1 Corinthians 9:24
Verse
Context
Run Your Race to Win
23I do all this for the sake of the gospel, so that I may share in its blessings.24Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way as to take the prize.25Everyone who competes in the games trains with strict discipline. They do it for a crown that is perishable, but we do it for a crown that is imperishable.
Sermons
K.P. Yohannan
David Wilkerson
Compilations
Carter Conlon
C.H. SpurgeonEarl R. Clark
Erlo StegenSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
They which run in a race run all - It is sufficiently evident that the apostle alludes to the athletic exercises in the games which were celebrated every fifth year on the isthmus, or narrow neck of land, which joins the Peloponnesus, or Morea, to the main land; and were thence termed the Isthmian games. The exercises were running, wrestling, boxing, throwing the discus or quoit, etc.; to the three first of these the apostle especially alludes. But one receiveth the prize? - The apostle places the Christian race in contrast to the Isthmian games; in them, only one received the prize, though all ran; in this, if all run, all will receive the prize; therefore he says, So run that ye may obtain. Be as much in earnest to get to heaven as others are to gain their prize; and, although only one of them can win, all of you may obtain.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Know ye not--The Isthmian games, in which the foot race was a leading one, were of course well known, and a subject of patriotic pride to the Corinthians, who lived in the immediate neighborhood. These periodical games were to the Greeks rather a passion than a mere amusement: hence their suitableness as an image of Christian earnestness. in a race--Greek, "in a race course." all . . . one--Although we knew that one alone could be saved, still it Would be well worth our while to run [BENGEL]. Even in the Christian race not "all" who enter on the race win (Co1 10:1-5). So run, that ye may obtain--said parenthetically. These are the words in which the instructors of the young in the exercise schools (gymnasia) and the spectators on the race course exhorted their pupils to stimulate them to put forth all exertions. The gymnasium was a prominent feature in every Greek city. Every candidate had to take an oath that he had been ten months in training, and that he would violate none of the regulations (Ti2 2:5; compare Ti1 4:7-8). He lived on a strict self-denying diet, refraining from wine and pleasant foods, and enduring cold and heat and most laborious discipline. The "prize" awarded by the judge or umpire was a chaplet of green leaves; at the Isthmus, those of the indigenous pine, for which parsley leaves were temporarily substituted (Co1 9:25). The Greek for "obtain" is fully obtain. It is in vain to begin, unless we persevere to the end (Mat 10:22; Mat 24:13; Rev 2:10). The "so" expresses, Run with such perseverance in the heavenly course, as "all" the runners exhibit in the earthly "race" just spoken of: to the end that ye may attain the prize.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And every man that striveth for the mastery,.... Either in running a race, or in wrestling; for the word here used agrees with both, and both are in the context referred to, nor has the apostle as yet done with his allusion to running in a race; is temperate in all things; contains himself from venery, abstains from certain sorts of food, which tend to hinder the agility, or weaken the strength of the body; and indulges not himself in sloth and idleness, but exercises himself in various manners, that he may be prepared for running or wrestling: the apostle's view in this, seems to be to strengthen some exhortations he had already given, to abstain from fornication, and the immoderate use of venery; to forbear eating things offered to idols, and not give themselves up to luxury and intemperance; for should they be overcharged with surfeiting and drunkenness, and the cares of this life, they would be very unfit for their Christian race, or for wrestling with principalities and powers, and the discharging of the business of a Christian profession: now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; they confine themselves to a certain diet and course of living, and abstain from things otherwise desirable to nature; and this they do for the sake of a fading crown, a crown of leaves, made of the boughs and leaves of olives, laurels, pine, &c. or of parsley, green or dried, as before observed (t): but we an incorruptible; even eternal life; compared to a crown, for the riches, glory, and lustre of it; and as suitable to the character and dignity of saints, who are kings as well as priests unto God: it is called "incorruptible", because it is so in its own nature; nor can it be corrupted by other things, as crowns even of gold may; nor shall any corrupt person wear it; the corruption of nature must be removed from the saints, yea, that frailty and mortality of human nature, which sometimes goes by the name of corruption, must be taken away, ere they can inherit this crown and kingdom; nor will it ever fade away, as the corruptible crowns of the conquerors in these games did, and that in a very short time; but this will last for ever, and always continue in the same glory and lustre. (t) Vid. Alex. ab Alex, Genial. Dier. l. 5. c. 8.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
