Topical Encyclopedia
The term "masteries" is often associated with the concept of achieving excellence or gaining control over a particular skill or area of life. In the context of the Bible, it is closely related to the idea of discipline, self-control, and the pursuit of spiritual and moral excellence. The concept is not frequently mentioned explicitly in Scripture, but it is implicitly present in various passages that emphasize the importance of striving for spiritual growth and maturity.
Biblical References1.
1 Corinthians 9:24-27 : The Apostle Paul uses the metaphor of athletic competition to describe the Christian life, emphasizing the need for discipline and self-control. He writes, "Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way as to take the prize. Everyone who competes in the games trains with strict discipline. They do it for a crown that is perishable, but we do it for a crown that is imperishable. Therefore I do not run aimlessly; I do not fight like I am beating the air. No, I discipline my body and make it my slave, so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified." Here, Paul highlights the importance of mastering one's desires and impulses to achieve spiritual victory.
2.
2 Timothy 2:5 : Paul again uses the imagery of athletic competition to convey the necessity of adhering to the rules in the pursuit of mastery. He states, "Likewise, a competitor does not receive the crown unless he competes according to the rules." This passage underscores the importance of obedience and adherence to God's commandments as part of the process of mastering one's spiritual life.
3.
Proverbs 16:32 : The wisdom literature of the Old Testament also speaks to the concept of mastery, particularly in terms of self-control.
Proverbs 16:32 states, "He who is slow to anger is better than a warrior, and he who controls his temper is greater than one who captures a city." This verse highlights the value of mastering one's emotions and impulses, suggesting that true strength lies in self-control rather than physical might.
Theological ImplicationsThe pursuit of masteries in the Christian life involves a commitment to spiritual discipline and growth. It requires believers to exercise self-control, patience, and perseverance in their walk with God. The New Testament frequently encourages believers to "put on the new self" (
Ephesians 4:24) and to be transformed by the renewing of their minds (
Romans 12:2). This transformation is a process of mastering one's sinful nature and aligning one's life with the will of God.
The concept of masteries also involves the development of spiritual gifts and talents for the edification of the church and the glory of God. Believers are called to be good stewards of the gifts they have received, using them to serve others and advance the kingdom of God (
1 Peter 4:10).
Practical ApplicationIn practical terms, the pursuit of masteries involves regular spiritual disciplines such as prayer, Bible study, fasting, and fellowship with other believers. These practices help Christians grow in their faith and develop the character of Christ. Additionally, believers are encouraged to seek accountability and mentorship within the body of Christ to aid in their spiritual development.
The pursuit of masteries is not about achieving perfection but about striving for holiness and maturity in Christ. It is a lifelong journey that requires dedication, humility, and reliance on the Holy Spirit. As believers grow in their mastery of spiritual disciplines, they become more effective witnesses for Christ and better equipped to fulfill the Great Commission.
Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary
(
n.) Plural of Mastery.
Library
2 Timothy ii. 7-Jan
... And if a man also strive formasteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive
lawfully. The husbandman that laboreth must be first partaker of the fruits....
The Strife for Precedence.
... THE STRIFE FOR PRECEDENCE. THE STRIFE FOR PRECEDENCE. And if a man strive formasteries,
yet is he not crowned except he strive lawfully."II. TIMOTHY, ii.5....
Exhortations to Earnestness and Moderation.
... entangleth himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who hath
chosen him to be a soldier; and if a man also strive formasteries, yet is he...
For He Himself Also, with an Eye to the Like Necessities of Saints...
... [2527] For he that striveth formasteries, is not crowned except he strive lawfully."
[2528] Hereupon, lest the other should be put to straits, saying, "Dig I...
Preface by the Author
... me, and show that they have read the book through, and that they understand it,
and are candidly inquiring after truth and not "striving formasteries." If my...
The Duty of Self-Denial.
... be a soldier. If a man also strive formasteries, yet is he not crowned,
except he strive lawfully." This is St. Paul's rule, as...
The Strait Gate;
... "and if a man also strive formasteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive
lawfully." (2 Timothy 2:5) But you will say, What is it to strive lawfully?...
Of Faith. The Definition of It. Its Peculiar Properties.
The Institutes of the Christian Religion. <....
A Holy Life the Beauty of Christianity: Or, an Exhortation to...
The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3. <....
Thesaurus
Masteries (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance
Masteries (1 Occurrence). 2 Timothy 2:5 And if a man also
strive for
masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully.
...Lawfully (2 Occurrences)
... RSV). 2 Timothy 2:5 And if a man also strive formasteries, yet is he not
crowned, except he strive lawfully. (KJV ASV DBY WBS YLT)....
Mastery (5 Occurrences)
... Version (British and American) "striventh in the games"; and in 2 Timothy 2:5, athelo,
with the same meaning, is translated "strive formasteries," the Revised...
Mastered (3 Occurrences)
Striveth (7 Occurrences)
... (KJV ASV WBS). 2 Timothy 2:5 And if a man also striveth formasteries,
yet is he not crowned, except he striveth lawfully. (WBS)....
Strive (64 Occurrences)
... witnesses. (DBY). 2 Timothy 2:5 And if a man also strive formasteries, yet
is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully. (KJV WBS YLT)....
Masters (59 Occurrences)
Resources
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