1 Corinthians 9:27
Verse
Context
Sermons
A.W. Tozer
Leonard Ravenhill
William MacDonald
Richard Baxter
Zac Poonen
John Rhys WatkinsSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But I keep under my body, etc. - This is an allusion, not only to boxers, but also to wrestlers in the same games, as we learn from the word ὑπωπιαζω, which signifies to hit in the eyes; and δουλαγωγω, which signifies to trip, and give the antagonist a fall, and then keep him down when he was down, and having obliged him to acknowledge himself conquered, make him a slave. The apostle considers his body as an enemy with which he must contend; he must mortify it by self-denial, abstinence, and severe labor; it must be the slave of his soul, and not the soul the slave of the body, which in all unregenerate men is the case. Lest - having preached to others - The word κηρυξας, which we translate having preached, refers to the office of the κηρυξ, or herald, at these games, whose business it was to proclaim the conditions of the games, display the prizes, exhort the combatants, excite the emulation of those who were to contend, declare the terms of each contest, pronounce the name of the victors, and put the crown on their heads. See my observations on this office in the notes at Mat 3:17. Should be a castaway - The word αδοκιμος signifies such a person as the βραβευται, or judges of the games, reject as not having deserved the prize. So Paul himself might be rejected by the great Judge; and to prevent this, he ran, he contended, he denied himself, and brought his body into subjection to his spirit, and had his spirit governed by the Spirit of God. Had this heavenly man lived in our days, he would by a certain class of people have been deemed a legalist; a people who widely differ from the practice of the apostle, for they are conformed to the world, and they feed themselves without fear. On the various important subjects in this chapter I have already spoken in great detail; not, indeed, all that might be said, but as much as is necessary. A few general observations will serve to recapitulate and impress what has been already said. 1. St. Paul contends that a preacher of the Gospel has a right to his support; and he has proved this from the law, from the Gospel, and from the common sense and consent of men. If a man who does not labor takes his maintenance from the Church of God, it is not only a domestic theft but a sacrilege. He that gives up his time to this labor has a right to the support of himself and family: he who takes more than is sufficient for this purpose is a covetous hireling. He who does nothing for the cause of God and religion, and yet obliges the Church to support him, and minister to his idleness, irregularities, luxury, avarice, and ambition, is a monster for whom human language has not yet got a name. 2. Those who refuse the laborer his hire are condemned by God and by good men. How liberal are many to public places of amusement, or to some popular charity, where their names are sure to be published abroad; while the man who watches over their souls is fed with the most parsimonious hand! Will not God abate this pride and reprove this hard-heartedness? 3. As the husbandman plows and sows in hope, and the God of providence makes him a partaker of his hope, let the upright preachers of God's word take example and encouragement by him. Let them labor in hope; God will not permit them to spend their strength for nought. Though much of their seed, through the fault of the bad ground, may be unfruitful, yet some will spring up unto eternal life. 4. St. Paul became all things to all men, that he might gain all. This was not the effect of a fickle or man-pleasing disposition; no man was ever of a more firm or decided character than St. Paul; but whenever he could with a good conscience yield so as to please his neighbor for his good to edification, he did so; and his yielding disposition was a proof of the greatness of his soul. The unyielding and obstinate mind is always a little mind: a want of true greatness always produces obstinacy and peevishness. Such a person as St. Paul is a blessing wherever he goes: on the contrary, the obstinate, hoggish man, is either a general curse, or a general cross; and if a preacher of the Gospel, his is a burthensome ministry. Reader, let me ask thee a question: If there be no gentleness in thy manners, is there any in thy heart? If there be little of Christ without, can there be much of Christ within? 5. A few general observations on the Grecian games may serve to recapitulate the subject in the four last verses. 1. The Isthmian games were celebrated among the Corinthians; and therefore the apostle addresses them, Co1 9:24 : Know ye not, etc. 2. Of the five games there used, the apostle speaks only of three. Running; Co1 9:24 : They which run in a race; and Co1 9:26 : I therefore so run, not as uncertainly. Wrestling, Co1 9:25 : Every man that striveth; ὁ αγωνιζομενος, he who wrestleth. Boxing, Co1 9:26, Co1 9:27 : So fight I, not as one that beateth the air; οὑτω πυκτευω, so fist I, so I hit; but I keep my body under; ὑπωπιαζω, I hit in the eye, I make the face black and blue. 3. He who won the race by running was to observe the laws of racing - keeping within the white line which marked out the path or compass in which they ran; and he was also to outrun the rest, and to come first to the goal; otherwise he ran uncertainly, Co1 9:24, Co1 9:26, and was αδοκιμος, one to whom the prize could not be judged by the judges of the games. 4. The athletic combatants, or wrestlers, observed a set diet. See the quotation from Epictetus, under Co1 9:25. And this was a regimen both for quantity and quality; and they carefully abstained from all things that might render them less able for the combat; whence the apostle says they were temperate in all things, Co1 9:25. 5. No person who was not of respectable family and connections was permitted to be a competitor at the Olympic games. St. Chrysostom, in whose time these games were still celebrated, assures us that no man was suffered to enter the lists who was either a servant or a slave, ουδεις αγωνιζεται δουλος, ουδεις στρατευεται οικετης· and if any such was found who had got himself inserted on the military list, his name was erased, and he was expelled and punished. Αλλ' εαν ἁλῳ δουλος ων, μετα τιμωριας εκβαλλεται του των στρατιωτων καταολου. To prevent any person of bad character from entering the list at the Olympic games, the kerux, or herald, was accustomed to proclaim aloud in the theater when the combatant was brought forth: Μη τις τουτου κατηγορει; ὡστε αυτον αποσκευασαμενον της δουλειας την ὑποψιαν οὑτως εις τους αγωνας εμβηναι· Who can accuse this man? For which he gives this reason: "that being free from all suspicion of being in a state of slavery, (and elsewhere he says of being a thief, or of corrupt morals), he might enter the lists with credit." Chrysost. Homil. in Inscript. Altaris, etc., vol. iii. page 59, Edit. Benedict. 6. The boxers used to prepare themselves by a sort of σκιαμαχια, or going through all their postures of defense and attack when no adversary was before them. This was termed beating the air, Co1 9:26; but when such came to the combat, they endeavored to blind their adversaries by hitting them in the eye, which is the meaning of ὑπωπιαζειν, as we have seen under Co1 9:27. 7. The rewards of all these exercises were only a crown made of the leaves of some plant, or the bough of some tree; the olive, bay, laurel, parsley, etc., called here by the apostle φθαρτον στεφανον, a corruptible, withering, and fading crown; while he and his fellow Christians expected a crown incorruptible and immortal, and that could not fade away. 8. On the subject of the possibility of St. Paul becoming a castaway, much has been said in contradiction to his own words. He most absolutely states the possibility of the case: and who has a right to call this in question? The ancient Greek commentators, as Whitby has remarked, have made a good use of the apostle's saying, Ει δε Παυλος τουτο δεδοικεν ὁ τοσουτους διδαξας, τι αν ειποιμεν ἡμεις; "If Paul, so great a man, one who had preached and labored so much, dreaded this, what cause have we to fear lest this should befall us?" 9. On the necessity of being workers together with God, in order to avoid apostasy, Clemens Alexandrinus has some useful observations in his Stromata, lib. vii., page 448, Edit. Oberthur: Ὡς δε, says he, ὁ ιατρος ὑγειαν παρεχεται τοις συνεργουσι προς ὑγειαν, οὑτως και ὁ Θεος την αΐδιον σωτηριαν τοις συνεργουσι προς γνωσιν τε και ευπραγιαν· "As a physician gives health to those who cooperate with him in their cure; so God also gives eternal salvation to them who are workers together with him in knowledge and a godly life." "Therefore," says he, "it is well said among the Greeks, that when a certain wrestler, who had long inured his body to manly exercises, was going to the Olympic games, as he was passing by the statue of Jupiter he offered up this prayer: Ει παντα, ω Ζευ, δεοντως μοι τα προς τον αγωνα ταρεσκευασται, αποδος φερων δικαιως την νικην εμοι· 'O Jupiter, if I have performed every thing as I ought in reference to this contest, grant me the victory!'" May we not feel something of this spirit in seeking the kingdom of God? And can any thing of this kind be supposed to derogate from the glory of Christ? St. Paul himself says, if a man contend for the mastery, yet is he not crowned except he strive lawfully. Shall we pretend to be wiser than the apostle; and say, that we may gain the crown, though we neither fight the good fight nor finish the course?
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
keep under--literally, "bruise the face under the eyes," so as to render it black and blue; so, to chastise in the most sensitive part. Compare "mortify the deeds of the body," Rom 8:13; also Pe1 2:11. It is not ascetic fasts or macerations of the body which are here recommended, but the keeping under of our natural self-seeking, so as, like Paul, to lay ourselves out entirely for the great work. my body--the old man and the remainders of lust in my flesh. "My body," so far as by the flesh it opposes the spirit [ESTIUS] (Gal 5:17). Men may be severe to their bodies and yet indulge their lust. Ascetic "neglect of the body" may be all the while a more subtile "satisfying of the flesh" (Col 2:23). Unless the soul keep the body under, the body will get above the soul. The body may be made a good servant, but is a bad master. bring it into subjection--or bondage, as a slave or servant led away captive; so the Greek. preached--literally, "heralded." He keeps up the image from the races. The heralds summoned the candidates for the foot race into the race course [PLATO, Laws, 8.833], and placed the crowns on the brows of the conquerors, announcing their names [BENGEL]. They probably proclaimed also the laws of the combat; answering to the preaching of the apostles [ALFORD]. The The Christian herald is also a combatant, in which respect he is distinguished from the herald at the games. a castaway--failing shamefully of the prize myself, after I have called others to the contest. Rejected by God, the Judge of the Christian race, notwithstanding my having, by my preaching, led others to be accepted. Compare the equivalent term, "reprobate," Jer 6:30; Co2 13:6. Paul implies, if such earnest, self-denying watchfulness over himself be needed still, with all his labors for others, to make his own calling sure, much more is the same needed by the Corinthians, instead of their going, as they do, to the extreme limit of Christian liberty. Next: 1 Corinthians Chapter 10
Tyndale Open Study Notes
9:27 I fear that . . . I myself might be disqualified: Those who are disqualified from a sporting event have no hope of winning the prize. To avoid losing the eternal prize, Paul disciplined himself severely, like an athlete, so that he would not be led away from Christ into a life of sin (see 9:25; Heb 12:1).
1 Corinthians 9:27
Run Your Race to Win
26Therefore I do not run aimlessly; I do not fight like I am beating the air.27No, I discipline my body and make it my slave, so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Doctrine of the Remnant - Part 1
By A.W. Tozer6.1K41:13RemnantISA 1:15EZK 9:4MAT 15:8ROM 11:41CO 9:27In this sermon, the preacher begins by praying for mercy upon America and for people to turn away from idols and serve God. He emphasizes the importance of not just worshiping God with our lips, but also with our lives. The preacher urges the listeners to have a personal relationship with God and to seek Him before they sleep. He then references a passage from the Bible about a remnant of people who were marked for their sorrow and disgust over the abominations in their city. The preacher encourages the audience to be like this remnant and stand against the sinful practices of the world.
If Any Man Be in Christ - Part 4 (Cd Quality)
By Leonard Ravenhill6.0K38:59Christ In YouPSA 33:2MAT 6:33JHN 3:16ROM 12:11CO 9:271CO 13:3EPH 5:25In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of dedicating our bodies to the Lord. He refers to Psalm 59, which describes the body as an instrument with ten strings, representing our various body parts. The preacher warns against gossip and highlights the negative impact it can have on the church. He also criticizes the mindset of some preachers who prioritize comfort and luxury over self-discipline and sacrifice. The sermon concludes with a reminder that our choices in this life have eternal consequences, and there is no turning back once we pass from time into eternity.
Audio Sermon: Backsliding
By William MacDonald2.5K1:01:01PSA 51:10PSA 103:12PRO 28:13JOL 2:25JON 3:1ROM 7:181CO 9:27HEB 11:3JAS 4:81JN 1:9
This sermon delves into the theme of backsliding, exploring the consequences and the way back to God's grace. It emphasizes the importance of confession, forsaking sin, and seeking restoration in relationships. The speaker highlights the need for a thorough spiritual house cleaning, including mending broken relationships and living daily in fellowship with the Lord. The message reassures believers of God's willingness to restore and redeem, offering a second chance to those who come back to Him.
Take Heed to Yourselves
By Richard Baxter2.4K31:03Audio BooksMAT 7:21MAT 25:40MRK 12:31ROM 8:301CO 9:271TI 4:16JAS 1:22In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not being slothful in business but fervent in spirit. He urges the audience to lose no time and to diligently study, pray, confer, and practice in order to increase their abilities. The preacher warns against behaving weakly or with indifference when delivering God's message, as it can dishonor God and hinder the work of conversion. He also reminds the audience to be mindful of the scrutiny of the world and to walk circumspectly, redeeming the time because the days are evil. The sermon emphasizes the need for holy skill in preaching and the importance of honoring God in the delivery of His message.
