II Timothy 2:5

“Also if anyone competes as an athlete, he does not win the prize unless he competes according to the rules.”

‭‭Paul continues with ‘Also’ or ‘Similarly’ (NIV). Here is another illustration, this time athletics, to drive home a ‘similar’ point that there are boundaries and rules for the faithful, available and teachable man who makes disciples.  

Paul may actually be referring to the Greek Games. A ‘rule’ at the time was that competing athletes were required to train for a minimum of 10 months to qualify for the games. They just did not show up. This would be consistent with life as a soldier and next – as a farmer (v 6). 

The character qualities of an ‘athlete in training’ would be discipline, perseverance, endurance, and a readiness for sacrifice.

Paul the mentor is reinforcing what it will take to his spiritual son, Timothy, to continue to be a disciple who is making disciples.