1 Corinthians 9:26-27
What is written? (ESV)
So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.
What does it say?
So I [Paul] don’t run without purpose or box like one beating air. Rather, I work to keep my body under control so that after all my preaching to others, I do not end up disqualified.
What is its immediate context?
Paul is admonishing the Corinthians throughout 8:1-11:1 to temper their “rights” and freedoms in Christ for the sake of others’ conscience. His main point through these chapters is that they should “endure anything rather than put an obstacle in the way of the gospel of Christ” (vs 12). He wants that they all finish the “race” and win the “imperishable wreath” (vs 25).
How 1 Corinthians 9:26-27 is applied across Bible answers
Can one fall from grace?
Paul describes his own efforts in not becoming "disqualified" (e.g. falling from grace).
Can we lose our salvation?
Paul constantly works to control himself so that he does not become "disqualified" from the "race" (the "imperishable wreath" of their salvation).
Is God’s grace irresistible?
Paul didn't believe he was immune from being "disqualified" from God's grace.