(Church Leadership) 9. a Disciplined Tongue
By Zac Poonen2.2K58:46PSA 12:6JER 15:19MAT 6:331CO 9:27GAL 5:22EPH 5:15In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of discipline in our lives as believers. He highlights the need to value and redeem our time, avoiding wasting it in daydreaming or being bored during church meetings. The speaker encourages listeners to have a sober estimate of themselves and to make church meetings interesting to prevent driving away young people. He also shares a story about D.L. Moody, illustrating the importance of discipline in the use of our tongue. The sermon concludes with a call to be disciplined in all areas of life and to seek self-control through the Holy Spirit.
Sanctification : 3. a Disciplined Body
By Zac Poonen2.1K1:00:17SanctificationEXO 32:6MAT 6:331CO 9:271CO 10:61CO 10:111TH 5:23JAS 1:26In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a disciplined body as part of the process of entire sanctification. He highlights that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit and should be respected accordingly. The speaker encourages believers to ask themselves four questions when it comes to their actions and behaviors: Did Jesus do it? Did Jesus teach it? Did the apostles do it? Did the apostles teach it? The speaker warns against hypocrisy and the danger of preaching powerful messages while failing to discipline one's own body. He references 1 Corinthians 9:27, where Paul urges believers to control their eyes and make them their slaves to avoid disqualification in their ministry. The speaker also mentions the example of the Israelites who left Egypt but were disqualified by God due to their indulgence in lustful desires.
The Dreamer
By John Rhys Watkins1.7K52:46DreamsGEN 37:32CH 7:14PSA 27:8PSA 51:17MAT 15:91CO 9:27REV 3:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of surrendering to the will of God and living a selfless life. He uses the story of Joseph to illustrate how even in the face of adversity and unfulfilled dreams, we must remain faithful to God's promises. The preacher also highlights the need for revival in the church and urges believers to be honest with themselves and with God. He warns against being deceived by false movements and emphasizes the importance of manifesting the life of Christ to the world.
A Leaders Worst Nightmare
By Alan Stewart1.5K50:04LeadershipRevival1SA 9:21SA 15:261SA 16:142SA 1:101KI 11:14PSA 139:23MAT 22:37JHN 21:151CO 9:272CO 4:2Alan Stewart delivers a powerful sermon titled 'A Leader's Worst Nightmare,' reflecting on the life of King Saul as a cautionary tale for leaders in ministry. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining God's favor and touch in our lives, warning against the dangers of mistrusting God's plan and misusing our positions. Stewart shares personal anecdotes and biblical examples to illustrate how leaders can fall from grace, ultimately urging the audience to seek genuine revival through a deep love for Jesus. He concludes with a heartfelt call for self-examination and repentance, reminding all leaders that their greatest fear should be losing their connection with God.
The Resurrection & the Believer
By Charles E. Fuller1.3K50:00Resurrection1CO 9:27EPH 5:112PE 3:9In this sermon transcript, the preacher begins by expressing gratitude for the support that allows them to spread the good news through radio broadcasts. The congregation is encouraged to sing a hymn for those going through difficult times. The preacher then acknowledges the joy of being able to understand and connect with the message without translation. The sermon includes references to hymns and the importance of faithfulness and salvation through Jesus Christ. The preacher also mentions receiving letters from listeners and asks for prayers for those in hospitals and on the battlefields.
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.
Life --- Battleground, Not Playground
By Shane Idleman1.1K03:111CO 9:272CO 10:4EPH 6:122TI 2:15HEB 4:12
This sermon emphasizes the transformative power of God's Word in our lives, highlighting the need for daily engagement with Scripture to bring repentance, improve relationships, and restrain evil. It stresses the importance of discipline and self-control, especially for those in leadership roles, to avoid hypocrisy and effectively serve others. The message underscores the spiritual battle Christians face, encouraging the use of spiritual weapons to overcome strongholds and align thoughts with obedience to Christ.
