And athletes cannot win the prize unless they follow the rules.

In order to properly answer the question, “What does this verse mean?” Paul gave some advice. He said “Think about what I am saying.” And, “The Lord will help you understand all these things,” (2 Timothy 2:7).

If we think about what Paul is saying, the first thing we notice is the context of the metaphor. Paul’s letter is a letter of instruction and encouragement to Timothy, one of his disciples and co-workers in the ministry. He instructs Timothy to teach all the things he was taught by Paul to “trustworthy people,” (2 Timothy 2:2). The metaphor, then, applies to and stands for a teacher of the gospel message. Teachers of the gospel are like athletes.

In what respect is a teacher of the gospel like an athlete? Like an athlete, a teacher must go through some training in order to properly teach the gospel. Timothy had been trained by the best—the Apostle Paul himself. Further, like an athlete, a teacher of the Gospel must actually participate in the activity he has trained for. There is no sitting on the sidelines allowed. Timothy was ready to begin his teaching duties at Ephesus.

Also, like an athlete, a teacher of the gospel is striving to win a prize. The prize in question is the “crown of life” that James says is in store for all those who stand firm in their service (James 1:12).

Finally, like an athlete, a teacher of the gospel must compete according to the rules. A good teacher can’t just do whatever he wants—like the athlete, he is focused. He must teach the pure gospel of Jesus Christ, he must endure all the difficulties and opposition his ministry encounters, and he must persevere until the goal is reached.

Teachers aren’t the only ones who are like athletes, however. Every Christian, no matter what their calling, must train, compete for the prize, and play by the rules.