PROCLAMATION
“Do you not
know that in a race all runners run, but only one gets the
prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone
who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to
get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last
forever. Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do
not fight like a boxer beating the air. No, I strike a blow to my
body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself
will not be disqualified for the crown.” 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NIV)
EXPLANATION
These words
were written by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of
God, to the believers in the church at Corinth. Paul begins this
chapter by talking about his rights as an apostle. He provides a
justification for them using worldly and Biblical examples to support his
claim. (1 Corinthians 9:1-12) Then he goes on to say that he did not
use or claim that which is rightfully his. (1 Corinthians
9:13-18) He ends by describing the need for self-discipline
among believers, apostles, and preachers, including himself. He
states that we ought to run our race in such a way as to make sure that we get
the prize. (1 Corinthians 9:24) For the prize which we seek is an
eternal crown.
APPLICATION
In an
athletic race event, there is only one winner. Athletes must train
and practice and make sacrifices to prepare for the race in order to win the
prize. However, in our spiritual race all of us can be winners and
get the prize. We must also work and make sacrifices in order to get
our prize. We must walk His way (Psalm 128:1) and exercise faith and
self-control. (Hebrews 11:6) If we live by The Word of God and
follow His way, we will all receive a crown as our reward. Our
salvation is not our reward; our salvation is a gift from God for those who
believe in Christ. Our rewards will be based upon the work we do
during this life which gives God glory. One day we will receive our
crowns. (2 Timothy 4:8 and James 1:12)
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