Lukewarm No More - Part 6
By George Verwer99209:56LukewarmMAT 7:21MAT 16:24JHN 14:61CO 9:27EPH 4:26JAS 1:221JN 1:8In this sermon, the speaker reflects on a business meeting he attended where the topic of rejection was discussed. The message on rejection resonated with many people, as evidenced by the high distribution of the tape recording of the sermon. The speaker acknowledges his own weaknesses and limitations, as well as the time constraints we all face. He emphasizes the importance of living a faithful and committed life, using his own 35-year marriage as an example. The speaker also highlights the reality of spiritual warfare and the need to actively engage in the Christian walk, rather than living a double life. He challenges listeners to examine their own level of passion and commitment to Jesus, and emphasizes the importance of a deep relationship with Him. The sermon also touches on the topic of missions and the need for a greater walk with Jesus in order to effectively engage in spreading the Gospel.
Teach Us How to Worship
By Shane Idleman72649:16PSA 29:2PSA 96:9PSA 99:5ROM 12:11CO 9:27JAS 4:101PE 5:6This sermon emphasizes the importance of true worship, highlighting the need to remove hindrances like spiritual pride, unforgiveness, and distractions that prevent heartfelt worship. It stresses the significance of a broken and humble heart before God, calling for submission, prioritizing time with God, preparation through discipline, and the removal of worship blockers to experience a life of genuine worship and spiritual transformation.
Unstoppable
By Jim Cymbala71825:37Christian LifeDEU 25:3MAT 24:13ACT 14:21ROM 3:231CO 9:27GAL 6:142TI 2:3In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being prepared for spiritual battles by understanding how the enemy works. He compares this to studying film before a sports game to anticipate the opponent's moves. The speaker encourages believers to live boldly and fearlessly, knowing that they will live eternally with Jesus. He also highlights the need for ministers to work hard and not treat the ministry as a retirement plan. The speaker concludes by challenging the congregation to refrain from complaining for a week and to never back down in their faith.
Practical Steps to Missions
By George Verwer70857:58PSA 2:8MAT 6:33MAT 28:19ACT 1:81CO 9:272TI 2:3In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being witnesses for God in every part of the world. He mentions the example of William Carey, who faced opposition but believed in the command of Jesus to preach the gospel to every person. The speaker encourages the audience to commit themselves to world missions and to set aside specific time for information and prayer. He also highlights the need for discipline in our lives, including how we use our time, money, and engage in small talk. The speaker challenges young people in particular to be more involved in missionary work.
Letters to 7 Churches 09 Phila.-Committed Heart
By James Booker70344:48ROM 6:191CO 9:271TH 4:7In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the passage in Revelation 3:7-13, specifically addressing the church in Philadelphia. The sermon emphasizes that God is the ultimate provider for those who serve Him. The preacher highlights four provisions that God offers: His word, His name, His patience, and His presence. The sermon also emphasizes the importance of following Christ's character, conduct, and control in our service to the Lord. The preacher encourages believers to live a life that aligns with the truth of their message and to strive for holiness and commitment to God, just as Jesus did during His earthly ministry.
Running to Win
By Santosh Poonen69550:271CO 9:27
This sermon emphasizes the importance of running the race of life with a focus on becoming more like Jesus. It highlights the transformation God desires to bring in individuals, marriages, relationships, and churches by fixing our eyes on the goal of being conformed to the image of Christ. The speaker encourages running as if to win, pressing forward with faith and determination towards the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
Taking Spiritual Inventory
By George Verwer65738:41MAT 6:331CO 9:27HEB 12:1In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of running a race as a metaphor for the Christian life. He references Hebrews 12 and 1 Corinthians 9, where the apostle Paul talks about the importance of discipline and self-control in order to avoid being disqualified. The speaker expresses concern that many Christians are not fully committed to their faith and are playing games instead of living out the kind of commitment seen in the book of Acts. He also mentions the need for spiritual balance and the importance of Christian literature in the church.
Evangelistic Conference 1978 (Mcmaster University) - Part 1
By George Verwer61540:36ConferenceMAT 6:33ACT 20:19ACT 20:27ACT 20:32ACT 20:351CO 9:27In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of staying true to the word of God and being aware of false teachings. He warns the audience to be vigilant and remember his constant warnings over the course of three years. The speaker also discusses the importance of selflessness and giving, citing the words of Jesus that it is more blessed to give than to receive. He acknowledges the challenges of laziness and encourages the audience to overcome it through discipline and a strong foundation in worship and fellowship.
Living by the Law or Spirit
By Robert B. Thompson60956:54MAT 7:211CO 9:27In this sermon, the speaker discusses how to know when you are living in the spirit. He references James 4:13-18 and emphasizes the importance of living a good life and showing humility through deeds. The speaker also warns against harboring bitter envy, as it goes against the spirit. The sermon then transitions to reading Romans 8:5-11, which highlights the difference between living according to the sinful nature and living in accordance with the spirit. The speaker emphasizes that those who are controlled by the spirit belong to Christ and have a spirit that is alive because of righteousness.
