Pastor Ralph Posted February 5, 2014 Report Share Posted February 5, 2014 Q5. (1 Corinthians 9:24-27) What point is Paul trying to make by using athletic analogies? What place does self-discipline have in our effectiveness as Christian workers? What place does self-discipline have in keeping us from falling into gross sin, such as idolatry? How might lack of self-discipline disqualify us for all God has for us? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
pickledilly Posted April 19, 2014 Report Share Posted April 19, 2014 We know that athletic competitions require months of self-discipline and intense training, both mental and physical. Paul used this familiar analogy as a word picture to help the Corinthians to grasp the point he had been making about self-control and restraint from worldly pursuits (including casual association with the practices of idolatry; chpt.8). Any winning competitor will tell you that an athlete who has not sacrificed will not validly win the prize. Paul has been instructing them (us) about the prize of faithful, mature, pure service in following Christ. In chapter 3, he spoke of a coming day when the works believers have done will be judged and rewarded. From that point to this, he has addressed the requirements of moral purity, honorable service, and faithfulness to the task. These things require diligent self-control and sacrifice as we work for the Kingdom. Self-discipline is very important in keeping us from falling into gross sin such as idolatry. Every sin we willingly enter has already been accepted in our minds, so we have to make tough choices in order to keep our thoughts from being led astray from a sincere and pure devotion to Christ (2Corinthians 11:3). Our minds are to be renewed by the Spirit and the Word at work in us – and that takes deliberate submission and investment of time (Titus 3:5; Romans 12:2; Ephesians 4:23). We have to make intentional decisions to destroy worldly arguments and lofty opinions, to take every thought captive in order to obey Christ, and to self-correct our own disobedience (2Cor. 10:5) – these actions guard and protect us from walking into the traps of sin. We have to discipline ourselves in being humble before God (James 4:10), sometimes setting aside personal rights/desires for a greater good (1Cor. 9:12b) and enduring the trials/persecutions that grow and mature us in our faith (James 1:2-4). Whoever said Christianity is a crutch for wimps doesn’t know what they’re talking about! When believers refuse to discipline and rightly judge ourselves, we invite the Lord to do it for us (1John 1:9; 1Cor. 11:31-32). When we act on our own, we go astray and even the “good” things we do are self-motivated and self-serving – and can only produce “thorns and thistles” that will burn away when tested rather than a good crop for the Kingdom that will endure (Hebrews 6:8). Paul sees that an undisciplined Christian can’t produce fruit that qualifies for the prize of recognition that honors Christ (1Cor. 3:14-15). It’s not easy, but it’s not impossible (2Cor.12:9)!! To be spiritually undisciplined is to be spiritually weak, ineffective, flabby, overweight with self, unfocused, and unable to rightly run the race of service. Oh, do I need that reminder. To sum it up, something to remember as our hearts/minds are governed by the supreme Law of Love for God and others – genuine love is a conscious choice, and sincere love is about sacrifice of self. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
charisbarak Posted May 5, 2014 Report Share Posted May 5, 2014 The point is that that Christian life is WORK! We need to keep our eyes on the goal--On Jesus! Self-discipline, self-control are so important. People are looking at us and watching us since we have said we're Christians. We do not want to spoil our testimony. Self-control, tempered with love for others, will keep us from gross sin. Keep short accounts with God. Lack of self-discipline lines us up to receive the fewest rewards in heaven. We end up being a horrible witness and instead of drawing people to Jesus, we turn them away..... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
IvoryEagle Posted May 7, 2014 Report Share Posted May 7, 2014 What point is Paul trying to make by using athletic analogies? TROPHY'S ON EARTH REQUIRE THE PRICE OF TRAINING & DISCIPLINE. What place does self-discipline have in our effectiveness as Christian workers? SAME PURPOSE; DIFFERENT PRIZE & PLACE What place does self-discipline have in keeping us from falling into gross sin, such as idolatry? SELF CONTROL How might lack of self-discipline disqualify us for all God has for us? HANGING WITH THE WRONG PEOPLE EXPOSES YOU TO THE WRONG THINGS; YOU COULD INADVERTENTLY CROSS OVER INTO SIN. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
