### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **drómos**, represented by `{{G1408}}`, refers to a **race** or, figuratively, a **career** or **course**. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses**. Its base definition, derived from an alternate of τρέχω, establishes it as a metaphor for a directed path or mission.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G1408}}` is used figuratively to describe a specific, God-given life mission. The Apostle Paul uses the term to describe his own life's work. He states his determination to "finish my **course** with joy," which he equates with the ministry he received from the Lord Jesus [[Acts 20:24]]. Near the end of his life, he reflects, "I have finished my **course**, I have kept the faith" [[2 Timothy 4:7]]. The term is also used to describe the ministry of John the Baptist, noting that as he "fulfilled his **course**," he pointed others toward Christ [[Acts 13:25]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of running one's **course**:
* `{{G73}}` **agṓn** (fight, race): This word is defined as a "contest," "conflict," or "race." It is used in parallel with **drómos** in Paul's statement, "I have fought a good **fight**, I have finished my course" [[2 Timothy 4:7]], reinforcing the theme of a spiritual contest.
* `{{G5055}}` **teléō** (finish): This verb means "to end, i.e. complete, execute, conclude." Its use in [[2 Timothy 4:7]] emphasizes that the **course** is not just an ongoing journey but a task with a definite conclusion that must be reached.
* `{{G1248}}` **diakonía** (ministry): Defined as "(official) service," this term specifies the nature of Paul's **course**. His race was the **ministry** he received from the Lord, which was "to testify the gospel of the grace of God" [[Acts 20:24]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1408}}` is significant, framing the Christian life as a focused endeavor.
* **A Life of Purpose:** The concept of a **drómos** presents a believer's life as a divinely appointed career. Both Paul and John had a specific **course** to fulfill, which for Paul was defined as the **ministry** `{{G1248}}` he received from Jesus [[Acts 20:24]].
* **Emphasis on Completion:** The word is consistently associated with the idea of completion. Paul's goal was to **finish** `{{G5048}}` his **course**, a sentiment he triumphantly declares fulfilled at the end of his life [[2 Timothy 4:7]]. This highlights the importance of endurance and seeing one's mission through to the end.
* **Faithfulness in the Race:** Finishing the **course** is directly linked to maintaining one's commitment. Paul's declaration that he had "finished my **course**" is immediately followed by the statement, "I have kept the **faith**" [[2 Timothy 4:7]], indicating that the race is run and won through steadfast fidelity.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1408}}` is a powerful figurative term for the Christian life. While appearing only 3 times, it encapsulates the idea of a life lived as a divinely appointed **course** or mission. Its usage by Paul and in reference to John highlights a journey that requires purpose, endurance to the point of completion, and unwavering **faith**. It illustrates how a believer's life is not a random series of events, but a focused race toward a specific, God-given finish line.
TRV