„Metaphorical Triad”. About Soldier, Wrestler and Farmer in 2 Tim 2:4-6

Anna Rambiert

Wrocław, PWT

Abstract

Presented article attempts to read the Pauline metaphors in a semantically new way. Author by using so called „interaction view” of Max Black tries to understand three metaphors from 2 Tim 2:4-6 in their cultural and literal context and interprets them in the nearest to Paul’s view and intention. That is way author presents ancient texts referring to soldiers in the Roman Army, wrestlers in the Greek Games and farmers. All three metaphors mentioned in a title are used to transfer a few important truths about leaders of the Church, which are called to sacrifice their daily pleasures and relations. They are called to fight with their own weaknesses, fears and Gospel’s opponents, they are finally called to preach the Gospel not only by words but by their own lives. If they do so they will receive heavenly price, which is eternity in the presence of Church.

Keywords:

soldier, wrestler, farmer, sport, agonistics, Pastoral Epistles, metaphor