hanks Posted May 8, 2014 Report Share Posted May 8, 2014 Q5. (1 Corinthians 9:24-27) What point is Paul trying to make by using athletic analogies? What place does self-discipline have in our effectiveness as Christian workers? What place does self-discipline have in keeping us from falling into gross sin, such as idolatry? How might lack of self-discipline disqualify us for all God has for us? The point Paul is trying to bring across is that we are to be disciplined and serve the Lord with our whole heart. The same discipline and all-out effort an athlete would use. Since our Christian walk is similar to a race it requires self-discipline, and calls for strenuous effort as well as definiteness of purpose. We might have to go through several trials and temptations, all requiring strong self-control but this is all done to strengthen our faith. The Holy Spirit will also help in getting us through these times. Any lack of self-discipline will never disqualify us from our salvation, for our salvation is the free gift of God through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, and is not dependent on the result of our faithfulness in running the race. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Lion of Grace Posted May 8, 2014 Report Share Posted May 8, 2014 Paul uses the athletic analogies to bring home the point that if anyone wants to win and receive the prize (award) then there is training involved and self discipline required. He compares this to a race to be won (our Christian journey in life) with a focus on the goal line. (Heaven and it's eternal rewards) Paul also points out boxing and how it is important to make every punch count. We have to be accurate and focused in the way we live and how we present ourselves and God's message to others, not sloppy, unfaithful, and swinging at air, missing our mark. Self discipline is imperative in our walk with Christ and in our demonstration of our faith to others. We are serious about our beliefs and living them out. We are serious about our purpose and mission. We are prayed up and we are in the Word. We take preparation every day for our race very seriously. We don't go about it unfaithfully or with half-hearted truths or motivations. Self discipline keeps us from gross sin because we remain abiding in Christ through the Holy Spirit. We are constantly aware (but not afraid) that temptation can come our way and trials will come that can attempt to urge us to give up. When we set disciplines in our lives such as daily Bible reading, prayer or practices such as fleeing from sin or unhealthy relationships or groups of people who teach another way but the Gospel of Christ, then we are strengthened in mind, body and spirit to continue in Christ who IS our strength. Troubles, persecutions or things like rejection will begin to pale in comparison to what we have in Christ and we will stay the course. Lack of discipline makes us soft, unfaithful, wishy washy and of no good to anyone. Lack of discipline leads to compromise, fence sitting and opens our minds to untruths, deception and sin. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Delivered Posted May 8, 2014 Report Share Posted May 8, 2014 Q5. (1 Corinthians 9:24-27) What point is Paul trying to make by using athletic analogies? Paul is using athletics to illustrate the importance that we take in subjection our bodies, knowing that we who are made strong in Christ, are we whose hearts desire is in following God's ways, our calling is to overcome, for we know that God will not withhold his prize from them that walk uprightly, understanding that God has a blessing for the man whose heart is in doing the ways of God. What place does self-discipline have in keeping us from falling into gross sin, such as idolatry? "Self Discipline" is a method used to overcome the "Stony Heart" of flesh, "Self Discipline" is how we take in "SUBJECTION" the body, enabling us to run our race with the goal of receiving the crown of righteousness, a crown that will last forever, a crown that will be given to all who run the race of "FAITH" to the end, for we know that Christ is coming for a "FAITHFUL BRIDE", to all those who love, who are looking forward to his appearing. However, to those who run a "LUKEWARM" race, God gives a warning, those who do not take the body into subjection and instead continue to walk in the flesh, it is they who do not please God, for they continue to let the "BODY" take control instead of the "SPIRIT" --- The wicked will not inherit the Kingdome of God, neither the sexually immoral nor the idolater ---- Do they not understand Jesus words, "My yoke is easy, and my burden is light" if one would only follow after the Spirit, and the new heart, whose desire is to do the will of God and count it all "JOY". Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
JanMary Posted May 8, 2014 Report Share Posted May 8, 2014 Q5. (1 Corinthians 9:24-27) What point is Paul trying to make by using athletic analogies? I believe Paul is saying that the Christian life can be long and hard, uphill and downhill, full of trials and testing, which requires active participation, anticipation, strength and endurance in order to finish well and to get to the end where the Lord is glorified, and there is a crown waiting. What place does self-discipline have in our effectiveness as Christian workers? The Christian "race" requires focus on Christ and His goals, heart and purposes for our lives, which means that there will be some sacrifices of our time, will, and emotions in order to be effective, such as an athlete disciplines him / herself for training and endurance. What place does self-discipline have in keeping us from falling into gross sin, such as idolatry? Self Discipline is the same as focus and training...to keep my mind on the race set before me without detours and side trips away from the course. How might lack of self-discipline disqualify us for all God has for us? Lack of discipline can lead to a lackadaisical life out of tune and out of time for what the Lord has in mind for me..."for I know the plans I have for you for good and not for evil, for success and not for failure to give you hope in the final outcome." Jer 29:11,12. Self discipline keeps me tuned in daily, but in a relaxed state of faith, to follow His lead in focusing on completing all that He has for me. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