In these verses the apostle hints at the great encouragement he had to act in this manner. He had a glorious prize, an incorruptible crown, in view. Upon this head he compares himself to the racers and combatants in the Isthmian games, an allusion well known to the Corinthians, because they were celebrated in their neighbourhood: "Know you not that those who run in a race run all, but one obtaineth the prize? Co1 9:24. All run at your games, but only one gets the race and wins the crown." And here, I. He excites them to their duty: "So run that you may obtain. It is quite otherwise in the Christian race than in your races; only one wins the prize in them. You may all run so as to obtain. You have great encouragement, therefore, to persist constantly, and diligently, and vigorously, in your course. There is room for all to get the prize. You cannot fail if you run well. Yet there should be a noble emulation; you should endeavour to outdo one another. And it is a glorious contest who shall get first to heaven, or have the best rewards in that blessed world. I make it my endeavour to run; so do you, as you see me go before you." Note, It is the duty of Christians to follow their ministers closely in the chase of eternal glory, and the honour and duty of ministers to lead them in the way. II. He directs them in their course, by setting more fully to view his own example, still carrying on the allusion. 1. Those that ran in their games were kept to a set diet: "Every man that strives for the mastery is temperate in all things, Co1 9:23. The fighters and wrestlers in your exercises are kept to strict diet and discipline; nay, they keep themselves to it. They do not indulge themselves, but restrain themselves from the food they eat and so from the liberties they use on other occasions. And should not Christians much more abridge themselves of their liberty, for so glorious an end as winning the race, and obtaining the prize set before them? They used a very spare diet, and course food, and denied themselves much, to prepare for their race and combat; so do I; so should you, after my example. It is hard if, for the heavenly crown, you cannot abstain from heathen sacrifices." 2. They were not only temperate, but inured themselves to hardships. Those who fought with one another in these exercises prepared themselves by beating the air, as the apostle calls it, or by throwing out their arms, and thereby inuring themselves, beforehand, to deal about their blows in close combat, or brandish them by way of flourish. There is no room for any such exercise in the Christian warfare. Christians are ever in close combat. There enemies make fierce and hearty opposition, and are ever at hand; and for this reason they must lay about them in earnest, and never drop the contest, nor flag and faint in it. They must fight, not as those that beat the air, but must strive against their enemies with all their might. One enemy the apostle here mentions, namely, the body; this must be kept under, beaten black and blue, as the combatants were in these Grecian games, and thereby brought into subjection. By the body we are to understand fleshly appetites and inclinations. These the apostle set himself to curb and conquer, and in this the Corinthians were bound to imitate him. Note, Those who would aright pursue the interests of their souls must beat down their bodies, and keep them under. They must combat hard with fleshly lusts, and not indulge a wanton appetite, and long for heathenish sacrifices, nor eat them, to please their flesh, at the hazard of their brethren's souls. The body must be made to serve the mind, not suffered to lord over it. III. The apostle presses this advice on the Corinthians by proper arguments drawn from the same contenders. 1. They take pains, and undergo all those hardships, to obtain a corruptible crown (Co1 9:25), but we an incorruptible. Those who conquered in these games were crowned only with the withering leaves or boughs of trees, of olive, bays, or laurel. But Christians have an incorruptible crown in view, a crown of glory that never fadeth away, an inheritance incorruptible, reserved in heaven for them. And would they yet suffer themselves to be outdone by these racers or wrestlers? Can they use abstinence in diet, exert themselves in racing, expose their bodies to so much hardship in a combat, who have no more in view than the trifling huzzas of a giddy multitude, or a crown of leaves? And shall not Christians, who hope for the approbation of the sovereign Judge, and a crown of glory from his hands, stretch forward in the heavenly race, and exert themselves in beating down their fleshly inclinations, and the strong-holds of sin? 2. The racers in these games run at uncertainty. All run, but one receives the prize, Co1 9:24. Every racer, therefore, is at a great uncertainty whether he shall win it or no. But the Christian racer is at no such uncertainty. Every one may run here so as to obtain; but then he must run within the lines, he must keep to the path of duty prescribed, which, some think, is the meaning of running not as uncertainly, Co1 9:26. He who keeps within the limits prescribed, and keeps on in his race, will never miss his crown, though others may get theirs before him. And would the Grecian racers