Train, Exercise

Greek Word Pronunciation: gum-NAD-zoh
Strong’s Number: 1128
Goodrich/Kohlenberger Number: 1214
Key Verse: “Discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness.” -- 1 Timothy 4:7

Gumnadzo is a transliteration from which we get our English words “gymnasium” and “gymnastics.” The meaning is to train in gymnastic discipline, to exercise vigorously, in any way, the body or the mind. In order to be successful, the natural athlete must be in peek physical and mental shape. This is accomplished by establishing a daily routine in order to discipline himself to endure the rigors of the race. Likewise, the spiritual athlete must follow a rigorous disciplined routine in study and meditation upon the Scriptures. Spiritual development does not happen by chance.

This verb is found only four places in the New Testament and is routinely translated as "train" or "exercise." In only one of these verses does it carry a negative connotation. In 2 Peter 2:14, the reference is to the “cursed” false teachers who had lived in a state of covetousness for so long that their heart condition of greed was permanent; they had trained themselves at being greedy, were filled with immorality, and they were leading Christians away from the faith.

The remaining verses establish the fact that this training in spiritual growth has a three-fold sense of purpose. Hebrews 5:14 speaks of habitual use of the perceptive senses being vigorously trained. The purpose is ability to discriminate between good and evil teaching. Hebrews 12:11 refers to those who have been trained by God’s discipline, with the purpose of producing the peaceful fruit of righteousness. In both of these instances, the verb is in perfect tense, indicating a past action, with continuing effects. The hard work of spiritual training has the permanent effects of discernment and righteousness.

Finally, in 1 TIMOTHY 4:7, Paul tells Timothy to discipline himself for the purpose of godliness. This verb is a command, and it is in the present tense, which indicates ongoing habitual personal responsibility on Timothy's part. Thus, the healthy spiritual athlete receives eternal benefits, as well as ability to benefit other believers in becoming godly Christians.