1 Corinthians 9:24
Know ye not that they who run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run that ye may obtain.
a. NLT: Don’t you realize that in a race everyone runs, but only one person gets the prize? So run to win! [Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.]
b. NIV: 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. [THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by Permission of Biblica, Inc.® All rights reserved worldwide.]
c. YLT: have ye not known that those running in a race -- all indeed run, but one doth receive the prize? so run ye, that ye may obtain; [The Young's Literal Translation was translated by Robert Young, who believed in a strictly literal translation of God's word. This version of the Bible is in the public domain.]
d. Amplified Bible: Do you not know that in a race all the runners compete, but [only] one receives the prize? So run [your race] that you may lay hold [of the prize] and make it yours. [Amplified Bible, Classic Edition (AMPC) Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation]
1.”Know ye not that they who run in a race run all,
a. know ye [Strong: 1492 εἴδω eídō, i'-do; a primary verb; used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent G3700 and G3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by implication, (in the perfect tense only) to know:—be aware, behold, × can (+ not tell), consider, (have) know(-ledge), look (on), perceive, see, be sure, tell, understand, wish, wot.]
b. not [Strong: 3756 οὐ ŏu, oo; also (before a vowel) οὐκ ŏuk, ook; and (before an aspirate)
οὐχ ŏuch, ookh; a primary word; the absolute negative [compare G3361] adverb; no or not:—+ long, nay, neither, never, no (X man), none, [can-]not, + nothing, + special, un([-worthy]), when, + without, + yet but. * ou]
c. that [Strong: 3754 ὅτι hóti, hot'-ee; neuter of G3748 as conjunction; demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because:—as concerning that, as though, because (that), for (that), how (that), (in) that, though, why.]
d. they which [Strong: 3588. [hoi] ὁ ho ho, including the feminine he hay, and the neuter to to in all their inflections; the definite article; the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in English idiom):--the, this, that, one, he, she, it, etc.] [Thayer: [hoi] ὁ, ἡ, τό, originally τος, τῇ, τό (as is evident from the forms τοι, ται for οἱ, αἱ in Homer and the Ionic writings), corresponds to our definite article the (German der, die, das), which is properly a demonstrative pronoun, which we see in its full force in Homer, and of which we find certain indubitable traces also in all kinds of Greek prose, and hence also in the N. T.] [Additional variants: tē, hoi, oi, tēn, ta, tēs, tois, tais, tō, tōn, tou, hé, Hē, hē, hai, tas.]
run [Strong: 5143 τρέχω tréchō, trekh'-o; apparently a primary verb (properly, θρέχω thréchō; compare G2359); which uses δρέμω drémō drem'-o (the base of G1408) as alternate in certain tenses; to run or walk hastily (literally or figuratively):—have course, run.]
e. in [Strong: 1722 ἐν en, en; a primary preposition denoting (fixed) position (in place, time or state), and (by implication) instrumentality (medially or constructively), i.e. a relation of rest (intermediate between G1519 and G1537); "in," at, (up-)on, by, etc.:—about, after, against, + almost, × altogether, among, × as, at, before, between, (here-)by (+ all means), for (… sake of), + give self wholly to, (here-)in(-to, -wardly), × mightily, (because) of, (up-)on, (open-)ly, × outwardly, one, × quickly, × shortly, (speedi-)ly, × that, × there(-in, -on), through(-out), (un-)to(-ward), under, when, where(-with), while, with(-in). Often used in compounds, with substantially the same import; rarely with verbs of motion, and then not to indicate direction, except (elliptically) by a separate (and different) preposition.]
f. [a] race [Strong: 4712 στάδιον stádion, stad'-ee-on; from the base of G2476 (as fixed); a stade or certain measure of distance; by implication, a stadium or race-course:—furlong, race.]