keep within their bounds, and exert themselves to the very last, when one only could win, and all must be uncertain which that one would be? And shall not Christians be much more exact and vigorous when all are sure of a crown when they come to the end of their race? 3. He sets before himself and them the danger of yielding to fleshly inclinations, and pampering the body and its lusts and appetites: I keep my body under, lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a cast-away (Co1 9:27), rejected, disapproved, adokimos, one to whom the brabeutēs - the judge or umpire of the race, will not decree the crown. The allusion to the games runs through the whole sentence. Note, A preacher of salvation may yet miss it. He may show others the way to heaven, and never get thither himself. To prevent this, Paul took so much pains in subduing and keeping under bodily inclinations, lest by any means he himself, who had preached to others, should yet miss the crown, be disapproved and rejected by his sovereign Judge. A holy fear of himself was necessary to preserve the fidelity of an apostle; and how much more necessary is it to our preservation? Note, Holy fear of ourselves, and not presumptuous confidence, is the best security against apostasy from God, and final rejection by him.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
9:24-27 To illustrate how seriously the Corinthians must take the discipline of their salvation, Paul alludes to the familiar Isthmian games, an athletic competition held every two years in Corinth. • All athletes are disciplined: Strict self-discipline is required for athletes competing for a prize. In Paul’s day, athletes endured months of rigorous training before competing. In the same way, strict self-discipline (cp. Gal 5:22-23) is required if a person is to gain the eternal prize of salvation. Christians must submit to the daily discipline of obeying Christ. • a prize that will fade away: Athletic prizes were often wreaths made out of laurel leaves (cp. 2 Tim 4:8; Jas 1:12; 1 Pet 5:4; Rev 2:10).
1 Corinthians 9:24
Run Your Race to Win
23I do all this for the sake of the gospel, so that I may share in its blessings.24Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way as to take the prize.25Everyone who competes in the games trains with strict discipline. They do it for a crown that is perishable, but we do it for a crown that is imperishable.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Run the Race Like Abraham
By K.P. Yohannan7.7K29:42PerseveranceGEN 12:1MAT 6:331CO 9:24HEB 13:7In this sermon, the speaker reflects on his own journey of serving God for over 43 years and the caution and fear he feels about his own spiritual journey. He emphasizes the importance of being aware of the deceptive nature of our hearts and the potential to lose focus. The speaker also highlights the story of Abraham, who made a choice to have total dependence on the Lord and ultimately finished his journey exceptionally well. The sermon concludes with the encouragement to fix our eyes on eternity and not be swayed by the superficial and self-centered gospel promoted in our culture.
Running the Right Race (Birmingham Conference)
By David Wilkerson4.3K46:23Running The RaceDependence on the Holy SpiritMAT 6:33ROM 8:51CO 9:242CO 4:2GAL 1:6PHP 3:142TI 4:7HEB 12:1JAS 4:41JN 2:15David Wilkerson emphasizes the importance of running the right race in the Christian life, distinguishing between the spirit race, which leads to Christ, and the flesh race, which leads to worldly success. He warns that many Christians, including pastors, are caught up in the flesh race, leading to spiritual exhaustion and shipwrecked lives. Wilkerson calls for a return to dependence on the Holy Spirit and a commitment to preaching the uncompromised gospel of Jesus Christ. He encourages believers to seek a deeper relationship with God, reminding them that true success is found in Christ alone, not in worldly achievements. The sermon concludes with a call to stand firm in faith and not compromise the truth of the gospel.
The Simple Gospel (Compilation)
By Compilations2.1K19:19CompilationMAT 1:21LUK 9:23ACT 17:30ROM 6:61CO 9:24EPH 4:22HEB 12:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that the true message of the Gospel has been distorted. He argues that the belief that Jesus will save people in their sins is incorrect. Instead, the Gospel teaches that Jesus will save people from their sins. The preacher highlights the importance of repentance and letting go of sin in order to live a life aligned with God's will. He also criticizes the lack of action and hypocrisy among Christians, stating that their failure to live out their faith has led to a negative perception of Christianity in secular society.
If It Be Thou, Bid Me Come
By Carter Conlon2.0K48:432CH 5:13JOB 42:1PSA 104:1MAT 14:22MAT 25:1ROM 11:331CO 9:242TI 2:5This sermon emphasizes the importance of deepening our relationship with God and running the race of faith with determination and truth. It calls for a commitment to seek God's will, to go deeper into the Word, and to be willing to follow wherever God leads, even into the depths of faith and obedience. The message challenges believers to be prepared to stand firm, to be courageous, and to be willing to sacrifice for the sake of the Gospel, echoing the call to finish the race faithfully.
