1 Corinthians 9:24-27

Introduction:

1. Paul frequently employed sports analogies in his writings.

2. These were derived from four major Greek sporting events: the Pythian at Delphi, Isthmian at Corinth, Nemean at Argolis, and Olympian at Elis.

3. These analogies offer so much practical wisdom for Christian living.

Discussion:

I. Competing with Intensity (1 Corinthians 9:24)

A. Paul’s first directive was that they be all in on their pursuit.

B. The Isthmian games so familiar to the Corinthians demanded the competitors approach their competition with relentless pursuit.

C. Paul, though a beacon of faithfulness, understood the race continues until death, and he gave his all to the end (Philippians 3:12-14; 2 Timothy 4:7-8).

II. Competing with Self-Control (1 Corinthians 9:25-27)

A. Such intense competition demands tremendous self-control.

B. The Galatians had run well, but then they turned aside (Galatians 5:7).

C. There are rules of competition in sports, and there are rules of “competition” in our spiritual race (2 Timothy 2:5).

III. Competing with Purpose (1 Corinthians 9:26-27; 2 Timothy 4:7-8)

A. Remembering our purpose serves as the catalyst to maintain our intensity and self-control.

B. Competitors in the Greek games strained to obtain a perishable crown, but Christians strain for an imperishable crown.

C. That crown was what fueled Paul to finish his race (2 Timothy 4:7-8).

IV. Competing with Focus (Hebrews 12:1-2)

A. After listing many OT characters who conquered overwhelming odds by faith, the Hebrews writer urged his readers to run with endurance.

B. He pointed to the greatest example of faithfulness, Jesus, the author and finisher of the faith, and urged them to continually focus on Him.

C. As long as he looked at Jesus, Peter could walk on water (Matthew 14:22-32); if we keep our eyes on Christ, we can live faithfully to the end.

Conclusion:

1. Every Christian is locked in a competition with eternal implications.

2. This is not one we can afford to lose, so we must give our all to win.

3. Thankfully, we have the greatest example of all to spur us on.

4. Let us lay aside every weight and sin, so that we will be primed for victory.