1). Rick Renner 3/27/16 Paul teaches us here that we are in a “race.” The word “race” is the Greek word stadion, which later became our word stadium. However, it first described a race course that was 600 feet in length or one-eighth of a Roman mile — the exact length that was used in the Olympics of the ancient world and in the Isthmian Games that were held near the city of Corinth. Because Paul was highly educated, he knew precisely what he was doing when he used a word that described the Olympic race course of his day.
g. run [Strong: 5143 * τρέχω tréchō, trekh'-o; apparently a primary verb (properly, θρέχω thréchō; compare G2359); which uses δρέμω drémō drem'-o (the base of G1408) as alternate in certain tenses; to run or walk hastily (literally or figuratively):—have course, run.]
h. [Strong: * 3303. men men a primary particle; properly, indicative of affirmation or concession (in fact); usually followed by a contrasted clause with 1161 (this one, the former, etc.):--even, indeed, so, some, truly, verily. Often compounded with other particles in an intensive or asseverative sense.]
i. all [Strong: 3956 πᾶς pâs, pas; including all the forms of declension; apparently a primary word; all, any, every, the whole:—all (manner of, means), alway(-s), any (one), × daily, + ever, every (one, way), as many as, + no(-thing), X thoroughly, whatsoever, whole, whosoever.
2. “…but one receiveth the prize?...”
a. but [Strong: 1161 δέ dé, deh; a primary particle (adversative or continuative); but, and, etc.:—also, and, but, moreover, now (often unexpressed in English).]
b. one [Strong: 1520 εἷς heîs, hice; a primary numeral; one:—a(-n, -ny, certain), + abundantly, man, one (another), only, other, some.]
c. receiveth [Strong: 2983 λαμβάνω lambánō, lam-ban'-o; a prolonged form of a primary verb, which is use only as an alternate in certain tenses; to take (in very many applications, literally and figuratively (properly objective or active, to get hold of; whereas G1209 is rather subjective or passive, to have offered to one; while G138 is more violent, to seize or remove)):—accept, + be amazed, assay, attain, bring, × when I call, catch, come on (X unto), + forget, have, hold, obtain, receive (X after), take (away, up).]
d. the [Strong: 3588. [to] ὁ ho ho, including the feminine he hay, and the neuter to to in all their inflections; the definite article; the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in English idiom):--the, this, that, one, he, she, it, etc.] [Thayer: [to] ὁ, ἡ, τό, originally τος, τῇ, τό (as is evident from the forms τοι, ται for οἱ, αἱ in Homer and the Ionic writings), corresponds to our definite article the (German der, die, das), which is properly a demonstrative pronoun, which we see in its full force in Homer, and of which we find certain indubitable traces also in all kinds of Greek prose, and hence also in the N. T.] [Additional variants: tē, hoi, oi, tēn, ta, tēs, tois, tais, tō, tōn, tou, hé, Hē, hē, hai, tas.]
e. prize [Strong: 1017 βραβεῖον brabeîon, brab-i'-on; from βραβεύς brabeús (an umpire of uncertain derivation); an award (of arbitration), i.e. (specially) a prize in the public games:—prize.
3. “…So run that ye may obtain.”
a. so [Strong: 3779 οὕτω hŏutō, hoo'-to; or (before a vowel)
οὕτως hŏutōs, hoo'-toce; adverb from G3778; in this way (referring to what precedes or follows):— after that, after (in) this manner, as, even (so), for all that, like(-wise), no more, on this fashion(-wise), so (in like manner), thus, what.
b. run [Strong: 5143 * τρέχω tréchō, trekh'-o; apparently a primary verb (properly, θρέχω thréchō; compare G2359); which uses δρέμω drémō drem'-o (the base of G1408) as alternate in certain tenses; to run or walk hastily (literally or figuratively):—have course, run.]
c. that [Strong: 2443 ἵνα hína, hin'-ah; probably from the same as the former part of G1438 (through the demonstrative idea; compare G3588); in order that (denoting the purpose or the result):—albeit, because, to the intent (that), lest, so as, (so) that, (for) to.]
d. [ye may] obtain [Strong: 2638 καταλαμβάνω katalambánō, kat-al-am-ban'-o; from G2596 and G2983; to take eagerly, i.e. seize, possess, etc. (literally or figuratively):—apprehend, attain, come upon, comprehend, find, obtain, perceive, (over-)take.] [Zodhiates: to apprehend, attain, obtain, find. To lay hold of, to seize with eagerness, to obtain the prize with the idea of eager and strenuous exertion, to grasp, to seize upon, to seize with the mind, to comprehend.]