parkerslope Posted May 8, 2014 Report Share Posted May 8, 2014 What point is Paul trying to make by using athletic analogies? We all must train for any kind of competition. By using "The Games" as how we are to discipline ourselves, we need to train vigorously to be able to win the prize for 1st place. An athlete must be disciplined both physically and mentally. So we also as Christian workers must train ourself for the job that God has for us. What place does self-discipline have in our effectiveness as Christian workers? By disciplining ourselves, we keep our focus on the goal, what we want to accomplish. What place does self-discipline have in keeping us from falling into gross sin, such as idolatry? It means that as we focus on our goal, we will not let sinful thoughts divert our minds from the work of Jesus or sinful actions destroy our witness for the gospel. How might lack of self-discipline disqualify us for all God has for us? If we are weak as a Christian, lacking knowledge of the Word, we can be drawn away from the truth and destroy our relationship with Jesus. By disciplining ourselves we can keep learning more of the gospel to teach to others for their salvation. I believe that Paul is speaking here (9:27) about the possibility of losing your salvation by taking it "too lightly". Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Sank T Monius Posted May 8, 2014 Report Share Posted May 8, 2014 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 Q). What point is Paul trying to make by using athletic analogies? A). Paul uses a series of analogies to the Greek games that underscore that he is deadly serious about fulfilling his mission as an apostle -- to declare the gospel. # Q). What place does self-discipline have in our effectiveness as Christian workers? A). Self-Discipline is necessary so we can practice what we preach. Without self-discipline we cannot effectively demonstrate how to live the Christ-powered life. (See 1 Corinthians 9:27) # Q). What place does self-discipline have in keeping us from falling into gross sin, such as idolatry? A). Self-discipline acts as a protective shield against the dangers of skating too close to sin. # Q). How might lack of self-discipline disqualify us for all God has for us? A). Lack of self-discipline can make us hard-hearted and disobedient. It can lead to unrepentant sin. And continuing in unrepentant sin gives no assurance of salvation -- rather the opposite. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
van Posted May 10, 2014 Report Share Posted May 10, 2014 The point Paul is trying to make here is that he live his life strictly for Christ. What he preach to otbers, he is also preaching to himself. He doesn't tell them to do anything he doesn't do himself. Self-discipline is important because people are watching what you do and if you can't live right they don't want you to preach to them about not living the Christian life. We should love Christ enough to live for Him, and this includes self-discipline in our daily lives. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
lighthouse2014 Posted May 11, 2014 Report Share Posted May 11, 2014 Q5. (1 Corinthians 9:24-27) What point is Paul trying to make by using athletic analogies? What place does self-discipline have in our effectiveness as Christian workers? What place does self-discipline have in keeping us from falling into gross sin, such as idolatry? How might lack of self-discipline disqualify us for all God has for us? The point Paul is making by using using the analogy of the Olympic games is that, as the athlete's train hard and almost continually to win the prize. Christians should also study hard, pray and lean the Word of God, so they can win souls for Christ and win the race for the prize in Heaven. Self discipline is important for christian workers, without this discipline Satan will find a way to lead us astray. Being self disciplined also shows how dedicated we to preach the gospel. Self discipline will keep us from falling into sin. It will keep us from idolizing false gods in our life, such as money, greed and a behavioral vices. By not being self disciplined we would loose our fellowship with the Lord, being like dead wood, saved but only through our faith with no rewards in Heaven. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Old Jerry Posted May 16, 2014 Report Share Posted May 16, 2014 The point that Paul is trying to make by using athletic analogies is that we have to say in the Word and keep our thought on the Kingdom. The place that self-discipline has in our effectiveness as a Christian is that they are always watching us and unless we have self-discipline we will not be able to get the Message out. When we look at what is happening in the world it looks like all the fun they are having we would like to join them. But our sell-discipline will keep us from falling into gross sin, such as idolatry. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rod Beenleigh Posted May 17, 2014 Report Share Posted May 17, 2014 What point is Paul trying to make by using athletic analogies? Just as the athlete is totally focused on winning by using dedication, discipline, training and exercise to fulfill his ultimate goal , so to the Christian should be likewise. What place does self discipline have in our effectiveness as Christian workers? It develops strength of character, trust in God, being a genuine Christian. Requires us to deny any activity or thought that distracts from our goal. What place does self-discipline have in keeping us from falling into gross sin? When exercising and using all our energies to that of following Christ we restrict any unsavoury thought or action, thus avoiding falling into gross sin. How might lack of self-discipline disqualify us for all God has for us? We could lose our spirituality, our closeness to God and Christ and the Holy Spirit. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Craig Posted May 18, 2014 Report Share Posted May 18, 2014 1 Corinthians 9:24-27: In this passage Paul is comparing his personal self-discipline in living a godly life to athletes preparing for competition in sporting events. It takes self-discipline and training in one's sport to be competitive. Likewise, Paul is preparing himself for the new kingdom coming as we all should be doing. Spiritual development and living a godly life requires training and self-discipline. As followers of Christ not everything is appropriate or good for us. Sin is never appropriate and it takes prayer and self-discipline to train ourselves to stay away from those sins we like. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guitar Jim Posted May 22, 2014 Report Share Posted May 22, 2014 Q5. (1 Corinthians 9:24-27) What point is Paul trying to make by using athletic analogies? Just as self-discipline is necessary to succeed in athletic endeavor, it's also necessary to win the rewards in Glory. What place does self-discipline have in our effectiveness as Christian workers? Gotta keep our minds on the job. Take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ. What place does self-discipline have in keeping us from falling into gross sin, such as idolatry? If we keep focused on out mission we won't slip into gross sin. How might lack of self-discipline disqualify us for all God has for us? We won't receive a reward in Heaven if we haven't kept ourselves in shape spiritually. I don't believe we can lose our salvation unless we completely renounce God, but we won't be living in a mansion in Heaven if we haven't been busy for God on Earth. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
haar Posted May 28, 2014 Report Share Posted May 28, 2014 Q5. (1 Corinthians 9:24-27) What point is Paul trying to make by using athletic analogies? What place does self-discipline have in our effectiveness as Christian workers? What place does self-discipline have in keeping us from falling into gross sin, such as idolatry? How might lack of self-discipline disqualify us for all God has for us? The Christian life is a race where strict discipline in required if one will run and qualify for the price. Self discipline keeps us getting closer and closer to sin by fleeing from the source of sin. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
dixonle Posted July 9, 2014 Report Share Posted July 9, 2014 Q5. (1Corinthians 9.24-27) What point is Paul trying to make by using athletic analogies? What place does self-discipline have in our effectiveness as Christian workers? What place does it have in keeping us from falling into gross sin, such as idolatry? How might lack of self-discipline disqualify us from all God has for us? http://www.joyfulheart.com/forums/topic/1359-q5-self-discipline/ Paul compared the Greek games to what he has tried to convey as plainly explain his points. He chose two of the six core events: running and boxing. A runner self-disciplines to properly train for the running event so that he can concentrate of getting to the finish line. Likewise, with the Christian worker, the training, edification and mental preparation equip for eyeing and reaching the eternal (non-perishable wreath) goal of proclaiming and winning as many to faith in Christ Jesus as possible. As a boxer trains for the event, so does a Christian worker discipline to the point of rigorous preparation for the task at hand. But unlike the boxer where part of the training is to shadow box, which in essence practices but miss the mark due to there being no opponent. Whereas, the point of readying oneself is to keep eyes on the mark or task, the Christian worker’s discipline is strict and not casual in any way so that there will be nothing to obscure, distract, or deter from reaching the goal of proclaiming and winning as many to faith in Christ Jesus as possible. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
blezed Posted August 7, 2014 Report Share Posted August 7, 2014 What point is Paul trying to make by using athletic analogies? 1. Winning a race requires purpose and discipline. Paul is explaining Christian life takes hard work, self denial and preparation. What place does self-discipline have in our effectiveness as Christian workers? What place does self-discipline have in keeping us from falling into gross sin, such as idolatry? How might lack of self-discipline disqualify us for all God has for us? 2. Self-discipline equips us to reach our goal. It gives us purpose and plan to reach that goal. Our focus is on winning the race. Lack of discipline makes it easier to fall into sin. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
