### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **nomímōs**, represented by `{{G3545}}`, is an adverb meaning to act **lawfully** or legitimately. Derived from the word for law, νόμος, it signifies operating agreeably to a set of rules or principles. It appears only **2 times** in **2 unique verses**, but both instances provide crucial insight into the proper conduct required in Christian life and ministry.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two uses of `{{G3545}}` highlight its application in different contexts. In [[1 Timothy 1:8]], the word is used in a legal sense, stating that the **law** `{{G3551}}` is **good** `{{G2570}}` only **if** `{{G1437}}` a person **use** `{{G5530}}` it **lawfully** `{{G3545}}`. In [[2 Timothy 2:5]], it is used in a competitive metaphor, explaining that an athlete who wishes to be **crowned** `{{G4737}}` must **strive** `{{G118}}` **lawfully** `{{G3545}}`, according to the rules of the contest. Both verses emphasize that the legitimacy of an action is determined by adherence to a governing standard.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of acting **lawfully**:
* `{{G3551}}` **nómos** (law): As the root of **nomímōs**, this word refers to a principle or prescriptive usage, such as the law of Moses or the principles of the Gospel. Its proper use is conditional [[1 Timothy 1:8]].
* `{{G118}}` **athléō** (strive): This term for contending in competitive games is directly linked with the need to compete **lawfully** to win [[2 Timothy 2:5]].
* `{{G4737}}` **stephanóō** (crown): This is the reward for one who strives **lawfully**. It signifies being adorned with an honorary wreath, the prize for a legitimate victory [[2 Timothy 2:5]].
* `{{G5530}}` **chráomai** (use): This word describes the action of employing or acting with the law. Its pairing with **nomímōs** shows that the law's goodness is realized through its proper application [[1 Timothy 1:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3545}}` is centered on the principle of right conduct as a condition for divine approval and reward.
* **The Condition for Victory:** The Christian life is compared to an athletic contest where victory is not guaranteed by effort alone. To be **crowned** `{{G4737}}`, one must **strive** `{{G118}}` **lawfully** `{{G3545}}`, showing that adherence to God's rules is non-negotiable [[2 Timothy 2:5]].
* **The Proper Use of the Law:** The goodness of God's **law** `{{G3551}}` is not automatic but is activated when it is used for its intended purpose. Using it **lawfully** means applying it correctly, in line with its spirit and design [[1 Timothy 1:8]].
* **The Negation of Unregulated Action:** In both occurrences, the word is part of a conditional statement introduced by **if** `{{G1437}}`. This underscores that unguided or improper effort, whether in a contest or in applying the law, is invalid and does **not** `{{G3756}}` lead to the desired outcome.
### Summary
In summary, **nomímōs** `{{G3545}}` is a precise term that defines the required manner of an action. Though used infrequently, it establishes a vital biblical principle: true success in the spiritual realm, whether it is achieving a reward or benefiting from God's law, is conditional upon acting legitimately and in accordance with established divine standards. It teaches that the "how" is as important as the "what" in the life of a believer.
TRV