1). Scripture gives us some hints about running the race.
a). Hebrews 12:1, 2 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and every sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,
12:2 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
(1) patience [5281 * hupomone; hupo-under; meno-to abide.] [Zodhiates: A bearing up under, patience, endurance as to things or circumstances.]
b). John 15:4-6 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me.
15:5 I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.
15:6 If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned.
c). The only way to run successfully is abiding in Christ.
2). Isaiah 40:13 But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.
a).wait [Strong: 6960 qavah kaw-vaw' a primitive root; to bind together (perhaps by twisting), i.e. collect; (figuratively) to expect:--gather (together), look, patiently, tarry, wait (for, on, upon).] [AMG: The root meaning is that of twisting or winding a strand of cord or rope. The word also means to be gathered…]
3). Romans 8:26 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groaning which cannot be uttered.
a). helpeth [Strong: 4878. sunantilambanomai soon-an-tee-lam-ban'-om-ahee from 4862 and 482; to take hold of opposite together, i.e. co-operate (assist):--help.] [to take hold together against.]
b). I cannot help but see a similarity in the Hebrew word for “wait” and the Greek word “helpeth”. The implication of strength through prayer, to me is inescapable.
4). Psalm 18:29 For by thee I have run through a troop; and by my God have I leaped over a wall.
5). Psalm 119:32 I will run the way of thy commandments, when thou shalt enlarge my heart.
a). The three last Scriptures, Isaiah 40:13; Psalm 18:29; Psalm 119:32 all relate how that when God strengthens, we are enabled to do what we were unable to do.
6). Rick Renner 3/27/16 The word “obtain” is the Greek word katalambano, which is a compound of two words, kata and lambano. The word kata describes something that is coming downward, and the word lambano means to take or to seize something. When compounded together into one word, katalambano meansto grab hold of, to seize, to wrestle, to pull down, and to finally make a desired object your very own. This is the picture of someone who finally sees what he wants — and instead of letting that goal he desires slip away, he pounces on it, seizing it and latching hold of it with all his might!
Paul uses this word katalambano to depict the attitude of a runner who is running with all his energy, straining forward as he keeps his focus fixed on the finish line. At last the runner reaches the goal, and the prize is now his! He gave that race all he had to give, and it paid off! Had he approached the race with a casual, lazy attitude, the prize would have gone to another. But because he ran to obtain that prize, in the end that’s exactly what he did!
1 Corinthians 9:25
And everyman that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown, but we an incorruptible.
a. NLT: All athletes are disciplined in their training. They do it to win a prize that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize. [Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.]
b. NIV: 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. [THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by Permission of Biblica, Inc.® All rights reserved worldwide.]
c. YLT: and every one who is striving, is in all things temperate; these, indeed, then, that a corruptible crown they may receive, but we an incorruptible; [The Young's Literal Translation was translated by Robert Young, who believed in a strictly literal translation of God's word. This version of the Bible is in the public domain.]
d. Amplified Bible: Now every athlete who goes into training conducts himself temperately and restricts himself in all things. They do it to win a wreath that will soon wither, but we [do it to receive a crown of eternal blessedness] that cannot wither. [Amplified Bible, Classic Edition (AMPC) Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation]
1. “And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things…”
a. And [Strong: 1161 δέ dé, deh; a primary particle (adversative or continuative); but, and, etc.:—also, and, but, moreover, now (often unexpressed in English).]
b. every man [Strong: 3956 πᾶς pâs, pas; including all the forms of declension; apparently a primary word; all, any, every, the whole:—all (manner of, means), alway(-s), any (one), × daily, + ever, every (one, way), as many as, + no(-thing), X thoroughly, whatsoever, whole, whosoever.]
c. [tha]t striveth for the mastery [Strong: 75 ἀγωνίζομαι agōnízomai, ag-o-nid'-zom-ahee; from G73; to struggle, literally (to compete for a prize), figuratively (to contend with an adversary), or genitive case (to endeavor to accomplish something):—fight, labor fervently, strive.] [Zodhiates: To contend for victory in the public games…generally to fight or wrestle…as an inward contest…to take pains…straining every nerve to the uttermost towards the goal…special pain and toil. (English: agony)]
d. [is] temperate [Strong: 1467 ἐγκρατεύομαι enkrateúomai, eng-krat-yoo'-om-ahee; middle voice from G1468; to exercise self-restraint (in diet and chastity):—can(-not) contain, be temperate.] [Zodhiates: To be continent, temperate, to have self-control.] [Strong: middle voice from 1468; to exercise self-restraint (in diet and chastity):--can(-not) contain, be temperate.]