A Prisoner of Appetite Is Unhealthy Eating a Sin?
By Shane Idleman60944:02PRO 23:2PRO 23:21ISA 55:2ROM 12:11CO 6:121CO 9:271CO 10:31GAL 5:16PHP 3:19
This sermon addresses the importance of taking care of our bodies and avoiding unhealthy eating habits, focusing on the struggle to resist temptations and the need to prioritize physical health for spiritual well-being. The speaker shares personal struggles with weight and emphasizes the parallel between physical and spiritual health, highlighting the impact of neglecting the body on overall well-being.
Soft Americans Have Instant Everything
By Tim Conway51809:03ROM 12:21CO 9:27EPH 6:10COL 3:21PE 5:8
This sermon emphasizes the need for Christians to cultivate discipline, self-control, and a mindset focused on spiritual warfare and holiness. It challenges the modern American comfort and instant gratification culture, urging believers to prioritize renewing their minds, meditating on God's truth, and being prepared for spiritual battles and persecution by being rooted in Christ.
Homiletics: The Preacher's Holiness - Part 3
By Tim Conway49452:45MAT 7:211CO 9:271CO 13:12CO 6:31TI 4:162TI 2:20TIT 2:7
This sermon emphasizes the importance of holiness and piety in the life of a preacher, highlighting the direct connection between personal purity and the power of God in preaching. It stresses the need for clear consciences, good works, and training in godliness to be effective vessels for God's use in teaching and preaching.
Gods World Congress
By George Verwer4911:15:20MissionsGEN 3:15PRO 5:18MAL 2:15MAT 6:331CO 9:27HEB 12:1In this sermon, the preacher discusses the topic of commitment and how it means different things to different people. He mentions that he has written four books on commitment but still feels he has a long way to go. The preacher emphasizes the importance of moderation and not getting drawn into things that waste time. He also talks about making Jesus the Lord of every aspect of our lives, including relationships and time. The sermon ends with an invitation to examine one's walk with God and determine if they are truly committed to following Jesus.
The Leading of the Lord
By Carter Conlon48959:53DirectionPSA 119:105PRO 1:7ISA 55:11MAT 7:24JHN 10:271CO 9:27In this sermon, the preacher discusses the pathway that God has for His people and the importance of having a burden for souls. He emphasizes the need to live for God and shares insights into the character of God through the story of Pharaoh and the Israelites. The preacher highlights how God hardened Pharaoh's heart to demonstrate His power and bring honor to Himself. He also addresses the blindness that can come upon people who once knew the Lord and emphasizes the fear of the Lord as the beginning of wisdom and knowledge.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But I keep under my body, etc. - This is an allusion, not only to boxers, but also to wrestlers in the same games, as we learn from the word ὑπωπιαζω, which signifies to hit in the eyes; and δουλαγωγω, which signifies to trip, and give the antagonist a fall, and then keep him down when he was down, and having obliged him to acknowledge himself conquered, make him a slave. The apostle considers his body as an enemy with which he must contend; he must mortify it by self-denial, abstinence, and severe labor; it must be the slave of his soul, and not the soul the slave of the body, which in all unregenerate men is the case. Lest - having preached to others - The word κηρυξας, which we translate having preached, refers to the office of the κηρυξ, or herald, at these games, whose business it was to proclaim the conditions of the games, display the prizes, exhort the combatants, excite the emulation of those who were to contend, declare the terms of each contest, pronounce the name of the victors, and put the crown on their heads. See my observations on this office in the notes at Mat 3:17. Should be a castaway - The word αδοκιμος signifies such a person as the βραβευται, or judges of the games, reject as not having deserved the prize. So Paul himself might be rejected by the great Judge; and to prevent this, he ran, he contended, he denied himself, and brought his body into subjection to his spirit, and had his spirit governed by the Spirit of God. Had this heavenly man lived in our days, he would by a certain class of people have been deemed a legalist; a people who widely differ from the practice of the apostle, for they are conformed to the world, and they feed themselves without fear. On the various important subjects in this chapter I have already spoken in great detail; not, indeed, all that might be said, but as much as is necessary. A few general observations will serve to recapitulate and impress what has been already said. 1. St. Paul contends that a preacher of the Gospel has a right to his support; and he has proved this from