Septuagesima January 28, 2024
! Corinthians 9:24-10:5
The Importance of Exercise
V.25 Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable.
Dear friends in Christ, observe any athlete, whether amateur, school, or professional. Be it hockey, basketball, baseball, track, or any other sport. They take great care to exercise discipline and self-control over their bodies. Something I have always struggled at doing consistently. They work out frequently, practice regularly, eat healthy foods, drink revitalizing drinks–all so that they may obtain the prize–be it the Superbowl or Lord Stanley’s Cup, the regional championship, or school competition. They don’t just do things willy-nilly, but rather they work with a purpose–a goal–something to be achieved that is of great value (often coming with fame, if not fortune as well).
Such is the situation St. Paul is describing for us in our text for today. Remember, St. Paul was well aware of the Greek games and Olympics in which athletes would compete for a wreath on their heads, perhaps a statue at Olympia of their likeness, and being treated as an incredible sports hero in their hometown. The wreath was made of a twisted olive branch. Therefore, it was perishable–it wouldn’t last very long–though the fame might go a bit further–at least until the next games. But only ONE received the prize. There were no prizes for second place.
But St. Paul goes on to urge the Christians in Corinth to be diligent in exercising spiritual discipline–because we run after a reward that is imperishable–everlasting life with our Lord in glory. Therefore, we are not to take this gift of salvation for granted–not abuse the Lord’s mercy and grace–falling into the false belief that it matters not what we believe or do as Christians since Jesus loves us. Such was the case with some in the Corinthian congregation who were living their lives in direct opposition to God’s Word–indulging in immoral behavior, as well as abusing the Lord’s Supper. They were in danger of failing to receive the imperishable wreath of life. Hence St. Paul’s stern warning in this letter.
We, too, need to be reminded of this truth. For we are daily tempted to lapse into idolatry and sin–to forsake Christ and His Word–to seek out our own good–fail to exhibit Christian love to our neighbor–thinking all is OK because Jesus died for sinners and we like to sin–it’s a perfect arrangement! Not so, beloved. We are not to give in to our sinful lusts and desires–abuse our body and other gifts of God for selfish gain and pleasure. Rather, being a Christian takes great discipline–takes work–like that of a professional athlete.
Athletes of all stripes have always sought to be rigorous in the exercise of their bodies. Just so with us Christians, spiritually. We ought to undergo a strict regimen of spiritual exercise in God’s Word and Sacraments. We discipline our bodies by not giving in to every want or desire–but rather limit ourselves–fasting of certain things at certain times (as many of us will do during the season of Lent, though this is indeed a deep spiritual practice that Christians have practiced throughout the church’s history at all times of year). For in disciplining our bodies, we may also become more disciplined in our spirituality.
As athletes often undergo strict diets to properly nourish and sustain their bodies, we also make every effort to be nourished with God’s holy food in the Word and Eucharist. We exercise our spiritual muscles through careful study and meditation on God’s Word–setting aside times each and every day to be in His Word–to pray diligently–to attend worship and Bible study (for those who exercise at the same place and same time–actually exercise!--bodies & spirits)–that we may thereby be strengthened in our faith–so we may do the good works that the Lord has prepared in advance for us to walk (Eph. 2:10). We run the race of this life with joy and confidence, trusting in our Lord’s mercy, but not forsaking to work at our Christian faith–to let sin creep in and selfishness take over–thereby failing to receive the Lord’s imperishable wreath of salvation as we fall into unbelief and pride–running aimlessly to and fro without purpose and focus–beating the air as a boxer to no avail–letting our sinful desires run wildly out of control.
Yet, it is our Lord who lovingly strengthens us for this race and holy task. Sometimes He may test us with difficult situations–just as He did with the Israelites in the wilderness when they lacked water at Rephidim. He often allows such trials to take place in order that we may focus our attention on Christ–trust in Him to provide for our every good–and not look to our own strength or resources–but grow stronger spiritually by trusting in Him alone.