1). One of the hallmarks of the last days is the failure of people to control themselves. Lack of self control or addiction is just another word for bondage.
a). 2 Timothy 3:1-5 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.
For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,
Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good,
Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God;
Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.
2). When we were born again we were given in our spirit the power of self control.
a). 2 Timothy 1:7 [KJV] For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
b). 2 Timothy 1:7 [NIV] For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.
3). But even we as Christians have the free will to neglect the Covenant promises and sin and fall into bondage. But it is not God’s will. There is total and absolute victory over every sin and bondage in Christ.
a). Romans 6:15-18 What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid.
6:16 Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?
6:17 But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you.
6:18 Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness.
b). 2 Timothy 2:25, 26 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;
2:26 And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.
e. in all things [Strong: 3956 πᾶς pâs, pas; including all the forms of declension; apparently a primary word; all, any, every, the whole:—all (manner of, means), alway(-s), any (one), × daily, + ever, every (one, way), as many as, + no(-thing), X thoroughly, whatsoever, whole, whosoever.]
1). The training that an athlete puts forth to win is sometimes incredible. The Greek word Paul used for “striveth” is where the English word ‘agony’ comes from. The NIV uses the phrase “competes in the games”. It involves bodily exercise, weight lifting, diet, and sleeping habits, everything that would improve their chances of winning. Their whole world revolves around it. Here the Spirit of God encourages us to use the same amount of effort to live for Christ as an athlete does to win the race. I am reminded of what Paul wrote to Timothy in his first letter.
a). 1 Timothy 4:7, 8 But refuse profane and old wives fables, and exercise thyself unto godliness.
4:8 For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come.
b). Paul is not saying there is anything wrong with bodily exercise, in fact he writes that it is profitable. The profit is little but there is profit, but he says that godliness is much more profitable not only in this life but also in the life to come.
2). The bottom line in all of this is use the same effort to pursue godliness that is used to pursue excellence in athletics. The effort has to be according to the rules.
a). 2 Timothy 2:5 And if a man strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully.
3). According to His working.
a). Colossians 1:28, 29 Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus:
1:29 Whereunto I also labor, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.
4). We have a covenantal responsibility to put forth effort if need be agonizing effort to run the race.
a). Galatians 5:19-24 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness,
5:20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies,
5:21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told [you] in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.
5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,
5:23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
5:24 And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.
b). 1 Peter 5:8-10 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:
5:9 Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.
5:10 But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.
2. “…Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown, but we an incorruptible.”
a. Now [Strong: 3767 οὖν oûn, oon; apparently a primary word; (adverbially) certainly, or (conjunctionally) accordingly:—and (so, truly), but, now (then), so (likewise then), then, therefore, verily, wherefore.]
b. they [Strong: 1565 ἐκεῖνος ekeînos, ek-i'-nos; from G1563; that one (or (neuter) thing); often intensified by the article prefixed:—he, it, the other (same), selfsame, that (same, very), × their, × them, they, this, those.]
c.[do it] to [Strong: 2443 ἵνα hína, hin'-ah; probably from the same as the former part of G1438 (through the demonstrative idea; compare G3588); in order that (denoting the purpose or the result):—albeit, because, to the intent (that), lest, so as, (so) that, (for) to.]
d. obtain [Strong: 2983 λαμβάνω lambánō, lam-ban'-o; a prolonged form of a primary verb, which is use only as an alternate in certain tenses; to take (in very many applications, literally and figuratively (properly objective or active, to get hold of; whereas G1209 is rather subjective or passive, to have offered to one; while G138 is more violent, to seize or remove)):—accept, + be amazed, assay, attain, bring, × when I call, catch, come on (X unto), + forget, have, hold, obtain, receive (X after), take (away, up).]
e. [a] corruptible [Strong: 5349 φθαρτός phthartós, fthar-tos'; from G5351; decayed, i.e. (by implication) perishable:—corruptible.
f. crown [Strong: 4735 στέφανος stéphanos, stef'-an-os; from an apparently primary στέφω stéphō (to twine or wreathe); a chaplet (as a badge of royalty, a prize in the public games or a symbol of honor generally; but more conspicuous and elaborate than the simple fillet, G1238), literally or figuratively:—crown.]