The Heavenly Race
By C.H. Spurgeon1.8K51:29JOB 19:25ECC 9:10ROM 14:41CO 9:24PHP 3:13HEB 4:11HEB 12:2In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of running the heavenly race and obtaining the ultimate prize of eternal life in heaven. He compares the race to a life-or-death situation, where the stakes are high and the urgency to run is paramount. The preacher urges the listeners to start well, stay on course, and never stop or turn aside. He reminds them of the sacrifice and suffering of Jesus Christ, who calls them to press forward and receive the crown of life that awaits those who love his appearing.
I Press Toward the Mark
By Earl R. Clark1.6K48:01CallingMAT 6:33MAT 7:71CO 9:24EPH 3:20PHP 4:19HEB 12:1JAS 4:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that Christ is the ultimate goal and focus for believers. He encourages everyone to participate in the race towards this goal, emphasizing that all can reach it with the help of God. The speaker urges listeners to keep their eyes fixed on Christ and not be distracted by others. The sermon concludes with the reminder that God has a purpose for each individual and that it is their responsibility to use their time on earth to share the message of Christ with others.
Reach Towards the Goal
By Erlo Stegen1.6K46:27GoalPRO 29:18MAT 6:33ROM 8:181CO 9:242CO 4:17PHP 3:13HEB 12:1In this sermon, the preacher tells a story about a young man who is running a race to win the hand of a princess. Along the way, he gets distracted by a shoe made of pure gold and spends a long time pondering over it. Eventually, he remembers his goal and continues running, but arrives 15 minutes late. The king tells him that he will never get the princess unless he completes the course on time. The preacher uses this story to illustrate the importance of staying focused on our goals and not getting sidetracked by worldly distractions. He encourages Christians to have a clear goal in their faith and to keep their eyes fixed on Jesus.
The Temptation to Abandon the Cross
By Carter Conlon1.5K44:10LUK 4:181CO 9:24
This sermon emphasizes the importance of finishing the race set before us with determination and truth, just as the Apostle Paul urged in 1 Corinthians 9:24. It highlights the temptation to abandon the cross, reminding believers to stay focused on God's purpose for their lives despite opposition and challenges. The message encourages standing firm in faith, trusting in God's protection and strength to overcome fear and continue the journey of faith.
Soldiers, Athletes and Farmers
By Zac Poonen1.4K1:00:07MAT 22:371CO 9:24GAL 6:92TI 2:3REV 22:12This sermon emphasizes the importance of being real in the Christian life, avoiding hypocrisy and pretense. It encourages believers to be themselves, not seeking to appear more spiritual than they are, but to be content with who they are. The sermon also highlights the need for believers to trust in God's acceptance, regardless of worldly achievements or appearances, and to focus on being faithful soldiers, disciplined athletes, and hard-working farmers in their spiritual journey.
Your Funeral Service
By Hans R. Waldvogel1.4K35:38FuneralMAT 25:11CO 9:24HEB 6:19In this sermon, the preacher begins by sharing how a large number of people initially attended their meetings, including many children who were later forbidden to attend by the priest. The preacher recounts an incident where a person cursed the priest and shortly after, died from touching an electric wire. The sermon then shifts to the topic of death, emphasizing its sudden and unexpected nature. The preacher urges the audience to focus on their relationship with God and not be attached to worldly pleasures, as the world is temporary. The sermon concludes with a reference to the parable of the ten virgins and the importance of being prepared for the judgment day.
Missions Fest Sunday
By Jackie Pullinger1.3K40:54MissionsMAT 6:33MAT 16:241CO 9:24GAL 5:9PHP 3:14HEB 12:1JAS 1:22In this sermon, the speaker shares the story of Caleb from the Bible and encourages the audience to run the race of faith in order to reach the prize. He emphasizes the importance of expressing faith through love and taking action to help those in need. The speaker challenges the audience to not become desensitized to the suffering of others and to actively engage in acts of compassion and service. He reminds them that everyone has different needs and reasons for their circumstances, and it is their responsibility to see and respond to those needs.
Running the Race in the Spirits Power Heb 11+12
By George Verwer1.2K42:47Hebrews 11-12MAT 6:331CO 9:241CO 9:27HEB 12:2In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being committed to God's race. He expresses concern that many Christians lack the level of commitment seen in the book of Acts. The preacher believes that revival in Britain can only happen if believers are willing to pay the price through prayer and seeking God's face. He draws parallels between the Christian life and a marathon race, highlighting the need for discipline and perseverance. The preacher also references Paul's words in 1 Corinthians 9 about buffeting the body and bringing it under control as a key to spiritual growth.