And our God does abundantly provide for us in every need! He invites us to drink deeply from the wells of His salvation found in His blessed Word–Holy Baptism–and the Lord’s Supper. Through these means our Lord strengthens us in our faith through the forgiveness of sins earned by Jesus’ cross and resurrection. Indeed, we feed on the most nourishing and enriching food–better than any protein drink, low-carb diet, or fruit smoothie. We eat the Lord’s own body and blood in, with, and under the bread and wine for the forgiveness of all of our sins! Nothing could be more revitalizing than that–for this simple meal gives us life everlasting in Jesus.
Therefore, beloved, we don’t run around aimlessly–focusing on things God hasn’t directed us to–our own good works–our own piety–the latest Christian gimmicks or fad–we don’t get sidetracked by the particular issues of our day–but rather we focus on Christ Jesus and His sure and certain Word–that alone which brings us the prize of eternal life.
As Christians, we attempt to keep ourselves strictly under control: body, mind, and spirit. So that we may not be disqualified on the Last Day from receiving the imperishable wreath from the hand of our God. We do not follow our own desires and so be overthrown in the wilderness of this life. Rather, we follow Christ. We drink deeply of Him by faith as we hear His Word–rejoice in it–and drink of His blood in the Holy Supper–that we may ever be reassured of the forgiveness of our sins.
Baptized into Christ, you have been washed clean of all your sins–prepared and renewed for a life of Christian love and charity. A life of love focused on the needs of others, but a love that flows always from the love you have first received from your Spiritual Rock–Jesus Christ Himself. He who was struck with fists, whips, and rods. He who was crushed by the wrath of God on the cross in your place–blood pouring out from nail-pierced hands and feet–blood and water streaming from His spear-pierced side.
So, dear friends, be blessed in your spiritual exercise and discipline. As you are brought to repentance by the Word of God over all your sin–eat and drink deeply from the spiritual food and drink your Lord provides for you. The same spiritual food and drink that strengthened and sustained all Christians before you–from Moses and the Israelites in the wilderness–to St. Paul and the Corinthian church–ALL those who receive the gift of God in Christ of the full remission of all sin. Indeed, look to Jesus–the One who has perfectly run the race for you–who wore the crown of thorns–so that you would receive the imperishable wreath of the crown of everlasting life. Thanks be to God in Christ Jesus. Amen.
! Corinthians 9:24-10:5
The Importance of Exercise
V.25 Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable.
Dear friends in Christ, observe any athlete, whether amateur, school, or professional. Be it hockey, basketball, baseball, track, or any other sport. They take great care to exercise discipline and self-control over their bodies. Something I have always struggled at doing consistently. They work out frequently, practice regularly, eat healthy foods, drink revitalizing drinks–all so that they may obtain the prize–be it the Superbowl or Lord Stanley’s Cup, the regional championship, or school competition. They don’t just do things willy-nilly, but rather they work with a purpose–a goal–something to be achieved that is of great value (often coming with fame, if not fortune as well).
Such is the situation St. Paul is describing for us in our text for today. Remember, St. Paul was well aware of the Greek games and Olympics in which athletes would compete for a wreath on their heads, perhaps a statue at Olympia of their likeness, and being treated as an incredible sports hero in their hometown. The wreath was made of a twisted olive branch. Therefore, it was perishable–it wouldn’t last very long–though the fame might go a bit further–at least until the next games. But only ONE received the prize. There were no prizes for second place.
But St. Paul goes on to urge the Christians in Corinth to be diligent in exercising spiritual discipline–because we run after a reward that is imperishable–everlasting life with our Lord in glory. Therefore, we are not to take this gift of salvation for granted–not abuse the Lord’s mercy and grace–falling into the false belief that it matters not what we believe or do as Christians since Jesus loves us. Such was the case with some in the Corinthian congregation who were living their lives in direct opposition to God’s Word–indulging in immoral behavior, as well as abusing the Lord’s Supper. They were in danger of failing to receive the imperishable wreath of life. Hence St. Paul’s stern warning in this letter.
We, too, need to be reminded of this truth. For we are daily tempted to lapse into idolatry and sin–to forsake Christ and His Word–to seek out our own good–fail to exhibit Christian love to our neighbor–thinking all is OK because Jesus died for sinners and we like to sin–it’s a perfect arrangement! Not so, beloved. We are not to give in to our sinful lusts and desires–abuse our body and other gifts of God for selfish gain and pleasure. Rather, being a Christian takes great discipline–takes work–like that of a professional athlete.
