And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully.

2 Timothy 2:5

Although it would apply to anything one does, taking the rest of the chapter into account, it seems the context would have to do with the ministering of God’s word.

2 Timothy 2:2 And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.

2 Timothy 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

A crown awaits those who diligently study, understand, use, and serve in God’s word correctly.

1 Corinthians 9:25 And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.

Many use God’s word to profit and promote themselves.

Philippians 2:21 For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ’s.

Acts 20:29-30 For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. 30Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.

… the acquisition of such absolute command over the consciences and understanding of a congregation, however obscure or despised by the world, is more truly grateful to the pride of the human heart, than the possession of the most despotic power, imposed by arms and conquest on a reluctant people

Edward Gibbon, Esq; "History Of The Decline And Fall Of The Roman Empire", Chapter XV: Progress Of The Christian Religion 

At least, this is the way I understand it.

Back To: Verse Insights