Stirred by the Holy Spirit to Serve God
By Joshua Daniel1.2K28:37EZR 1:2MRK 16:15ROM 8:111CO 9:241CO 15:58PHP 3:8COL 3:2HEB 12:11PE 4:10
This sermon by Joshua Daniel emphasizes the importance of being stirred by the Holy Spirit to fulfill God's calling, drawing parallels to the story of Cyrus in the book of Ezra who was moved to build the house of God. The message challenges listeners to prioritize spiritual pursuits over materialism, highlighting the need for sacrificial commitment in spreading the good news of Jesus Christ to all nations, even in the face of crises and opposition.
Falling Stars - a Message for Preachers
By Erlo Stegen1.1K57:42EXO 33:15MAT 5:14JHN 8:12ROM 8:191CO 9:24PHP 2:151TH 5:52TI 3:11PE 2:9REV 12:4This sermon reflects on the encounter of the two disciples with the Lord Jesus on the road to Emmaus, drawing parallels between the approaching darkness in the world and the need for Jesus to abide with us. It emphasizes the importance of not being sidetracked by worldly distractions and the necessity of seeking God's presence amidst the increasing darkness in the world. The message underscores the significance of repentance, removing sin, and striving for unity among believers to invite God's presence and revival.
Death of George Whitefield
By E.A. Johnston1.0K12:01BiographyPSA 39:4PSA 90:12PRO 27:1MAT 5:16MAT 6:331CO 9:242CO 13:5In the sermon transcripts, it is described how George Whitfield, a preacher of the word of God, was approached by a crowd at the home of Parsons, asking him to give them a final message before retiring. Whitfield agrees to preach until a candle burns out, symbolizing his dedication to spreading the gospel of Christ. Despite his physical ailments, including asthma and possibly emphysema, Whitfield pours his heart out to the crowd from a staircase landing, presenting his master Emmanuel. Another instance is mentioned where Whitfield, despite feeling poor and desiring rest, agrees to preach to a large crowd in Exeter. Despite his worsening asthma, he continues to prioritize preaching and even expresses concern about his ability to fulfill future preaching engagements.
The Real Race
By Erlo Stegen1.0K1:19:251CO 9:24In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of running the race of life with certainty and according to the rules. He uses the analogy of a sword fight to illustrate the need for focus and direction in our spiritual journey. The speaker also highlights the dedication and preparation required to participate in the ancient Greek games, comparing it to the discipline needed to follow God's word. He concludes by reading from 1 Corinthians 9:24-27, which encourages believers to run the race in a way that they may obtain the imperishable crown. The sermon emphasizes the need for self-control and discipline in order to avoid disqualification.
The Last Try
By Ralph Sexton89440:361CO 1:11CO 3:11CO 9:24In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of making a decision to serve God and run the race of faith. He highlights the need for believers to have joy, victory, and authority in their lives, so that the world can see the difference God has made in them. The preacher also discusses the privilege of winning the race and receiving a crown, which grants believers the opportunity to approach the throne of God and receive His forgiveness, restoration, and blessings. He mentions the significance of this privilege by explaining how in ancient games, there were measures taken to prevent cheating and ensure that the winner received the rewards and privileges associated with the crown.
Op World 1 Sun 1982
By George Verwer85332:45Operation WorldMAT 6:33JHN 3:16JHN 14:6ACT 4:31ROM 8:281CO 9:24In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of believing in Jesus as the only way to the Father. He shares his personal journey of doubt and how John 14:6 revolutionized his life. The speaker also discusses the mission of Operation Mobilization and the need for a spiritual revolution for world evangelization. He encourages believers to recognize their own limitations and to rely on the Holy Spirit's power in their lives.
The Footsteps of the Flock #4
By Stephen Kaung81837:031CO 9:24In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of holiness and sanctification in the church. He warns against returning to the sins of the world and urges believers to follow the footsteps of the flock, rather than the footsteps of the wolf. The sermon also addresses the issue of discipline and indulgence, highlighting the need for self-control and temperance. Additionally, the preacher discusses the themes of believing and obedience versus doubt and disobedience, emphasizing the importance of unity in the church.
