Corinthians 9:24-27; Philemon 3:14; 2 Timothy 4:7. [source]
Imperfect active of πληροω plēroō describing his vivid ministry without defining the precise period when John asked the question. Paul uses this word δρομος dromos (course) of his own race (Acts 20:24; 2 Timothy 4:7). [source]
Rather, “In order that” (purpose, not result). Aleph and B read τελειωσω teleiōsō here (first aorist active subjunctive) rather than τελειωσαι teleiōsai (first aorist active infinitive). It is the lone instance in the N.T. of ως hōs as a final particle (Robertson, Grammar, p. 987). Paul in Acts 13:25 in his sermon at Antioch in Pisidia described John as fulfilling his course and in 2 Timothy 4:7 he will say: “I have finished my course” He will run the race to the end. Which I received from the Lord Jesus (ην ελαβον παρα του κυριου Ιησου hēn elabon para tou kuriou Iēsou). Of that fact he never had a doubt and it was a proud boast (Galatians 1:1; Romans 11:13). The gospel of the grace of God To Paul the gospel consisted in the grace of God. See this word “grace” (χαρις charis) in Romans and his other Epistles. [source]
Common verb for contest in the athletic games (αγων agōn), sometimes with the cognate accusative, αγωνα αγωνιζομαι agōna agōnizomai as in 1 Timothy 6:12; 2 Timothy 4:7. Probably Paul often saw these athletic games. [source]
Late compound verb from δουλαγωγος doulagōgos in Diodorus Siculus, Epictetus and substantive in papyri. It is the metaphor of the victor leading the vanquished as captive and slave. Lest by any means (μη πως mē pōs). Common conjunction for negative purpose with subjunctive as here (γενωμαι genōmai second aorist middle). After that I have preached to others First aorist active participle of κηρυσσω kērussō (see note on 1 Corinthians 1:23), common verb to preach, from word κηρυχ kērux (herald) and that is probably the idea here. A κηρυχ kērux at the games announced the rules of the game and called out the competitors. So Paul is not merely a herald, but a competitor also. I myself should be rejected (αυτος αδοκιμος γενωμαι autos adokimos genōmai). Literally, “I myself should become rejected.” Αδοκιμος Adokimos is an old adjective used of metals, coin, soil (Hebrews 6:8) and in a moral sense only by Paul in N.T. (1 Corinthians 9:27; 2 Corinthians 13:5-7; Romans 1:28; Titus 1:16; 2 Timothy 3:8). It means not standing the test (δοκιμος dokimos from δοκιμαζω dokimazō). Paul means rejected for the prize, not for the entrance to the race. He will fail to win if he breaks the rules of the game (Matthew 7:22.). What is the prize before Paul? Is it that reward (μιστος misthos) of which he spoke in 1 Corinthians 9:18, his glorying of preaching a free gospel? So Edwards argues. Most writers take Paul to refer to the possibility of his rejection in his personal salvation at the end of the race. He does not claim absolute perfection (Philemon 3:12) and so he presses on. At the end he has serene confidence (2 Timothy 4:7) with the race run and won. It is a humbling thought for us all to see this wholesome fear instead of smug complacency in this greatest of all heralds of Christ. [source]
First aorist active participle of κηρυσσω kērussō (see note on 1 Corinthians 1:23), common verb to preach, from word κηρυχ kērux (herald) and that is probably the idea here. A κηρυχ kērux at the games announced the rules of the game and called out the competitors. So Paul is not merely a herald, but a competitor also. I myself should be rejected (αυτος αδοκιμος γενωμαι autos adokimos genōmai). Literally, “I myself should become rejected.” Αδοκιμος Adokimos is an old adjective used of metals, coin, soil (Hebrews 6:8) and in a moral sense only by Paul in N.T. (1 Corinthians 9:27; 2 Corinthians 13:5-7; Romans 1:28; Titus 1:16; 2 Timothy 3:8). It means not standing the test (δοκιμος dokimos from δοκιμαζω dokimazō). Paul means rejected for the prize, not for the entrance to the race. He will fail to win if he breaks the rules of the game (Matthew 7:22.). What is the prize before Paul? Is it that reward (μιστος misthos) of which he spoke in 1 Corinthians 9:18, his glorying of preaching a free gospel? So Edwards argues. Most writers take Paul to refer to the possibility of his rejection in his personal salvation at the end of the race. He does not claim absolute perfection (Philemon 3:12) and so he presses on. At the end he has serene confidence (2 Timothy 4:7) with the race run and won. It is a humbling thought for us all to see this wholesome fear instead of smug complacency in this greatest of all heralds of Christ. [source]
Literally, “I myself should become rejected.” Αδοκιμος Adokimos is an old adjective used of metals, coin, soil (Hebrews 6:8) and in a moral sense only by Paul in N.T. (1 Corinthians 9:27; 2 Corinthians 13:5-7; Romans 1:28; Titus 1:16; 2 Timothy 3:8). It means not standing the test Paul means rejected for the prize, not for the entrance to the race. He will fail to win if he breaks the rules of the game (Matthew 7:22.). What is the prize before Paul? Is it that reward (μιστος misthos) of which he spoke in 1 Corinthians 9:18, his glorying of preaching a free gospel? So Edwards argues. Most writers take Paul to refer to the possibility of his rejection in his personal salvation at the end of the race. He does not claim absolute perfection (Philemon 3:12) and so he presses on. At the end he has serene confidence (2 Timothy 4:7) with the race run and won. It is a humbling thought for us all to see this wholesome fear instead of smug complacency in this greatest of all heralds of Christ. [source]
