Quote:
Originally Posted by JJ
The second question I have is “what does contend for the faith mean?”
For reference the definition of the Greek word translated as “contend” is here https://biblehub.com/greek/4866.htm.
I’m surprised by the definition that it has more of an athletic team meaning than a warfare meaning. |
As you point out, the meaning is more about an athletic competition rather than warfare. To contend is something you do in a game or a contest and is not to the point of lethal action, as warfare is.
We are to contend with those around us, being diligent that they may hear and see evidence of the faith in us, via our words and actions. We are not out to kill them, but rather to bring them to the knowledge of the Son of God, Who is life itself. So it is a friendly endeavor, as opposed to warfare - which goal is to destroy the other.