Aims & Goals Towards Ad2000
By George Verwer64257:11Missions1CO 9:24In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of staying focused on the overall goal and aim of spreading the gospel and building the church. He mentions the 82,000 movement, which is coming to a close, but emphasizes that the vision will continue. The speaker also talks about the need for teamwork and the willingness to do even the smallest tasks in service to God. He concludes by highlighting the commitment required to be on God's team and the willingness to go the extra mile in reaching as many people as possible.
Undisciplined Lifestyles (Part 1)
By Mose Stoltzfus6391:05:351CO 9:24In this sermon, the speaker begins by referencing 1 Corinthians 9:24-27, which talks about running a race and receiving a prize. He emphasizes the importance of conducting oneself temperately and restricting oneself in all things, just like athletes do in training. The speaker then expresses gratitude for the opportunity to seek God's face and repent of sins with a group of men. He encourages the audience to make changes in their lives, specifically in the area of self-control and temperance, in order to feel like true Christians again. The sermon concludes with a call to repentance and a reminder that indulging in excess can make one sluggish and lethargic.
Undisciplined Lifestyles (Part 2)
By Mose Stoltzfus6041:11:58PRO 11:24PRO 22:7MAT 6:33LUK 12:151CO 9:241TI 6:10JAS 5:5In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of discipline and self-control in the Christian life. He compares the Christian's journey to a race, where one must keep their body under control in order to win the prize. The preacher also highlights the dangers of living in a prosperous and peaceful society, as it can lead to complacency and a lack of appreciation for the sacrifices of others. He uses the example of John Wesley, who lived a simple and modest lifestyle despite his success, as a role model for Christians to follow. The sermon encourages believers to prioritize the needs of others and to resist the temptations of luxury and self-indulgence.
(Through the Bible) 1 Corinthians - Part 2
By Zac Poonen53757:231CO 6:181CO 7:21CO 9:241CO 12:121CO 13:41CO 14:51CO 14:271CO 14:311CO 15:421CO 16:14
This sermon delves into the importance of understanding and applying the teachings from 1 Corinthians, emphasizing the need to overcome temptations, maintain purity in relationships, and operate in the gifts of the Holy Spirit within the context of love and unity in the body of Christ. It highlights the significance of running away from immorality, the purpose of marriage as a protection, the need for self-control and faithfulness, the value of surrendering individual gifts for the benefit of the church, and the essential role of love in all aspects of Christian life and ministry.
In God's Race (Keswick Convention)
By George Verwer50843:58Christian Life1CO 9:24HEB 12:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that as believers, we are in God's race. He encourages the audience to examine their hearts and be honest about themselves, even if it may be painful. The speaker mentions that sometimes Christians create barriers to avoid facing the truth about themselves, but emphasizes that there can be no gain without pain. The sermon also references the film "Chariots of Fire" and the story of Eric Little, who later became a missionary. The speaker uses this story to illustrate the determination and perseverance required in the Christian race.
Getting Into the Race
By George Verwer5031:07:47Christian Life1CO 9:241CO 9:26HEB 12:1In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of being committed to the race of life and not giving up. He mentions a film about two Cambridge men in the 20s, one of them being Jewish, who made a significant impact at the Olympics. The speaker also talks about the world's obsession with sports and running, comparing it to America's space shuttle program. He emphasizes the need for believers to befriend and love foreigners before sharing the gospel with them. Additionally, the speaker mentions the importance of prayer and the reality of suffering in the world.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
They which run in a race run all - It is sufficiently evident that the apostle alludes to the athletic exercises in the games which were celebrated every fifth year on the isthmus, or narrow neck of land, which joins the Peloponnesus, or Morea, to the main land; and were thence termed the Isthmian games. The exercises were running, wrestling, boxing, throwing the discus or quoit, etc.; to the three first of these the apostle especially alludes. But one receiveth the prize? - The apostle places the Christian race in contrast to the Isthmian games; in them, only one received the prize, though all ran; in this, if all run, all will receive the prize; therefore he says, So run that ye may obtain. Be as much in earnest to get to heaven as others are to gain their prize; and, although only one of them can win, all of you may obtain.