1). The crown that these athletes received was merely a wreath of a leafed vine that within days falls apart.
g. but [Strong: 1161 δέ dé, deh; a primary particle (adversative or continuative); but, and, etc.:—also, and, but, moreover, now (often unexpressed in English).]
h. we [Strong: 2249 ἡμεῖς hēmeîs, hay-mice'; nominative plural of G1473; we (only used when emphatic):—us, we (ourselves).
i. [an] incorruptible [Strong: 862 ἄφθαρτος áphthartos, af'-thar-tos; from G1 (as a negative particle) and a derivative of G5351; undecaying (in essence or continuance):—not (in-, un-)corruptible, immortal.]
1). We on the other hand receive a crown that is incorruptible, an eternal one. There are five crowns mentioned in the New Testament that are rewards for believers faithfulness.
a). Incorruptible Crown : Given to those who successfully run their race, bringing their bodies into subjection, crucifying lusts: 1 Corinthians 9:24-27.
b). The Crown of Rejoicing: Soul winners crown, given to those who win others to Christ: 1 Thessalonians 2:19, 20; Daniel 12:3.
c). The Crown of Life: Given to those who endure trials and severe suffering: James 1:12; Revelation 2:8-11.
d). The Crown of Righteousness: Given to those who faithfully and anxiously await the coming of the Lord: 2 Timothy 4:8.
e). The Crown of Glory: Given to those who faithfully lead the flock of God, pastors, teachers, Sunday school teachers: 1 Peter 5:1-4.
2). Institute of Creation R 5/22/15 Ancient athletes who “strove for the mastery” devoted their whole lives to train searching and were “temperate in all things,” hoping thereby to receive the victor’s crown someday. There are 21 references to the victor’s crown in the New Testament, in either the verb or noun form. In most of these, the crown is used as a symbol of the Christian’s “incorruptible” reward at the end of his spiritual race. In 1 Thessalonians 2:19, it is called a “crown of rejoicing,” speaking of the joy awaiting the faithful witness when he meets again with those he has influenced for Christ in this present life. Paul spoke of our “crown of righteousness” (2 Timothy 4:8) when we shall be “like him” (1 ohn 3:2), with our old sinful weaknesses and desires gone forever. Peter said it would be a “crown of glory that fadeth not away” (1 Peter 5:4). James and John both said it is a wonderful “crown of life” (James 1:12; Revelation 2:10), that is, eternal life, in contrast to this present life of faithful submission to trials and persecution and possible death, for Christ’s sake. The first four references to this victor’s crown, however, refer to the crown worn by Christ Himself. “Then came Jesus forth, wearing the crown of thorns, and the purple robe. And Pilate saith unto them, Behold the man!” (John 19:5). Marvelous irony this, that a crown intended as an instrument of ridicule and pain would be transformed into a kingly crown of triumph! “But we see Jesus . . . crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man” (Hebrews 2:9). In the very suffering of death, He defeated death and sin and Satan himself, and His crown of thorns became a crown of eternal glory and universal honor. HMM
1 Corinthians 9:26
I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air:
a. NLT: So I run with purpose in every step. I am not just shadowboxing. [Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.]
b. NIV: Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. [THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by Permission of Biblica, Inc.® All rights reserved worldwide.]
c. YLT: I, therefore, thus run, not as uncertainly, thus I fight, as not beating air; [The Young's Literal Translation was translated by Robert Young, who believed in a strictly literal translation of God's word. This version of the Bible is in the public domain.]
d. Amplified Bible: Therefore I do not run uncertainly (without definite aim). I do not box like one beating the air and striking without an adversary. [Amplified Bible, Classic Edition (AMPC) Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation]
1. “I therefore so run, not as uncertainly…”
a. I [Strong: 1473 * ἐγώ egṓ, eg-o'; a primary pronoun of the first person I (only expressed when emphatic):—I, me.]
