Lexical Summary gumnazó: To train, exercise, discipline Original Word: γυμνάζω Strong's Exhaustive Concordance exercise, trainFrom gumnos; to practise naked (in the games), i.e. Train (figuratively) -- exercise. see GREEK gumnos HELPS Word-studies 1128 gymnázō (from 1131 /gymnós, "to train, naked or wearing a loin cloth") – properly, naked or lightly clad, as with an ancient Greek athlete in a sporting event; (figuratively) to train with one's full effort, i.e. with complete physical, emotional force like when working out intensely in a gymnasium. ["Gym" and "gymnasium" come from this same root.] 1128 /gymnázō ("exert intensely, like a pro-athlete") presumes full discipline, necessary to be in "top working condition" (full agility, skill, endurance). This is gained only from constant, rigorous training (exercise). 1128 (gymnázō) conveys acquiring proficiency through practice – regular exercise with graduated resistance (the physical element is also included with the spiritual of being in "God's gymnasium"). NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom gumnos Definition to exercise naked, to train NASB Translation discipline (1), trained (3). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 1128: γυμνάζωγυμνάζω; (perfect passive participle γεγυμνασμενοσ'; (γυμνός); common in Greek writings from Aeschylus down; 1. properly, to exercise naked (in the palaestra). 2. to exercise vigorously, in any way, either the body or the mind: ἑαυτόν πρός εὐσέβειαν, of one who strives earnestly to become godly, 1 Timothy 4:7; γεγυμνασμενος exercised, Hebrews 5:14; Hebrews 12:11; καρδίαν γεγυμνασμένην πλεονεξίας (Rec. πλεονεξίαις), a soul that covetousness or the love of gain has trained in its crafty ways, 2 Peter 2:14; cf. Winer's Grammar, § 30, 4. The verb rendered “train” in English evokes the rigorous regimen of the ancient gymnasium, a place where Greek athletes pursued excellence through disciplined practice. Scripture appropriates that imagery to depict moral and spiritual conditioning. As athletes submit to strenuous exercise for a perishable crown, believers submit to God-ordained discipline for an imperishable reward. Old Testament Foreshadowing Although the specific verb appears only in the New Testament, its idea resonates with Proverbs 22:6, where a child is “trained up” in the way he should go, and with the priestly instruction of Leviticus 10:11. These passages anticipate the New Testament call to habituate oneself to righteousness. New Testament Occurrences Hebrews 5:14 – “But solid food is for the mature, who by reason of use have trained their senses to distinguish between good and evil.” Spiritual maturity arises from repeated obedience; discernment grows only where the will has been exercised. 2 Peter 2:14 – False teachers have “hearts trained in greed.” The same process that fortifies saints in holiness can, when turned toward vice, harden sinners in covetousness. Hebrews 12:11 – “No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it yields a harvest of righteousness and peace to those who have been trained by it.” Divine chastening is not arbitrary but purpose-driven, producing moral fruit in those who persevere. 1 Timothy 4:7 – “But reject profane and silly myths. Instead, train yourself to be godly.” Personal responsibility meets divine enablement; the believer actively pursues godliness while relying on the Spirit’s power. Theological Themes 1. Progressive Sanctification: Training implies a process. Salvation initiates the believer into Christ’s school; sanctification keeps the believer enrolled until glorification. Historical and Cultural Setting First-century readers were surrounded by athletic festivals such as the Isthmian and Olympic Games. The gymnasium was not merely a sports complex but an educational center promoting both body and mind. New Testament writers employ this well-known social institution to communicate the seriousness and intentionality of Christian living. Ministry and Discipleship Implications • Curriculum Design: Churches should structure teaching that moves believers from milk to solid food, allowing repeated practice of biblical truth. Illustrative Examples in Church History • Early catechumenate programs required rigorous moral instruction prior to baptism. Application for Today 1. Establish daily disciplines of Scripture intake, prayer, and obedience. Summary Strong’s Greek 1128 portrays a lifestyle of intentional, disciplined practice that shapes the believer’s capacities for discernment, holiness, and service. The same rigorous commitment admired in ancient athletes is redirected by Scripture toward godliness, promising a harvest of righteousness for all who submit to God’s gracious training. Englishman's Concordance 1 Timothy 4:7 V-PMA-2SGRK: μύθους παραιτοῦ γύμναζε δὲ σεαυτὸν NAS: hand, discipline yourself KJV: and exercise thyself INT: fables refuse train moreover yourself Hebrews 5:14 V-RPM/P-ANP Hebrews 12:11 V-RPM/P-DMP 2 Peter 2:14 V-RPM/P-AFS Strong's Greek 1128 |
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