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Know ye not--The Isthmian games, in which the foot race was a leading one, were of course well known, and a subject of patriotic pride to the Corinthians, who lived in the immediate neighborhood. These periodical games were to the Greeks rather a passion than a mere amusement: hence their suitableness as an image of Christian earnestness. in a race--Greek, "in a race course." all . . . one--Although we knew that one alone could be saved, still it Would be well worth our while to run [BENGEL]. Even in the Christian race not "all" who enter on the race win (Co1 10:1-5). So run, that ye may obtain--said parenthetically. These are the words in which the instructors of the young in the exercise schools (gymnasia) and the spectators on the race course exhorted their pupils to stimulate them to put forth all exertions. The gymnasium was a prominent feature in every Greek city. Every candidate had to take an oath that he had been ten months in training, and that he would violate none of the regulations (Ti2 2:5; compare Ti1 4:7-8). He lived on a strict self-denying diet, refraining from wine and pleasant foods, and enduring cold and heat and most laborious discipline. The "prize" awarded by the judge or umpire was a chaplet of green leaves; at the Isthmus, those of the indigenous pine, for which parsley leaves were temporarily substituted (Co1 9:25). The Greek for "obtain" is fully obtain. It is in vain to begin, unless we persevere to the end (Mat 10:22; Mat 24:13; Rev 2:10). The "so" expresses, Run with such perseverance in the heavenly course, as "all" the runners exhibit in the earthly "race" just spoken of: to the end that ye may attain the prize.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And every man that striveth for the mastery,.... Either in running a race, or in wrestling; for the word here used agrees with both, and both are in the context referred to, nor has the apostle as yet done with his allusion to running in a race; is temperate in all things; contains himself from venery, abstains from certain sorts of food, which tend to hinder the agility, or weaken the strength of the body; and indulges not himself in sloth and idleness, but exercises himself in various manners, that he may be prepared for running or wrestling: the apostle's view in this, seems to be to strengthen some exhortations he had already given, to abstain from fornication, and the immoderate use of venery; to forbear eating things offered to idols, and not give themselves up to luxury and intemperance; for should they be overcharged with surfeiting and drunkenness, and the cares of this life, they would be very unfit for their Christian race, or for wrestling with principalities and powers, and the discharging of the business of a Christian profession: now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; they confine themselves to a certain diet and course of living, and abstain from things otherwise desirable to nature; and this they do for the sake of a fading crown, a crown of leaves, made of the boughs and leaves of olives, laurels, pine, &c. or of parsley, green or dried, as before observed (t): but we an incorruptible; even eternal life; compared to a crown, for the riches, glory, and lustre of it; and as suitable to the character and dignity of saints, who are kings as well as priests unto God: it is called "incorruptible", because it is so in its own nature; nor can it be corrupted by other things, as crowns even of gold may; nor shall any corrupt person wear it; the corruption of nature must be removed from the saints, yea, that frailty and mortality of human nature, which sometimes goes by the name of corruption, must be taken away, ere they can inherit this crown and kingdom; nor will it ever fade away, as the corruptible crowns of the conquerors in these games did, and that in a very short time; but this will last for ever, and always continue in the same glory and lustre. (t) Vid. Alex. ab Alex, Genial. Dier. l. 5. c. 8.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
In these verses the apostle hints at the great encouragement he had to act in this manner. He had a glorious prize, an incorruptible crown, in view. Upon this head he compares himself to the racers and combatants in the Isthmian games, an allusion well known to the Corinthians, because they were celebrated in their neighbourhood: "Know you not that those who run in a race run all, but one obtaineth the prize? Co1 9:24. All run at your games, but only one gets the race and wins the crown." And here, I. He excites them to their duty: "So run that you may obtain. It is quite otherwise in the Christian race than in your races; only one wins the prize in them. You may all run so as to obtain. You have great encouragement, therefore, to persist constantly, and diligently, and vigorously, in your course. There is room for all to get the prize. You cannot fail if you run well. Yet there should be a noble emulation; you should endeavour to outdo one another. And it is a glorious contest who shall get first to heaven, or have the best rewards in that blessed world. I make it my endeavour to run; so do you, as you see me go before you." Note, It is the duty of Christians to follow their ministers closely in the chase of eternal glory, and the honour and duty of ministers to lead them in the way. II. He directs them in their course, by setting more fully to view his own example, still carrying on the allusion. 1. Those that ran in their games were kept to a set diet: "Every man that strives for the mastery is temperate in all things, Co1 9:23. The fighters and wrestlers in your exercises are kept to strict diet and discipline; nay, they keep themselves to it. They do not indulge themselves, but restrain themselves from the food they eat and so from the liberties they use on other occasions. And should not Christians much more abridge themselves of their liberty, for so glorious an end as winning the race, and obtaining the prize set before them? They used a very spare diet, and course food, and denied themselves much, to prepare for their race and combat; so do I; so should you, after my example. It is hard if, for the heavenly crown, you cannot abstain from heathen sacrifices." 