1 Corinthians 9-3.15.22

Scripture

I Corinthians 9:24-26

Do you not know that in a race all the 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.

Observation

In these verses Paul uses the dedication and discipline required of an elite athlete to describe the discipline required of a Christ follower.

Understanding

Do you know anyone who has run a marathon? It takes four to six months, running four to five times a week, to get ready. That is dedication! And that’s not all. You also need to prepare yourself mentally. You need to be aware of nutrition, hydration, sleep, and more. You would most likely spend lots of time researching - the best shoes, running clothes, training plans, injury prevention, nutrition, exercise, etc. You would look for advice from other runners. It would take a great deal of focus and discipline to accomplish your goal. You need to become a disciple of running.

Discipline comes from discipulus, the Latin word for pupil, which also provided the source of the word disciple (Mirriam Webster).

We all have something that we love to do or that we are passionate about. Ask me a question about baking at your own risk. I am going to give you a long, drawn-out explanation about the best pans, temperature, ingredients, or recipes, and I am most likely going to force you to look at dozens of pictures on my phone! I love to read articles about baking, and I watch EVERY SINGLE baking competition on TV! I am a pupil of baking.

Life Application

What are your passions? What do you spend your time and thoughts on? There is nothing wrong with having hobbies and interests. But do we put that same passion and dedication into the things of God? We are disciples of Christ. Being a disciple takes discipline – disciplines of prayer, bible reading, study, fellowship, accountability, and obedience. “Paul ... uses the illustration of a race and its prize to emphasize the need for single-mindedness, determination, and perseverance.” (ESV Study Reformation Bible) We need to become so passionate about being a disciple that it consumes our lives – it is what we spend our time thinking about and put our time and effort into.

Graves Into Gardens (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KwX1f2gYKZ4)

I searched the world, but it couldn't fill me
Man's empty praise and treasures that fade are never enough 

Lord nothing is better than You!

-Debbie Dunn