b. therefore [Strong: 5106 τοίνυν toínyn, toy'-noon; from G5104 and G3568; truly now, i.e. accordingly:—then, therefore.]
c. so [Strong: 3779 * οὕτω hŏutō, hoo'-to; or (before a vowel) οὕτως hŏutōs, hoo'-toce; adverb from G3778; in this way (referring to what precedes or follows):— after that, after (in) this manner, as, even (so), for all that, like(-wise), no more, on this fashion(-wise), so (in like manner), thus, what.]
d. run [Strong: 5143 * τρέχω tréchō, trekh'-o; apparently a primary verb (properly, θρέχω thréchō; compare G2359); which uses δρέμω drémō drem'-o (the base of G1408) as alternate in certain tenses; to run or walk hastily (literally or figuratively):—have course, run.]
e. not [Strong: 3756 οὐ ŏu, oo; also (before a vowel) οὐκ ŏuk, ook; and (before an aspirate)
οὐχ ŏuch, ookh; a primary word; the absolute negative [compare G3361] adverb; no or not:—+ long, nay, neither, never, no (X man), none, [can-]not, + nothing, + special, un([-worthy]), when, + without, + yet but.]
f. as [Strong: 5613 ὡς hōs, hoce; probably adverb of comparative from G3739; which how, i.e. in that manner (very variously used, as follows):—about, after (that), (according) as (it had been, it were), as soon (as), even as (like), for, how (greatly), like (as, unto), since, so (that), that, to wit, unto, when(-soever), while, × with all speed.]
g. uncertainly [Strong: 84 ἀδήλως adḗlōs, ad-ay'-loce; adverb from G82; uncertainly:—uncertainly.
1). Of the effort he put forth and his destination Paul was not unsure.
a). 2 Timothy 1:12 For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed; for I know in whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day.
b). One of the key words in this verse is the word, “committed”. A committed man is a stable man.
(1) Proverbs 16:3 Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established.
(2) James 1:8 A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.
2 “…so fight I, not as one that beatheth the air.”
a. so [Strong: 3779 * οὕτω hŏutō, hoo'-to; or (before a vowel) οὕτως hŏutōs, hoo'-toce; adverb from G3778; in this way (referring to what precedes or follows):— after that, after (in) this manner, as, even (so), for all that, like(-wise), no more, on this fashion(-wise), so (in like manner), thus, what.]
b. fight [4438 * pukteo] [Strong: from a derivative of the same as 4435; to box (with the fist), i.e. contend (as a boxer) at the games (figuratively):--fight.]
c. not [Strong: 3756 οὐ ŏu, oo; also (before a vowel) οὐκ ŏuk, ook; and (before an aspirate)
οὐχ ŏuch, ookh; a primary word; the absolute negative [compare G3361] adverb; no or not:—+ long, nay, neither, never, no (X man), none, [can-]not, + nothing, + special, un([-worthy]), when, + without, + yet but.]
d. as [Strongs:5613 ὡς hōs, hoce; probably adverb of comparative from G3739; which how, i.e. in that manner (very variously used, as follows):—about, after (that), (according) as (it had been, it were), as soon (as), even as (like), for, how (greatly), like (as, unto), since, so (that), that, to wit, unto, when(-soever), while, × with all speed.]
e. [one that] beateth [Strong: 1194 δέρω dérō, der'-o; a primary verb; properly, to flay, i.e. (by implication) to scourge, or (by analogy) to thrash:—beat, smite.
f. the air [Strong: 109 ἀήρ aḗr, ah-ayr'; from ἄημι áēmi (to breathe unconsciously, i.e. respire; by analogy, to blow); "air" (as naturally circumambient):—air.]
1). Shadow boxing, no damage done, beating the air, or in a boxing match, missing my target. The Amplified Bible reads, “…I do not box as one beating the air and striking without an adversary.” Paul made his punches count and he exhorts us to do the same in our spiritual battles using our faith.
a). 1 Timothy 6:12 Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.
