1 Timothy 6:12

Fight. Gr. agōnizomai (see on Luke 13:24). Paul frequently compares the Christian life with the athletic contests which were familiar to people in Asia Minor. Victory was the result of determined perseverance and rigid self-control. Once the race began there was no time for side issues or divided thinking, nor does a runner stop halfway in the race to compliment himself on how well he has run (see on 1 Cor. 9:25).

Faith. Literally, “the faith,” that is, the Christian revelation of the gospel (see on v. 10). Before all the competing religions of the world the Christian defends the gospel in two ways—by a consistent Christian life and by an able, logical presentation of Christian truth (see on ch. 4:16).

Lay hold. That is, keep on fighting, to grasp the reward of “eternal life” (see on 1 Cor. 9:24; 2 Tim. 4:8).

Eternal life. Literally, “the eternal life.” Paul here contrasts the reward due those who have unreservedly pursued a sanctified life, with the wages of “destruction and perdition” (v. 9) due those who made material security the goal of their energy and time.

Called. See on Rom. 8:28.

Good profession. Paul perhaps refers first to Timothy’s baptism, which witnessed to his faith in Christ, and also to his continuing loyalty to his baptismal vows. Every man is thus called to inherit “eternal life” (see on Matt. 22:14; John 1:12; 3:16). However, the provisions of salvation are granted only to those who profess allegiance to God’s way of life.