Better, as giving the force of the imperfect, ye were running. You were on the right road, and were making good progress when this interruption occurred. Comp. Galatians 2:2; 1 Corinthians 9:24-27; Philemon 3:14; 2 Timothy 4:7. [source]
Athletic or gladiatorial contest as in 1 Timothy 6:12; 2 Timothy 4:7. The Philippians saw Paul suffer (Acts 16:19-40; 1 Thessalonians 2:2) as now they have heard about it in Rome. [source]
From ἀγών originally an assembly, a place of assembly, especially for viewing the games. Hence the contest itself, the word being united with different adjectives indicating the character of the contest, as ἱππικός ofhorses; γυμνικός gymnastic μουσικός ofmusic; χάλκεος , where the prize is a brazen shield, etc. Generally, any struggle or trial. Hence the verb means to enter a contest, to contend, to struggle. The metaphor is a favorite one with Paul, and, with the exception of three instances (Luke 13:24; John 18:36; Hebrews 12:1), the words ἀγών contestand ἀγωνίζομαι tocontend are found only in his writings. See 1 Timothy 6:12; 2 Timothy 4:7; 1 Corinthians 9:25(note); 1 Thessalonians 2:2. [source]
Present middle, keep on praying. Note περι peri as in 1 Thessalonians 5:25. That the word of the Lord may run and be glorified (ινα ο λογος του κυριου τρεχηι και δοχαζηται hina ho logos tou kuriou trechēi kai doxazētai). Usual construction of ινα hina after προσευχομαι proseuchomai sub-final use, content and purpose combined. Note present subjunctive with both verbs rather than aorist, may keep on running and being glorified, two verbs joined together nowhere else in the N.T. Paul probably derived this metaphor from the stadium as in 1 Corinthians 9:24.; Galatians 2:2; Romans 9:16; Philemon 2:16; 2 Timothy 4:7. Lightfoot translates “may have a triumphant career.” On the word of the Lord see note on 1 Thessalonians 1:8. Paul recognizes the close relation between himself and the readers. He needs their prayers and sympathy and he rejoices in their reception of the word of the Lord already, even as also it is with you (κατως και προς υμας kathōs kai pros humas). “As it does in your case” (Frame). [source]
Usual construction of ινα hina after προσευχομαι proseuchomai sub-final use, content and purpose combined. Note present subjunctive with both verbs rather than aorist, may keep on running and being glorified, two verbs joined together nowhere else in the N.T. Paul probably derived this metaphor from the stadium as in 1 Corinthians 9:24.; Galatians 2:2; Romans 9:16; Philemon 2:16; 2 Timothy 4:7. Lightfoot translates “may have a triumphant career.” On the word of the Lord see note on 1 Thessalonians 1:8. Paul recognizes the close relation between himself and the readers. He needs their prayers and sympathy and he rejoices in their reception of the word of the Lord already, even as also it is with you “As it does in your case” (Frame). [source]
A phrase peculiar to the Pastorals. Comp. 2 Timothy 4:7. Not necessarily a metaphor from the gymnasium or arena, although ἀγών contestwas applied originally to athletic struggles. But it is also used of any struggle, outward or inward. See Colossians 2:1; Colossians 4:12. [source]
Better, fulfill or fully perform. In Pastorals only here and 2 Timothy 4:17. See on Luke 1:1. In lxx once, Ecclesiastes 8:11, is fully persuaded. Only in this passage in the active voice. Comp. πληρώσαντες τὴν διακονίαν havingfulfilled their ministration, Acts 12:25: ἐπλήρου τὸν δρόμον wasfulfilling his course, Acts 13:25, and τὸν δρόμον Ihave finished the course, 2 Timothy 4:7. For διακονίαν ministrysee on 1 Timothy 1:12. [source]
N.T.oolxx. Paul uses ἀγωνίζεσθαι (see 1 Corinthians 9:25), which appears also in 1 Timothy 4:10; 1 Timothy 6:12; 2 Timothy 4:7. For masteries is superfluous. Rev. contend in the games; but the meaning of the verb is not limited to that. It may mean to contend in battle; and the preceding reference to the soldier would seem to suggest that meaning here. The allusion to crowning is not decisive in favor of the Rev. rendering. Among the Romans crowns were the highest distinction for service in war. The corona triumphalis of laurel was presented to a triumphant general; and the corona obsidionalis was awarded to a general by the army which he had saved from a siege or from a shameful capitulation. It was woven of grass which grew on the spot, and was also called corona graminea. The corona myrtea or ovatio, the crown of bay, was worn by the general who celebrated the lesser triumph or ovatio. The golden corona muralis, with embattled ornaments, was given for the storming of a wall; and the corona castrensis or vallaris, also of gold, and ornamented in imitation of palisades, was awarded to the soldier who first climbed the rampart of the enemy's camp. [source]
The verb, μιμνήσκεσθαι in Paul, only 1 Corinthians 11:2. In Pastorals only here. The words give the reason for the longing to see Timothy. The allusion is probably to the tears shed by Timothy at his parting from Paul. One is naturally reminded of the parting of Paul with the Ephesians elders at Miletus (Acts 20:17ff., see especially Acts 20:37). Holtzmann remarks that Paul's discourse on that occasion is related to this passage as program to performance. Bonds await the apostle (Acts 20:23), and Paul appears as a prisoner (2 Timothy 1:8). He must fulfill his course Acts 20:24); here he has fulfilled it (2 Timothy 4:7). He bids the overseers take heed to the flock, for false teachers will arise in the bosom of the church (Acts 20:29, Acts 20:30); these letters contain directions for the guidance of the flock, and denunciations of heretical teachers. [source]