JoanG Posted June 27, 2015 Report Share Posted June 27, 2015 Paul used the analogies of an athlete to describe the hard work and determination that is needed to follow the path that God wants you on. You need to be fully prepared to give it your all. You need to be in top peak performance level at all times. Self-discipline is a standard practice for all who want to follow the teachings of Christ. We need to always be the best that we can be. We need to not give into worldly temptations. We need to have very strong habits that will carry us through the very tough times. We need to always show our best to everyone around us. Without self-discipline, we could fall into sin. We can end up making many mistakes. And we actually might end up being very materialistic. We would care more of the world's ideals than the ideas of God. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Irmela Posted June 6, 2022 Report Share Posted June 6, 2022 Q5. (1 Corinthians 9:24-27) What point is Paul trying to make by using athletic analogies? What place does self-discipline have in our effectiveness as Christian workers? What place does self-discipline have in keeping us from falling into gross sin, such as idolatry? How might lack of self-discipline disqualify us for all God has for us? Paul is using athletics analogies because these pictures are well known to his audience. When taking part in athletics, it became a lifestyle. There were different games to participate in, every year. (The Olympic Games, the Isthmean Games, Nemean Games and Pythian Games) To take part in the athletics they had to train for 10 months before the event. They had to practice self-discipline, they had to practice even when it would have been easier to give up. Training was a daily exercise, not only something done now and again. There was a purpose they strove for, in taking part. They strove to win the prize. In the athletics it was a perishable crown, but the Christian looks forward to an eternal reward. Just as self-discipline was part and parcel of an athletes life-style, so was self-discipline (to stay away from idolatry and anything else for that matter, that would make one fall back into sin), part and parcel of a Christian's life-style. To live as a Christian worker needs the same kind of discipline. Do not give up in the struggle. Keep on keeping on. Lack of self-discipline can make one complacent and not watchful. Before you know it, you have fallen into a snare the evil one has pitched for you. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Krissi Posted July 12, 2023 Report Share Posted July 12, 2023 Like so many truths in Christian life, it's difficult to focus all the different angles on one spot. Self-discipline v God's grace are two of those angles. On the one hand, I am to run with all my strength, to intentionally and deliberately choose to NOT think or do sinful things, to break patterns that are long-established and willingly whip myself into moral shape. On the other hand, I'm supposed do this through the power and initiation of the Spirit. Any victory I have over sin in my own life is His. I cannot obey on my own. Now, I've known many secularists who are "good people" and seem to have more self-discipline than I do. Other religions take self-abnegation and even self-harm to much greater extremes than Christianity. Frankly, I think Christians are pretty soft when it comes to self-discipline, but perhaps I'm just revealing my own inner battles. It's difficult to know when to rest in Christ to let Him do the work and when I'm to battle in a disciplined manner: When do I walk around Jericho tooting my horn and let God win the battle for me: When do I create checklists and other ways of forcing better thoughts and behaviour in myself? The uncomfortable answer, for me, is BOTH. Often I do all I can do and when I've reached the end of my tether, I beg God to clean up my mess and fix me. But, I've wondered if I should have asked God to fix me from the start. Perhaps all I need to do is passively focus on Him thus eschewing the disciplined athlete metaphor in Paul's passages. --- Pickled Lilly writes so wisely on this: "Self-discipline is very important in keeping us from falling into gross sin such as idolatry. Every sin we willingly enter has already been accepted in our minds, so we have to make tough choices in order to keep our thoughts from being led astray from a sincere and pure devotion to Christ (2Corinthians 11:3). Our minds are to be renewed by the Spirit and the Word at work in us – and that takes deliberate submission and investment of time (Titus 3:5; Romans 12:2; Ephesians 4:23). We have to make intentional decisions to destroy worldly arguments and lofty opinions, to take every thought captive in order to obey Christ, and to self-correct our own disobedience (2Cor. 10:5) – these actions guard and protect us from walking into the traps of sin. We have to discipline ourselves in being humble before God (James 4:10), sometimes setting aside personal rights/desires for a greater good (1Cor. 9:12b) and enduring the trials/persecutions that grow and mature us in our faith (James 1:2-4) ... " Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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