the law, from the Gospel, and from the common sense and consent of men. If a man who does not labor takes his maintenance from the Church of God, it is not only a domestic theft but a sacrilege. He that gives up his time to this labor has a right to the support of himself and family: he who takes more than is sufficient for this purpose is a covetous hireling. He who does nothing for the cause of God and religion, and yet obliges the Church to support him, and minister to his idleness, irregularities, luxury, avarice, and ambition, is a monster for whom human language has not yet got a name. 2. Those who refuse the laborer his hire are condemned by God and by good men. How liberal are many to public places of amusement, or to some popular charity, where their names are sure to be published abroad; while the man who watches over their souls is fed with the most parsimonious hand! Will not God abate this pride and reprove this hard-heartedness? 3. As the husbandman plows and sows in hope, and the God of providence makes him a partaker of his hope, let the upright preachers of God's word take example and encouragement by him. Let them labor in hope; God will not permit them to spend their strength for nought. Though much of their seed, through the fault of the bad ground, may be unfruitful, yet some will spring up unto eternal life. 4. St. Paul became all things to all men, that he might gain all. This was not the effect of a fickle or man-pleasing disposition; no man was ever of a more firm or decided character than St. Paul; but whenever he could with a good conscience yield so as to please his neighbor for his good to edification, he did so; and his yielding disposition was a proof of the greatness of his soul. The unyielding and obstinate mind is always a little mind: a want of true greatness always produces obstinacy and peevishness. Such a person as St. Paul is a blessing wherever he goes: on the contrary, the obstinate, hoggish man, is either a general curse, or a general cross; and if a preacher of the Gospel, his is a burthensome ministry. Reader, let me ask thee a question: If there be no gentleness in thy manners, is there any in thy heart? If there be little of Christ without, can there be much of Christ within? 5. A few general observations on the Grecian games may serve to recapitulate the subject in the four last verses. 1. The Isthmian games were celebrated among the Corinthians; and therefore the apostle addresses them, Co1 9:24 : Know ye not, etc. 2. Of the five games there used, the apostle speaks only of three. Running; Co1 9:24 : They which run in a race; and Co1 9:26 : I therefore so run, not as uncertainly. Wrestling, Co1 9:25 : Every man that striveth; ὁ αγωνιζομενος, he who wrestleth. Boxing, Co1 9:26, Co1 9:27 : So fight I, not as one that beateth the air; οὑτω πυκτευω, so fist I, so I hit; but I keep my body under; ὑπωπιαζω, I hit in the eye, I make the face black and blue. 3. He who won the race by running was to observe the laws of racing - keeping within the white line which marked out the path or compass in which they ran; and he was also to outrun the rest, and to come first to the goal; otherwise he ran uncertainly, Co1 9:24, Co1 9:26, and was αδοκιμος, one to whom the prize could not be judged by the judges of the games. 4. The athletic combatants, or wrestlers, observed a set diet. See the quotation from Epictetus, under Co1 9:25. And this was a regimen both for quantity and quality; and they carefully abstained from all things that might render them less able for the combat; whence the apostle says they were temperate in all things, Co1 9:25. 5. No person who was not of respectable family and connections was permitted to be a competitor at the Olympic games. St. Chrysostom, in whose time these games were still celebrated, assures us that no man was suffered to enter the lists who was either a servant or a slave, ουδεις αγωνιζεται δουλος, ουδεις στρατευεται οικετης· and if any such was found who had got himself inserted on the military list, his name was erased, and he was expelled and punished. Αλλ' εαν ἁλῳ δουλος ων, μετα τιμωριας εκβαλλεται του των στρατιωτων καταολου. To prevent any person of bad character from entering the list at the Olympic games, the kerux, or herald, was accustomed to proclaim aloud in the theater when the combatant was brought forth: Μη τις τουτου κατηγορει; ὡστε αυτον αποσκευασαμενον της δουλειας την ὑποψιαν οὑτως εις τους αγωνας εμβηναι· Who can accuse this man? For which he gives this reason: "that being free from all suspicion of being in a state of slavery, (and elsewhere he says of being a thief, or of corrupt morals), he might enter the lists with credit." Chrysost. Homil. in Inscript. Altaris, etc., vol. iii. page 59, Edit. Benedict. 