Athletes of all stripes have always sought to be rigorous in the exercise of their bodies. Just so with us Christians, spiritually. We ought to undergo a strict regimen of spiritual exercise in God’s Word and Sacraments. We discipline our bodies by not giving in to every want or desire–but rather limit ourselves–fasting of certain things at certain times (as many of us will do during the season of Lent, though this is indeed a deep spiritual practice that Christians have practiced throughout the church’s history at all times of year). For in disciplining our bodies, we may also become more disciplined in our spirituality.
As athletes often undergo strict diets to properly nourish and sustain their bodies, we also make every effort to be nourished with God’s holy food in the Word and Eucharist. We exercise our spiritual muscles through careful study and meditation on God’s Word–setting aside times each and every day to be in His Word–to pray diligently–to attend worship and Bible study (for those who exercise at the same place and same time–actually exercise!--bodies & spirits)–that we may thereby be strengthened in our faith–so we may do the good works that the Lord has prepared in advance for us to walk (Eph. 2:10). We run the race of this life with joy and confidence, trusting in our Lord’s mercy, but not forsaking to work at our Christian faith–to let sin creep in and selfishness take over–thereby failing to receive the Lord’s imperishable wreath of salvation as we fall into unbelief and pride–running aimlessly to and fro without purpose and focus–beating the air as a boxer to no avail–letting our sinful desires run wildly out of control.
Yet, it is our Lord who lovingly strengthens us for this race and holy task. Sometimes He may test us with difficult situations–just as He did with the Israelites in the wilderness when they lacked water at Rephidim. He often allows such trials to take place in order that we may focus our attention on Christ–trust in Him to provide for our every good–and not look to our own strength or resources–but grow stronger spiritually by trusting in Him alone.
And our God does abundantly provide for us in every need! He invites us to drink deeply from the wells of His salvation found in His blessed Word–Holy Baptism–and the Lord’s Supper. Through these means our Lord strengthens us in our faith through the forgiveness of sins earned by Jesus’ cross and resurrection. Indeed, we feed on the most nourishing and enriching food–better than any protein drink, low-carb diet, or fruit smoothie. We eat the Lord’s own body and blood in, with, and under the bread and wine for the forgiveness of all of our sins! Nothing could be more revitalizing than that–for this simple meal gives us life everlasting in Jesus.
Therefore, beloved, we don’t run around aimlessly–focusing on things God hasn’t directed us to–our own good works–our own piety–the latest Christian gimmicks or fad–we don’t get sidetracked by the particular issues of our day–but rather we focus on Christ Jesus and His sure and certain Word–that alone which brings us the prize of eternal life.
As Christians, we attempt to keep ourselves strictly under control: body, mind, and spirit. So that we may not be disqualified on the Last Day from receiving the imperishable wreath from the hand of our God. We do not follow our own desires and so be overthrown in the wilderness of this life. Rather, we follow Christ. We drink deeply of Him by faith as we hear His Word–rejoice in it–and drink of His blood in the Holy Supper–that we may ever be reassured of the forgiveness of our sins.
Baptized into Christ, you have been washed clean of all your sins–prepared and renewed for a life of Christian love and charity. A life of love focused on the needs of others, but a love that flows always from the love you have first received from your Spiritual Rock–Jesus Christ Himself. He who was struck with fists, whips, and rods. He who was crushed by the wrath of God on the cross in your place–blood pouring out from nail-pierced hands and feet–blood and water streaming from His spear-pierced side.
So, dear friends, be blessed in your spiritual exercise and discipline. As you are brought to repentance by the Word of God over all your sin–eat and drink deeply from the spiritual food and drink your Lord provides for you. The same spiritual food and drink that strengthened and sustained all Christians before you–from Moses and the Israelites in the wilderness–to St. Paul and the Corinthian church–ALL those who receive the gift of God in Christ of the full remission of all sin. Indeed, look to Jesus–the One who has perfectly run the race for you–who wore the crown of thorns–so that you would receive the imperishable wreath of the crown of everlasting life. Thanks be to God in Christ Jesus. Amen.