2). Near the end of Paul’s ministry, he declared that he had been faithful.
a). 2 Timothy 4:7, 8 I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:
4:8 Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.
3). Paul isn’t the only one who exhorts us to fight the good fight.
a). Jude 3 Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints.
1 Corinthians 9:27
But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.
a. NLT: I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. Otherwise, I fear that after preaching to others I myself might be disqualified. [Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.]
b. NIV: 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 prize. [THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by Permission of Biblica, Inc.® All rights reserved worldwide.]
c. YLT: but I chastise my body, and bring it into servitude, lest by any means, having preached to others -- I myself may become disapproved. [The Young's Literal Translation was translated by Robert Young, who believed in a strictly literal translation of God's word. This version of the Bible is in the public domain.]
d. Amplified Bible: But [like a boxer] I buffet my body [handle it roughly, discipline it by hardships] and subdue it, for fear that after proclaiming to others the Gospel and things pertaining to it, I myself should become unfit [not stand the test, be unapproved and rejected as a counterfeit]. [Amplified Bible, Classic Edition (AMPC) Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation]
1. “But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection…”
a. But [Strong: 235. alla al-lah' neuter plural of 243; properly, other things, i.e. (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations):--and, but (even), howbeit, indeed, nay, nevertheless, no, notwithstanding, save, therefore, yea, yet.]
b. [I] keep under [Strong: 5299. hupopiazo hoop-o-pee-ad'-zo from a compound of 5259 and a derivative of 3700; to hit under the eye (buffet or disable an antagonist as a pugilist), i.e. (figuratively) to tease or annoy (into compliance), subdue (one's passions):--keep under, weary.] [Zodhiates: to strike under the eye, beat the face black and blue, give a black eye. In the NT generally means to subject the body with hardship.]
c. my [Strong: 3450. mou moo the simpler form of 1700; of me:--I, me, mine (own), my.]
d. body [Strong: 4983. soma so'-mah from 4982; the body (as a sound whole), used in a very wide application, literally or figuratively:--bodily, body, slave.]
e. and [Strong: 2532. kai kahee apparently, a primary particle, having a copulative and sometimes also a cumulative force; and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words:--and, also, both, but, even, for, if, or, so, that, then, therefore, when, yet.]
f. bring it into subjection [Strong: 1396. doulagogeo doo-lag-ogue-eh'-o from a presumed compound of 1401 and 71; to be a slave-driver, i.e. to enslave (figuratively, subdue):--bring into subjection.] [doulagogeo; doulos-in bondage; ago-to bring]
1). Rick Renner 10/31/16: The word “subjection” is the word doulagogeo, a compound of the word doulos and ago. The word doulos is the word for a slave, and the word ago is the Greek word that means to lead. This means that Paul mastered his body and flesh rather than allowing his body and flesh to master him. He knew that many believers allow themselves to be led about by their fleshly desires. But Paul was determined that he would be the master of his own flesh. He was going to keep it in “subjection.” In other words, he was going to lead his flesh about as his slave rather than be its slave and pander to its carnal desires.
2). The Greek word Paul used for “subjection” is a compound word, the first half, “doulos” of course means slave. Doulos is the same word Paul used in Romans 6:16.
a). Romans 6:16 Know ye not that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death or obedience unto righteousness?
2). We as Christians have the covenantal responsibility to bring our flesh under subjection, i.e., through the power of the Holy Ghost, to make or force our bodies to be obedient to the word of God. This process of course involves our responsibilities of prayer and study of the word, without which, this process is just a futile attempt of physical discipline.
a). Romans 12:1 I beseech you brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.
b). 1 Thessalonians 4:3, 4 For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication:
That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour;
c). Others that could be written out are more than a few, but I will at least list some of them. Romans 6:13, Romans 6:16-18.