6. The boxers used to prepare themselves by a sort of σκιαμαχια, or going through all their postures of defense and attack when no adversary was before them. This was termed beating the air, Co1 9:26; but when such came to the combat, they endeavored to blind their adversaries by hitting them in the eye, which is the meaning of ὑπωπιαζειν, as we have seen under Co1 9:27. 7. The rewards of all these exercises were only a crown made of the leaves of some plant, or the bough of some tree; the olive, bay, laurel, parsley, etc., called here by the apostle φθαρτον στεφανον, a corruptible, withering, and fading crown; while he and his fellow Christians expected a crown incorruptible and immortal, and that could not fade away. 8. On the subject of the possibility of St. Paul becoming a castaway, much has been said in contradiction to his own words. He most absolutely states the possibility of the case: and who has a right to call this in question? The ancient Greek commentators, as Whitby has remarked, have made a good use of the apostle's saying, Ει δε Παυλος τουτο δεδοικεν ὁ τοσουτους διδαξας, τι αν ειποιμεν ἡμεις; "If Paul, so great a man, one who had preached and labored so much, dreaded this, what cause have we to fear lest this should befall us?" 9. On the necessity of being workers together with God, in order to avoid apostasy, Clemens Alexandrinus has some useful observations in his Stromata, lib. vii., page 448, Edit. Oberthur: Ὡς δε, says he, ὁ ιατρος ὑγειαν παρεχεται τοις συνεργουσι προς ὑγειαν, οὑτως και ὁ Θεος την αΐδιον σωτηριαν τοις συνεργουσι προς γνωσιν τε και ευπραγιαν· "As a physician gives health to those who cooperate with him in their cure; so God also gives eternal salvation to them who are workers together with him in knowledge and a godly life." "Therefore," says he, "it is well said among the Greeks, that when a certain wrestler, who had long inured his body to manly exercises, was going to the Olympic games, as he was passing by the statue of Jupiter he offered up this prayer: Ει παντα, ω Ζευ, δεοντως μοι τα προς τον αγωνα ταρεσκευασται, αποδος φερων δικαιως την νικην εμοι· 'O Jupiter, if I have performed every thing as I ought in reference to this contest, grant me the victory!'" May we not feel something of this spirit in seeking the kingdom of God? And can any thing of this kind be supposed to derogate from the glory of Christ? St. Paul himself says, if a man contend for the mastery, yet is he not crowned except he strive lawfully. Shall we pretend to be wiser than the apostle; and say, that we may gain the crown, though we neither fight the good fight nor finish the course?
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
keep under--literally, "bruise the face under the eyes," so as to render it black and blue; so, to chastise in the most sensitive part. Compare "mortify the deeds of the body," Rom 8:13; also Pe1 2:11. It is not ascetic fasts or macerations of the body which are here recommended, but the keeping under of our natural self-seeking, so as, like Paul, to lay ourselves out entirely for the great work. my body--the old man and the remainders of lust in my flesh. "My body," so far as by the flesh it opposes the spirit [ESTIUS] (Gal 5:17). Men may be severe to their bodies and yet indulge their lust. Ascetic "neglect of the body" may be all the while a more subtile "satisfying of the flesh" (Col 2:23). Unless the soul keep the body under, the body will get above the soul. The body may be made a good servant, but is a bad master. bring it into subjection--or bondage, as a slave or servant led away captive; so the Greek. preached--literally, "heralded." He keeps up the image from the races. The heralds summoned the candidates for the foot race into the race course [PLATO, Laws, 8.833], and placed the crowns on the brows of the conquerors, announcing their names [BENGEL]. They probably proclaimed also the laws of the combat; answering to the preaching of the apostles [ALFORD]. The The Christian herald is also a combatant, in which respect he is distinguished from the herald at the games. a castaway--failing shamefully of the prize myself, after I have called others to the contest. Rejected by God, the Judge of the Christian race, notwithstanding my having, by my preaching, led others to be accepted. Compare the equivalent term, "reprobate," Jer 6:30; Co2 13:6. Paul implies, if such earnest, self-denying watchfulness over himself be needed still, with all his labors for others, to make his own calling sure, much more is the same needed by the Corinthians, instead of their going, as they do, to the extreme limit of Christian liberty. Next: 1 Corinthians Chapter 10
Tyndale Open Study Notes
9:27 I fear that . . . I myself might be disqualified: Those who are disqualified from a sporting event have no hope of winning the prize. To avoid losing the eternal prize, Paul disciplined himself severely, like an athlete, so that he would not be led away from Christ into a life of sin (see 9:25; Heb 12:1).