1 Corinthians 9:24-27

Controlling Self To Receive The Prize

All the talk about sacrifice reminded Paul of the sacrifice and self-control necessary to reach the heavenly goal. He used the illustration of runners who sacrifice many hard hours of training devoting themselves to the single purpose of winning. Likewise, Christians should devote their whole being to their purpose of reaching heaven (1 Peter 3:12-14; Romans 12:12; Hebrews 12:12). Athletes give up much, through self-control, to attain a perishable crown, but Christians strive to reach an imperishable crown (1 Corinthians 9:24-25; 1 Peter 5:4).

Knowing the value of the prize, Paul said he ran without hesitation. He was not practicing but running the actual race. Like an Olympic boxer in the ring for competition, the apostle sent his punches straight to their mark. Paul fought the desires of his flesh to control them. McGarvey suggests that Paul had been like a herald telling the rules of the game. It would be tragic for the announcer not to meet the announced requirements (1 Corinthians 9:26-27).