21 Self Control in All Things

I Corinthians 9: 24-25 Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win. Everyone who competes in the games exercises self-control in all things They then do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable.

Paul’s commitment to this course of ministry did not come easily. It required personal discipline (strict training) like that of an athlete who strove for supremacy in his field. To that end Paul willingly gave up certain privileges, which might otherwise be his to enjoy so that he could win the prize. The prize for Paul was not the temporary crown (stephanos) bestowed by men (in the biennial games near Corinth the “crown” was a pine wreath) but the eternal crown bestowed by Christ Paul’s crown would be the consummation of the reward he partially enjoyed, the opportunity to glory before Christ in those he had been able to win. Paul was willing always to give up his rights to win people to Christ.