Emulation
“Zeal/jealousy; to provoke to jealousy”
Summary
Emulation in Scripture carries two distinct meanings: negatively, it refers to jealous rivalry that stirs up envy in others (a work of the flesh); positively, it describes the noble desire to inspire others to follow good examples, as when Paul sought to provoke his fellow Jews to faith.
☩Negative Sense - Jealousy
In Galatians 5:20, emulation (Greek zelos) appears among 'the works of the flesh' alongside idolatry, witchcraft, and strife. Here it signifies jealous rivalry—stirring up envy in others through what we are, have, or claim. The same Greek word is translated 'jealousy' elsewhere (Acts 13:45; Rom 13:13; 1 Cor 3:3; 2 Cor 12:20; Jas 3:14, 16). This fleshly emulation pleases the lower nature by exciting envious feelings in others—it delights in making people covet what we possess.
☩Positive Sense - Provoking to Good
In Romans 11:14, Paul uses emulation positively: 'If by any means I may provoke to emulation them which are my flesh, and might save some of them.' Here the Greek parazeloo means 'to provoke to jealousy' in a redemptive sense—making unbelieving Jews desire the blessing they see Gentile believers enjoying. This godly emulation inspires admiration and imitation of good qualities. Classical writers distinguished emulation from envy: emulation admires great actions and strives to imitate them, while envy refuses praiseworthy deeds their due honor.