2. “…lest that by any means when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.”
a. [lest that] by any means [Strong: 3381. mepos may'-pos or me pos may poce from 3361 and 4458; lest somehow:--lest (by any means, by some means, haply, perhaps).]
b. [when I have] preached [Strong: 2784. kerusso kay-roos'-so of uncertain affinity; to herald (as a public crier), especially divine truth (the gospel):--preacher(-er), proclaim, publish.]
c. [to] others [243. allos al'-los a primary word; "else," i.e. different (in many applications):--more, one (another), (an-, some an-)other(-s, -wise).]
d. [I] myself [Strong: 846. autos ow-tos' from the particle au (perhaps akin to the base of 109 through the idea of a baffling wind) (backward); the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative 1438) of the third person , and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons:--her, it(-self), one, the other, (mine) own, said, (self-), the) same, ((him-, my-, thy- )self, (your-)selves, she, that, their(-s), them(-selves), there(-at, - by, -in, -into, -of, -on, -with), they, (these) things, this (man), those, together, very, which.]
e. [should] be [Strong: 1096. ginomai ghin'-om-ahee a prolongation and middle voice form of a primary verb; to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e. (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.):--arise, be assembled, be(-come, -fall, -have self), be brought (to pass), (be) come (to pass), continue, be divided, draw, be ended, fall, be finished, follow, be found, be fulfilled, + God forbid, grow, happen, have, be kept, be made, be married, be ordained to be, partake, pass, be performed, be published, require, seem, be showed, X soon as it was, sound, be taken, be turned, use, wax, will, would, be wrought.]
f. [a] castaway [Strong: 96. adokimos ad-ok'-ee-mos from 1 (as a negative particle) and 1384; unapproved, i.e. rejected; by implication, worthless (literally or morally):--castaway, rejected, reprobate.] [adokimos; a-without; dokimos-acceptable, approved.] [Zodhiates: Unapproved, unworthy, spurious, worthless.]
1). Rick Renner 10/31/16: When the King James Version uses the word “castaway,” it is actually the Greek word adokimos, which comes from the word dokimos, an old Greek word that means approved. But when an a is added to the front of the word, making it the word adokimos, it reverses the condition, which means this is no longer an approved person. Now this person has become disapproved, discredited, or disqualified.
2). Amplified Bible: “…for fear that after proclaiming to others the Gospel and things pertaining to it, I myself should become unfit—not stand the test and be unapproved and rejected as a counterfeit.”
3). Paul clearly said that he would be rejected even if he preached the gospel but did not bring his flesh body under subjection. I believe that means he would not make it to heaven. I believe this is shown in not only his statement here but coupled with the examples from the Old Covenant he also gives in the next chapter. This same word is translated “reprobate” in Romans 1:28, Titus 1:16, and 2 Timothy 3:8. It is translated “rejected” in Hebrews 6:8.
a). Romans 1:28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient;
b). Hebrews 6:8 But that which beareth thorns and briers is rejected, and is nigh unto cursing; whose end is to be burned.
c). Titus 1:16 They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.
d). 2 Timothy 3:8 Now as Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, so do these also resist the truth: men of corrupt minds, reprobate concerning the faith.
4). In dealing with offenses between brothers and sisters within the body Jesus gave instruction regarding those offenses. When they were overwhelmed by them (Luke 17:1-4). They responded by asking him to increase their faith (Luke 17:5). Then jesus said: “And the Lord said, If ye had faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye might say unto this sycamine tree, Be thou plucked up by the root, and be thou planted in the sea; and it should obey you” (Luke 17:6).
a). Rick Renner 12/29/16 Jesus said that when you finally decide to deal with the wrong attitudes that have stalked and hounded your life for so long, you must order them to “...be thou plucked up by the root, and be thou planted in the sea...” (Luke 17:6). The words “plucked up by the root” are from the Greek word ekridzoo, which is a compound of the words ek and ridzo. The word ek means out, and the word ridzo is the Greek word for a root, like the roots of a plant. When joined into one word, the compound word means to rip out by the roots. This is not a person who hopes the plant will be removed but does nothing to make it happen. Quite the contrary! This is the picture of a person who wraps his hands around the base of that plant, pulls with all his might, and rips the roots of that plant right out of the ground. He has made the determination that he is not going to stop until the ground he stands on is totally free from the roots of that nasty plant so that it will never produce life there again!...When you make that choice to rise up, speak to your emotions, and exert your authority in Jesus Christ, your flesh WILL obey your commands! If you don’t take authority over your flesh and emotions, they will continue to dominate and hound you. If you’ll stand up to your emotions and plant them in the sea forever, they will obey you!
