1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (WEL) Don’t you know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? So run, that you may get it. 25 All contending for the victory show self-restraint in everything. Now, they do it to obtain a corruptible crown, but we, an incorruptible crown. 26 Therefore, I run, not with uncertainty. So, I fight not like one who punches the air. 27 I discipline my body and bring it under subjection, lest in any way, after I have preached to others, I myself should be rejected.
V24 Don’t you know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? So run, that you may get it.
All of us need the attitude of preparation, practice, self-discipline, persistence, resilience, a good work ethic, commitment, goal setting, proper health, and self-control. These are spiritual, not necessarily physical attitudes and goals.
The food we need is the Bible interpreted in the plain, normal sense.
We also need fellowship with one another, encouragement from one another, and teaching.
The prize we seek is “Well done, good and faithful servant (Matthew 25:21).”
V25 All contending for the victory show self-restraint in everything. Now, they do it to obtain a corruptible crown, but we, an incorruptible crown.
The first principle of self-restraint is knowledge, then alertness to dangers, then awareness of temptation, persecution, etc. God does give His assisting grace (2 Corinthians 12:9). The crowns we receive for loyal and faithful service to the Lord Jesus are eternal. The time for determining and awarding crowns is at the Bema Seat Judgment.
Bible crowns are given by Jesus Christ at the Bema Seat judgment, which is for rewards, not salvation. See Romans 14:10-12, 1 Corinthians 3:10–4:5, and 2 Corinthians 5:1-10.
The Five Crowns
- The Crown of Victory: Like Paul, we run the race even to our death and use self-discipline to continue living the Christian faith regardless of life’s challenges—1 Corinthians 9:24-27.
- The Crown of Rejoicing: sharing the Gospel—1 Thessalonians 2:19.
- The Crown of Life: persevering through afflictions, torture, difficulties, mockery, hate, abuse, but continuing—James 1:12 and Revelation 2:10.
- The Crown of Righteousness: for those who eagerly wait, long for, love, and pray for the Rapture and the coming of the Lord—2 Timothy 4:8.
- The Crown of Glory: for those in ministry, whether great or little, persevering and not deserting in difficult times and circumstances—1 Peter 5:1-4.
The Lord is the Lord Jesus who judges us for rewards at the Bema Seat Judgment. The Lord is righteous. Paul will receive crowns, too, and so all those who love Christ’s return.
V26 Therefore, I run, not with uncertainty. So, I fight not like one who punches the air.
Paul gives his example of knowing the goal and pursuing that goal. We should follow his example. His striving to be a good servant of Jesus Christ is not an outward show or a part-time effort. It is a life dedicated to being a good servant. Compare Hebrews 12:1-2. Are we faithful in Bible reading, study, prayer, and fellowship?
V27 I discipline my body and bring it under subjection, lest in any way, after I have preached to others, I myself should be rejected.
Paul’s reference to the body deals with self-control over its desires, especially sinful desires. He can be successful with God’s help. He also disciplines his body for spiritual service. See Romans 12:1 and 1 Peter 2:5.
Paul, also, does not want for anyone to have their faith damaged by his actions.
We learn:
- Self-discipline and self-control are needed for a successful Christian life.
- Some traits that are worthy for us to pursue our daily Christian life.
Questions:
- How is your dedication to growing in your Christian faith?
- How are you helping others grow?