2. They were not only temperate, but inured themselves to hardships. Those who fought with one another in these exercises prepared themselves by beating the air, as the apostle calls it, or by throwing out their arms, and thereby inuring themselves, beforehand, to deal about their blows in close combat, or brandish them by way of flourish. There is no room for any such exercise in the Christian warfare. Christians are ever in close combat. There enemies make fierce and hearty opposition, and are ever at hand; and for this reason they must lay about them in earnest, and never drop the contest, nor flag and faint in it. They must fight, not as those that beat the air, but must strive against their enemies with all their might. One enemy the apostle here mentions, namely, the body; this must be kept under, beaten black and blue, as the combatants were in these Grecian games, and thereby brought into subjection. By the body we are to understand fleshly appetites and inclinations. These the apostle set himself to curb and conquer, and in this the Corinthians were bound to imitate him. Note, Those who would aright pursue the interests of their souls must beat down their bodies, and keep them under. They must combat hard with fleshly lusts, and not indulge a wanton appetite, and long for heathenish sacrifices, nor eat them, to please their flesh, at the hazard of their brethren's souls. The body must be made to serve the mind, not suffered to lord over it. III. The apostle presses this advice on the Corinthians by proper arguments drawn from the same contenders. 1. They take pains, and undergo all those hardships, to obtain a corruptible crown (Co1 9:25), but we an incorruptible. Those who conquered in these games were crowned only with the withering leaves or boughs of trees, of olive, bays, or laurel. But Christians have an incorruptible crown in view, a crown of glory that never fadeth away, an inheritance incorruptible, reserved in heaven for them. And would they yet suffer themselves to be outdone by these racers or wrestlers? Can they use abstinence in diet, exert themselves in racing, expose their bodies to so much hardship in a combat, who have no more in view than the trifling huzzas of a giddy multitude, or a crown of leaves? And shall not Christians, who hope for the approbation of the sovereign Judge, and a crown of glory from his hands, stretch forward in the heavenly race, and exert themselves in beating down their fleshly inclinations, and the strong-holds of sin? 2. The racers in these games run at uncertainty. All run, but one receives the prize, Co1 9:24. Every racer, therefore, is at a great uncertainty whether he shall win it or no. But the Christian racer is at no such uncertainty. Every one may run here so as to obtain; but then he must run within the lines, he must keep to the path of duty prescribed, which, some think, is the meaning of running not as uncertainly, Co1 9:26. He who keeps within the limits prescribed, and keeps on in his race, will never miss his crown, though others may get theirs before him. And would the Grecian racers keep within their bounds, and exert themselves to the very last, when one only could win, and all must be uncertain which that one would be? And shall not Christians be much more exact and vigorous when all are sure of a crown when they come to the end of their race? 3. He sets before himself and them the danger of yielding to fleshly inclinations, and pampering the body and its lusts and appetites: I keep my body under, lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a cast-away (Co1 9:27), rejected, disapproved, adokimos, one to whom the brabeutēs - the judge or umpire of the race, will not decree the crown. The allusion to the games runs through the whole sentence. Note, A preacher of salvation may yet miss it. He may show others the way to heaven, and never get thither himself. To prevent this, Paul took so much pains in subduing and keeping under bodily inclinations, lest by any means he himself, who had preached to others, should yet miss the crown, be disapproved and rejected by his sovereign Judge. A holy fear of himself was necessary to preserve the fidelity of an apostle; and how much more necessary is it to our preservation? Note, Holy fear of ourselves, and not presumptuous confidence, is the best security against apostasy from God, and final rejection by him.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
9:24-27 To illustrate how seriously the Corinthians must take the discipline of their salvation, Paul alludes to the familiar Isthmian games, an athletic competition held every two years in Corinth. • All athletes are disciplined: Strict self-discipline is required for athletes competing for a prize. In Paul’s day, athletes endured months of rigorous training before competing. In the same way, strict self-discipline (cp. Gal 5:22-23) is required if a person is to gain the eternal prize of salvation. Christians must submit to the daily discipline of obeying Christ. • a prize that will fade away: Athletic prizes were often wreaths made out of laurel leaves (cp. 2 Tim 4:8; Jas 1:12; 1 Pet 5:4; Rev 2:10).