Although as I write this, I am in France, enjoying the sunshine, the peace, and the quiet; in London and other parts of the country, many will be gripped by the Olympic Games.
What many won’t realise is that the excitement of the Games (not necessarily, the Olympics) has influenced the thought and language of the New Testament! Indeed, one may compile a veritable spiritual sports commentary! So Paul, writing to the Corinthian church, refers to running, training, boxing, and self-discipline – and all in terms that would have been instantly recognised by the original readers as connected to the games. (I Cor.9:24-27).
Perhaps he was thinking of a contemporary Usain Bolt, when he wrote to the Roman believers: “Forgetting what lies behind, and straining towards what is ahead, I press on towards the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenwards in Christ Jesus.” (Rom.3:13b-14).
And to what end? Not the laurel wreath (or Gold medal) of the Games, but a “crown of righteousness” from Almighty God, Himself. (see II Tim.4:7-8). Towards what prize are we aiming?
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