1 Corinthians 9:26 – focus

Now then, thus am I racing, not as dubious, thus am I boxing, not as punching the air…

Still the subject is the receiving of the incorruptible wreath. That wreath is the upcoming award of our race, here on the earth. What’s the secret of receiving that award? Paul makes that clear with two images from the sport. First the athletic, like before in verse 24 and subsequently boxing.

In both images it’s about focus and purposefulness. Who is running, has a continuous focus on the finish. The athlete doesn’t run in a random direction. No, every step is purposeful to be as quick as possible at the finish. And who boxes, doesn’t punch the air. The successful boxer knows where to hit his opponent.

By these images Paul makes clear that the one who will later receive the wreath, is now focussed on the purpose and waives all the rest. Focussed on what is incorruptibly valuable. On what stands the test of time and what is incorruptible. The truth of the evangel and GOD’s glorious future.

Delen: