1 Corinthians Chapter 9, Do We Save Folks Or Does The LORD?; A Right To Drink Alcohol?; Peter, The “1st. Pope”?; Jesus’ Mother And Brothers; Paid Pastors?; All Scripture is inspired, Useful; Under The Law Of Christ; Strive For Eternal Rewards; Tags; Apostle, apostolos, sent one; Mission, Missionary, missio, mittere; Dispensationalism, oikonomia; Heavenly Crowns

1. 1 Corinthians 9
Do We Save Folks Or Does The LORD?; A Right To
Drink Alcohol?; Is Peter The “1st. Pope”?; Jesus’
Mother And Brothers; Paid Pastors?; All Scripture Is
Inspired, Useful; Under The Law Of Christ; Strive For
Eternal Rewards
Tags; Apostle, apostolos, sent one; Mission, Missionary, missio,
mittere; Dispensationalism, oikonomia; Heavenly Crowns
A beautiful vineyard in the Land of Israel by Boruch Len. The Hebrew word for vineyard is 'kerem'.

2. 1 Cor 9 is last use of the word Vineyard
A beautiful vineyard in the Land of Israel by Boruch Len. The Hebrew word for vineyard is 'kerem'.

3. BIBLE IN FIVE
Pastor Dave Kooyers
Valley Bible Fellowship
Box 433
Boonville CA 95415
http://www.slideshare.net/dkooyers
www.ValleyBibleFellowship.org
(707) 895-2325
God bless you as you examine His Word,
Your servant in Christ, 2Cor. 4:5
These Microsoft PowerPoint presentations are provided "for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ"
(Ephesians 4:12-15). To help Christians to "to grow up in all aspects into Him who is the head, even Christ." So that "we are no longer...tossed here and
there...by every wind of doctrine." They may be downloaded and modified free of charge.
Matthew 10:8 …Freely you received, freely give.

4. Earlier New Testament texts have
been found recently.
• Vern Peterman sent this, “Here is a summary of these recent finds, given in Bible
& Spade, Vol 28 No 2 (Spring 2015), page 48:
• Matthew 12 – 150 AD – the previous oldest copy of anything from Matthew was
P45, dating from 250 AD
• Mark fragment – 81-89 AD – the previous oldest New Testament fragment was
from John, dating from 125 AD
• Luke 2 – 140 AD – the previous oldest text of Luke was P75, dating from 175-225
AD
• Romans 8-9 – 100 to 199 AD – the previous oldest text was P46 – dating from 200
AD
• 1 Corinthians 9 – 150 AD - the previous oldest text was P46 – dating from 200 AD
• Hebrews 1 – 100-199 AD - the previous oldest text was P46 – dating from 200 AD
• Hebrews fragment – 100-199 AD - the previous oldest text was P46 – dating from
200 AD
• And... this is said to be ‘the tip of the iceberg’ (much more is coming!).”

5. 1 Corinthians 9:1
“apostle” or “Apostle”
• NAU 1 Corinthians 9:1 Am I not free? Am I not
an apostle? Have I not seen Jesus our Lord?
Are you not my work in the Lord?
• Greek and English imply “yes” answers.
• <652> ἀπόστολος apostolos
• Meaning: a messenger, one sent on a mission,
an apostle…
• Usage: apostle(19), apostles(52), apostles'(5),
messenger(1), messengers(1), is sent(1).
5

6. “sent”, Mission, Missionary
• mission …a group of people sent on a
mission…
• ORIGIN …from Latin missio(n-), from mittere
‘send.’
• missionary… a person sent on a religious
mission…
• ORIGIN, …from modern Latin missionarius,
from Latin missio (see mission)…
6

7. 1 Corinthians 9:1, An Apostle
• 1 Corinthians 9:1 …Have I not seen Jesus our Lord?…
• When did Paul see Jesus?
• NAU Acts 9:3 …he was approaching Damascus, and
suddenly a light from heaven flashed… heard a voice
saying to him … 7 And the men who traveled with him
stood speechless, hearing the voice, but seeing no one. 8
And Saul got up from the ground, and though his eyes
were open, he could see nothing…
• NAU Acts 23:11 …the Lord stood at his side and said,
"Take courage; for as you have solemnly witnessed to My
cause at Jerusalem, so you must witness at Rome also."
7

8. 1 Corinthians 9:2
Do We Save Folks Or Does The LORD?
• NAU 1 Corinthians 9:2 If to others I am not an
apostle, at least I am to you; for you are the seal
of my apostleship in the Lord.
• NAU 1 Corinthians 9:19 …I have made myself a
slave to all, so that I may win more.
• NAU 1 Corinthians 9:20 …so that I might win
those who are under the Law;
• NAU 1 Corinthians 9:22 To the weak I became
weak, that I might win the weak; I have become
all things to all men, so that I may by all means
save some.
8

9. 1 Corinthians 9:2
Do We Save Folks Or Does The LORD?
• NAU Romans 11:14 if somehow I might move to
jealousy my fellow countrymen and save some of
them.
• NAU 2 Timothy 2:10 For this reason I endure all
things for the sake of those who are chosen, so that
they also may obtain the salvation which is in Christ
Jesus and with it eternal glory.
• NAU 1 Corinthians 10:33 just as I also please all men
in all things, not seeking my own profit but the profit
of the many, so that they may be saved.
9

10. 1 Corinthians 9:2
Do We Save Folks Or Does The LORD?
• NAU 1 Corinthians 1:21 …God was well-pleased through the
foolishness of the message preached to save those who
believe.
• NAU Romans 10:17 So faith comes from hearing, and
hearing by the word of Christ [BYZ=God].
• NAU Acts 10:44 While Peter was still speaking these words,
the Holy Spirit fell upon all those who were listening to the
message.
• NAU Acts 13:48 When the Gentiles heard this, they began
rejoicing and glorifying the word of the Lord; and as many as
had been appointed to eternal life believed.
• 2 Corinthians 3:2, 1 Cor 7:16, 1 Tim 4:16 1
0

11. Let’s Read 1 Corinthians 9:3-5
NAU 1 Corinthians 9:3 My defense to those who
examine me is this: 4 Do we not have a right to eat and
drink? 5 Do we not have a right to take along a believing
wife, even as the rest of the apostles, and the brothers of
the Lord, and Cephas?

12. • NAU 1 Corinthians
9:4 Do we not have a
right to eat and
drink?

13. 1 Corinthians 9:4
A Right To Drink?
• NAU Deuteronomy 14:24 "And if the distance is so great
for you that you are not able to bring the tithe… 25 then
you shall exchange it for money… 26 "And you may spend
the money for whatever your heart desires, for oxen, or
sheep, or wine, or strong drink, or whatever your heart
desires; and there you shall eat in the presence of the LORD
your God and rejoice, you and your household.
• NAU Psalm 104:14 He [the LORD] causes the grass to grow
for the cattle, And vegetation… So that he may bring forth
food from the earth, 15 And wine which makes man's heart
glad, So that he may make his face glisten with oil, And food
which sustains man's heart.
1
3

14. 1 Corinthians 9:5
Peter, The “1st. Pope”?
• 1 Corinthians 9:5 Do we not have a right to take along a
believing wife…?
• Matthew 8:14 When Jesus came into Peter's home, He
saw his mother-in-law lying sick in bed with a fever.
• 1 Timothy 4:1 Now the Spirit expressly says that in
latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed
to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons, 2 speaking
lies in hypocrisy, having their own conscience seared
with a hot iron, 3 forbidding to marry, and commanding
to abstain from foods which God created to be received
with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the
truth.

15. 1 Corinthians 9:5
Jesus’ Mother And Brothers
• 1 Corinthians 9:5 …even as the rest of the
apostles and the brothers of the Lord and
Cephas?
• Matthew 12:46...speaking to the crowds,
behold, His mother and brothers were standing
outside, seeking to speak to Him. 47 Someone
said to Him, "Behold, Your mother and Your
brothers are standing outside seeking to speak
to You.”

16. 1 Corinthians 9:5
Jesus’ Mother And Brothers
• Mar 3:31 And His mother and His brothers
arrived, and standing outside they sent word to
Him, and called Him.
• Mat 13:55 "Is not this the carpenter's son? Is
not His mother called Mary, and His brothers,
James and Joseph and Simon and Judas?
• John 2:12 …He and His mother, and His
brothers, and His disciples; and there they
stayed a few days.
• Galatians 1:19 But I did not see any other of the
apostles except James, the Lord's brother.
16

17. Let’s Read 1 Corinthians 9:6-14

18. 1 Corinthians 9:6
Right To Not Work, Paid Pastors?
• NAU 1 Corinthians 9:6 Or do only Barnabas and I
not have a right to refrain from working?
• NAU 2 Thessalonians 3:10 For even when we
were with you, we used to give you this order: if
anyone is not willing to work, then he is not to
eat, either.
• NAU 1 Timothy 5:17 The elders who rule well are
to be considered worthy of double honor,
especially those who work hard at preaching and
teaching.
1
8

19. 1 Corinthians 9:6
Worker Worthy Of His Wages
• Nancy Stoffregen Depa tells, “My grade school
daughter, Emily, fidgeted nonstop during our new
pastor's first sermon. After 20 minutes of sighing
and wiggling, she turned to me and whispered,
"Mom, does this guy get paid to do this?" I smiled
and nodded my head. Ten more minutes passed and
his sermon still wasn't close to conclusion. Again,
Emily tugged at my arm and in a low voice said,
"How much?”
• Luke 10:7 …the laborer is worthy of his wages…
• 1 Timothy 5:17 The elders who rule well are to be
considered worthy of double honor, especially those
who work hard at preaching and teaching.

20. 1 Corinthians 9:7
• NAU 1 Corinthians 9:7 Who at any time serves
as a soldier at his own expense? Who plants a
vineyard and does not eat the fruit of it? Or
who tends a flock and does not use the milk of
the flock?
2
0

21. 1 Corinthians 9:9, All Scripture
• NAU 1 Corinthians 9:9 …God is not concerned about
oxen, is He?
• NAU 2 Timothy 3:16 All Scripture is inspired by God and
profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for
training in righteousness;
• NAU Romans 15:4 For whatever was written in earlier
times was written for our instruction, so that through
perseverance and the encouragement of the Scriptures
we might have hope.
• NAU Romans 4:23 Now not for his [Abraham] sake only
was it written… 24 but for our sake also…
2
1

22. 1 Corinthians 9:9, All Scripture
• NAU 1 Corinthians 10:11 Now these things happened to
them as an example, and they were written for our
instruction, upon whom the ends of the ages have come.
• Jesus held them accountable to know Scripture;
• NAU Luke 19:41 And when He approached, He saw the
city and wept over it, 42 saying, "If you had known in this
day, even you, the things which make for peace! But now
they have been hidden from your eyes. 43 "For the days
shall come upon you when your enemies will throw up a
bank before you, and surround you, and hem you in on
every side,
2
2

23. 1 Corinthians 9:11 Sowing And
Reaping
• NAU 1 Corinthians 9:11 If we sowed spiritual things
in you, is it too much if we reap material things from
you?
• NAU 2 Corinthians 9:6 Now this I say, he who sows
sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows
bountifully will also reap bountifully.
• NAU Galatians 6:7 Do not be deceived, God is not
mocked; for whatever a man sows, this he will also
reap. 8 For the one who sows to his own flesh will
from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows
to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life. 23

24. Let’s Read 1 Corinthians 9:15-18

25. 1 Corinthians 9:16, Preach
NAU 1 Corinthians 9:16
For if I preach the
gospel, I have nothing
to boast of, for I am
under compulsion; for
woe is me if I do not
preach the gospel.

26. 1 Corinthians 9:16, Preach
• NAU Galatians 5:11 But I, brethren, if I still preach
circumcision, why am I still persecuted? Then the
stumbling block of the cross has been abolished.
• Being spiritual, or even very religious, won't get you
persecuted, but the gospel will.
• NAU 2 Timothy 4:2 preach the word; be ready in season
and out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great
patience and instruction.
• NAU Luke 6:22 "Blessed are you when men hate you,
and ostracize you, and insult you, and scorn your name
as evil, for the sake of the Son of Man.

27. NAU Romans 8:35
Who will separate us
from the love of
Christ? Will
tribulation, or
distress, or
persecution, or
famine, or nakedness,
or peril, or sword?

29. 1 Corinthians 9:16, Preach The Word
• 1 Corinthians 9:16 …woe is me if I do not
preach the gospel.
• Acts 20:26-27 "Therefore, I testify to you this
day that I am innocent of the blood of all men.
27 "For I did not shrink from declaring to you
the whole purpose of God.
• 1 Corinthians 1:17 For Christ did not send me
to baptize, but to preach the gospel…

30. 1Cor 9:16, Evangelism
Reach Out To Someone
• . . . the righteous are bold as a lion. —Proverbs
21:29

31. Evangelism
1Cor 9:16
woe is me if I
do not preach
the gospel…

32. 1 Cor. 9:17, Dispensationalism
• NAU 1 Corinthians 9:17 For if I do this
voluntarily, I have a reward; but if against my
will, I have a stewardship [oikonomia] entrusted
to me.
• KJV 1 Corinthians 9:17 …a dispensation
[oikonomia] of the gospel is committed unto me.
• 4 main uses are Eph. 1:10, 3:2, Colossians 1:25,
1 Cor. 9:17
• NAU Ephesians 3:2 if indeed you have heard
of the stewardship [oikonomia] of God's grace
which was given to me for you;

33. 1 Cor. 9:17, Dispensationalism
gracethrufaith.com
• Dispensationalism
• Wednesday, March 19th, 2014Past Featured
• Theology
• A Bible Study by Jack Kelley
• I’ve been answering questions from so many people for so long that I sometimes forget not everyone who comes to the site has read all of them. As a case in point, I recently answered a question about the flood where I said it
was the second in a series of seven times where mankind would violate the terms of an agreement with God and bring judgment upon themselves. I didn’t think anymore about it until I received several questions from people
asking what I was talking about and could I list the other six times. I realized they hadn’t read the several answers I have posted over the years on the theological system I follow called dispensationalism.
• What Is Dispensationalism?
• Dispensationalism is a method for interpreting the Bible. The Greek word from which we get dispensation appears only 7 times in the New Testament and is only translated as such in four of those, all by Paul and all in the King
James (1 Cor. 9:17, Ephes. 1:10, Ephes. 3:2, Colossians 1:25). Other meanings of this word are stewardship, administration, and economy.
• What Do Dispensationalists Believe?
• A dispensationalist believes that throughout history God has dealt with humanity in different ways at different times as part of the process of revealing His character and His plan for mankind, and calls these different periods
dispensations.
• For example, while salvation has always been by faith, the way to salvation through much of the Old Testament was through Israel and required obedience to the Law as well. That is not the case during the Church Age. And
while eternal security is promised to the Church, it was not promised to Israel. Neither was the Holy Spirit sealed within Old Testament believers as is the case with believers in the Church (Ephes. 1:13-14). Therefore the way
God dealt with Israel in the Old Testament took place during a different dispensation than His dealings with the Church in the New Testament. Get the idea?
• This is one of the reasons I’ve given in support of my position that Eternal Security won’t be available to post rapture believers. The last seven years before the Lord’s return (Daniel’s 70th Week) will be a time when God deals
primarily with Israel again, as He did in the Old Testament. He promised Israel these seven years and has yet to provide them. Daniel 9:24-27 explains this and tells us a temple will be built in Israel during that time, and that
animal sacrifices will once again be offered on its altar. While these things were required during Old Testament times they would be both unnecessary and undesirable now unless the Church Age first comes to an end,
something that will happen with the rapture. This is why so many dispensationalists believe the rapture will happen before Daniel’s 70th Week begins.
• Some say that dispensationalism is a relatively modern system of theology first proposed by John Nelson Darby in the mid 1800′s. But evidence that the early church believed in the principles of dispensationalism can be found in
the 2nd Century writings of Justin Martyr and Irenaeus. Justin Martyr saw four distinct periods (dispensations) and gave them the names of the principle players, Adam to Abraham; Abraham to Moses; Moses to Christ; and
Christ to Eternity. Irenaeus also saw four periods, from the Creation to the Flood, from the Flood to the Law, from the Law to the Gospel, and from the Gospel to Eternity.
• More recently most scholars have settled on seven dispensations. Each one has begun with an agreement between God and man that man has subsequently broken, causing the agreement to fail and requiring a judgment. Here
are the seven dispensations in chronological order.
• 1) Innocence … Between the Creation and the Fall of Man in the Garden. God interacted freely and personally with Adam and Eve during this period. Then they broke the only rule He had given them (Genesis 3:11-13) and were
expelled from the Garden. Sin entered the world.
• 2) Conscience … Between the Fall and the Flood, God allowed man’s conscience to govern his behavior without Divine interference. Because of the sin nature passed down from mankind’s first parents, the result was that “the
wickedness of man was great in the earth, and every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually” (Genesis 6:5). God pronounced judgment upon the world and destroyed all but 8 members of the human
race in the Great Flood.
• 3) Human Government … from the Flood to Abraham. After the flood God told Noah to go forth and replenish the Earth (Genesis 9:7). Noah’s descendants disobeyed God’s commandment, setting about instead to build a great
city and tower from which to study the stars (Genesis 11:4). God confused man’s language, causing them to stop building the tower, and scattered them through out the world (Genesis 11:8-9).
• 4) Promise … from Abraham to Moses. God promised Abraham a homeland for his descendants (Genesis 17:8) and a son for him and Sarah (Genesis 17:15-16). But they grew tired of waiting and produced a son on their own,
who they named Ishmael (Genesis 16:1-2.15). When God’s promised son Isaac was born, Ishmael was sent away (Genesis 21:8-13) causing enmity between the Jews (descendants of Isaac) and Arabs (descendants of Ishmael)
that continues to this day. After Mohammed, a descendant of Ishmael’s, founded Islam this enmity took on religious significance and became even more intense.
• 5) Law … from Moses to Jesus. God gave Moses the 10 Commandments and promised the Jews a life of peace and plenty in a Kingdom of their own if they obeyed (Exodus 19:5, Exodus 20:1-17). After repeated periods of
disobedience which included rejecting their Messiah King, God withdrew His offer of the Kingdom and expelled them from their land (Matt. 21:43, Luke 19:41-44).
• 6) Grace … from Pentecost to the Rapture, the Church Age. No longer requiring righteousness through works, God granted a righteousness by grace through faith in the completed work of Christ to all who accept, whether Jew
or Gentile (Romans 3:21-24). Most will not accept and will be punished through eternity.
• Note: It’s important to realize that Grace didn’t replace Law, it just interrupted it. Law has another 7 years to run, called Daniel’s 70th Week (Daniel 9:24-27), which fills the time between the Rapture and the 2nd Coming.
During this time all the nations to which Israel has been scattered will be completely destroyed and Israel will be disciplined in preparation for receiving the Kingdom (Jeremiah 30:4-11).
• 7) The Kingdom … the 1000 Year Reign of Christ that begins with the 2nd Coming. This time Israel will accept the Kingdom offer (Zechariah 12:10, Zechariah 14:8-9). Satan will be bound (Rev. 20:2), all unbelievers will be
expelled from the planet (Matt. 25:41-46), and God will once again dwell in the midst of His people (Ezek. 43:6-7). You’d think man could finally live in a manner pleasing to God. But he can’t. With the exception of Israel, the
world will rebel against God and His people. God will send fire to consume them all (Rev. 20:7-10).
• What Is God’s Purpose In This?
• I think the overarching purpose of these seven dispensations is to demonstrate that there are no conditions under which natural man can behave in a manner acceptable to God. Only the Church is able to do so and then only
after being perfected in the rapture. This why Paul wrote that after the end of the Millennium when it comes time for Jesus to present the kingdom to the Father, He will first destroy all dominion, authority and power (1 Cor.
15:24). What that means is when we enter eternity neither mankind nor the angels will ever have the desire or ability to disobey God again. That’s why there isn’t an eighth dispensation called Eternity.
• Two of the major changes that dispensationalism as we know it today brought upon the post reformation world were the return to a literal interpretation of Scripture, especially where it deals with prophecy, and the realization
that there’s a distinct difference between Israel and the Church in the End Times. It’s the best tool I know of for determining the context of a passage and understanding who its intended recipients are. (Reform theology does
not adhere to a literal interpretation of Scripture, treats end times prophecy as allegorical, and blurs the distinction between Israel and the Church to the point where some claim the Church has replaced Israel in God’s plan
making Israel an unnecessary part of our times.)
• Most dispensationalists believe in a pre-tribulation rapture followed by Daniel’s 70th week with its accompanying judgments and a literal Kingdom of God that will begin with the 2nd Coming and last for 1,000 years. During this
time Israel will be God’s Kingdom on Earth while the Church will be God’s Kingdom in Heaven.
• So this is what dispensationalists believe. It’s what I believe and is the theological foundation for all the articles and answers to be found on this site. This is why I said the Great Flood was the second in a series of seven times
where mankind would violate the terms of an agreement with God and bring judgment upon themselves. Selah 06-30-12
• http://gracethrufaith.com/topical-studies/dispensationalism-2/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Gracethrufaith+%28GraceThruFaith%29
Don't squint! The complete article
follows after the THE END slide.

34. 1 Cor. 9:17, Dispensationalism
gracethrufaith.com
• gracethrufaith.com, “What Is Dispensationalism?
• Dispensationalism is a method for interpreting
the Bible. The Greek word from which we get
dispensation appears only 7 times in the New
Testament and is only translated as such in
four of those, all by Paul and all in the King
James (1 Cor. 9:17, Ephes. 1:10, Ephes. 3:2,
Colossians 1:25). Other meanings of this word
are stewardship, administration, and
economy.”

35. What Do Dispensationalists Believe?
gracethrufaith.com
• “A dispensationalist believes that throughout history God
has dealt with humanity in different ways at different
times as part of the process of revealing His character and
His plan for mankind, and calls these different periods
dispensations. For example, while salvation has always
been by faith, the way to salvation through much of the
Old Testament was through Israel and required obedience
to the Law as well. That is not the case during the Church
Age. And while eternal security is promised to the Church,
it was not promised to Israel. Neither was the Holy Spirit
sealed within Old Testament believers as is the case with
believers in the Church (Ephes. 1:13-14). Therefore the
way God dealt with Israel in the Old Testament took place
during a different dispensation than His dealings with the
Church in the New Testament. Get the idea?”

36. Let’s Read 1 Corinthians 9:19-23

37. 1 Corinthians 9:20
Under The Law Of Christ
• NAU 1 Corinthians 9:20 To the Jews I became as a
Jew, so that I might win Jews; to those who are
under the Law, as under the Law though not being
myself under the Law, so that I might win those
who are under the Law;
• NAU 1 Corinthians 9:21 to those who are without
law, as without law, though not being without the
law of God but under the law of Christ, so that I
might win those who are without law.
• Rom. 2:12, 3:19, 1 Co. 9:20-21, Gal. 3:23, 4:4-5, 5:18

38. 1 Corinthians 9:20
Paul Was Ceremonially Clean
• 1 Cor 9:20 To the Jews I became as a Jew…
• Acts 24:18 I was ceremonially clean when they
found me in the temple courts doing this…
• Paul kept the Law but was not under the Law…
• NAU Romans 8:2 For the law of the Spirit of life in
Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and
of death.
• NAU 1 Corinthians 15:56 The sting of death is sin,
and the power of sin is the law; 57 but thanks be to
God, who gives us the victory through our Lord
Jesus Christ.

39. 1 Corinthians 9:21, The Law Of Christ
• NAU Galatians 6:2 Bear one another's burdens, and
thereby fulfill the law of Christ.
• NAU Romans 8:2 For the law of the Spirit of life in
Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of
death.
• NAU Romans 10:4 For Christ is the end of the law for
righteousness to everyone who believes.
• NAU Galatians 5:4 You have been severed from Christ,
you who are seeking to be justified by law; you have
fallen from grace.
• Romans 6:14 …you are not under law, but…grace;
• John 1:17 . . . the law was given through Moses; grace
and truth were realized through Jesus Christ;

40. 1 Corinthians 9:23, Can God Use Me?
NAU 1 Corinthians
9:23 I do all things for
the sake of the
gospel, so that I may
[subjunctive] become a
fellow partaker of it.
Paul looked toward
eternal rewards

41. Let’s Read 1 Corinthians 9:24-27

42. 1 Corinthians 9:24-27
Strive For Eternal Rewards
• NAU 1 Corinthians 9:24 …run in a race… Run
in such a way that you may win. 25 …
competes …exercises self-control in all things.
… an imperishable. 26 … I run… I box …not
beating the air; 27 … I buffet my body and
make it my slave, lest … I myself should be
disqualified.

43. 1 Corinthians 9:24, "run" for Christ
• NAU 1 Corinthians 9:24 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.
• Every Christian has been “qualified” to run the race. Not
every Christian we will receive a reward for their service
to Christ;
• NAU 1 Corinthians 3:13 each man's work will become
evident; for the day will show it because it is to be
revealed with fire, and the fire itself will test the quality
of each man's work. 14 If any man's work which he has
built upon it remains, he shall receive a reward. 15 If any
man's work is burned up, he shall suffer loss; but he
himself shall be saved, yet so as through fire.
• We should "run" for Christ like Paul.

44. 1 Corinthians 9:24, "run" for Christ
• NAU Hebrews 12:1 Therefore, since we have so
great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also
lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so
easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance
the race that is set before us,
• NAU Hebrews 10:36 For you have need of
endurance, so that when you have done the will of
God, you may receive what was promised [crowns,
rewards].
• NAU 1 Peter 5:4 And when the Chief Shepherd
appears, you will receive the unfading crown of
glory.
• NAU Revelation 3:11 …hold fast what you have, so
that no one will take your crown.

45. 1 Corinthians 9:24-27
Bema Seat, Rewards
45

46. 1 Corinthians 9:25, GotQuestions.org
Five Heavenly Crowns
• NKJ 1 Corinthians 9:25 And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown.
• Question: "What are the heavenly crowns that believers can receive in Heaven?"
Answer: There are five heavenly crowns mentioned in the New Testament that will be awarded to believers. They are the imperishable crown, the crown of rejoicing, the crown of
righteousness, the crown of glory, and the crown of life. The Greek word translated “crown” isstephanos (the source for the name Stephen the martyr) and means “a badge of royalty, a prize
in the public games or a symbol of honor generally.” Used during the ancient Greek games, it referred to a wreath or garland of leaves placed on a victor’s head as a reward for winning an
athletic contest. As such, this word is used figuratively in the New Testament of the rewards of heaven God promises those who are faithful. Paul’s passage in 1 Corinthians 9:24-25 best
defines for us how these crowns are awarded.
1) The Imperishable Crown – (1 Corinthians 9:24-25) “Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. And everyone
who competes for the prize is temperate [disciplined] in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown” (NKJV). All things on this earth are subject
to decay and will perish. Jesus urges us to not store our treasures on earth “where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal” (Matthew6:19). This is analogous to what Paul
was saying about that wreath of leaves that was soon to turn brittle and fall apart. But not so the heavenly crown; faithful endurance wins a heavenly reward which is “an inheritance
incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you” (1 Peter 1:3-5).
2) The Crown of Rejoicing – (1 Thessalonians 2:19) “For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Is it not even you in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming?” The apostle
Paul tells us in Philippians 4:4 to “rejoice always in the Lord” for all the bountiful blessings our gracious God has showered upon us. As Christians we have more in this life to rejoice about than
anyone else. Luke tells us there is rejoicing even now in heaven (Luke 15:7). The crown of rejoicing will be our reward where “God will wipe away every tear . . . there shall be no more death,
nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away” (Revelation 21:4).
3) The Crown of Righteousness – (2 Timothy 4:8) “Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me
only but also to all who have loved His appearing.” We inherit this crown through the righteousness of Christ which is what gives us a right to it, and without which it cannot be obtained.
Because it is obtained and possessed in a righteous way, and not by force and deceit as earthly crowns sometimes are, it is an everlasting crown, promised to all who love the Lord and eagerly
wait for His return. Through our enduring the discouragements, persecutions, sufferings, or even death, we know assuredly our reward is with Christ in eternity (Philippians 3:20). This crown
is not for those who depend upon their own sense of righteousness or of their own works. Such an attitude breeds only arrogance and pride, not a longing, a fervent desire to be with the
Lord.
4) The Crown of Glory – (1 Peter 5:4) “And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that does not fade away.” Though Peter is addressing the elders, we must also
remember that the crown will be awarded to all those who long for or love His appearing. This word “glory” is an interesting word referring to the very nature of God and His actions. It entails
His great splendor and brightness. Recall Stephen who, while being stoned to death, was able to look into the heavens and see the glory of God (Acts 7:55-56). This word also means that the
praise and honor we bestow to God alone is due Him because of who He is (Isaiah 42:8, 48:11; Galatians 1:5). It also recognizes that believers are incredibly blessed to enter into the kingdom,
into the very likeness of Christ Himself. For as Paul so eloquently put it, “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be
revealed in us” (Romans 8:18 NKJV).
5) The Crown of Life – (Revelation 2:10) “Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and
you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.” This crown is for all believers, but is especially dear to those who endure sufferings, who bravely
confront persecution for Jesus, even to the point of death. In Scripture the word “life” is often used to show a relationship that is right with God. It was Jesus who said, “I have come that they
may have life and that they may have it more abundantly” (John 10:10). Just as things such as air, food, and water are vital for our physical lives, Jesus provides us what is required for our
spiritual lives. He is the One who provides “living water.” He is the “bread of life” (John 4:10, 6:35). We know that our earthly lives will end. But we have the amazing promise that comes only
to those who come to God through Jesus: “And this is the promise that He has promised us—eternal life” (1 John 2:25).
James tells us that this crown of life is for all those who love God (James 1:12). The question then is how do we demonstrate our love for God? The apostle John answers this for us: “For this is
the love of God, that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not burdensome” (1 John 5:3). As His children we must keep His commandments, obeying Him, always
remaining faithful. So, as we endure the inevitable trials, pains, heartaches, and tribulations—as long as we live—may we ever move forward, always “looking unto Jesus, the author and
finisher of our faith” (Hebrews 12:2) and receive the crown of life that awaits us.
Recommended Resources: Your Eternal Reward: Triumph & Tears at the Judgment Seat of Christ by Erwin Lutzer and Logos Bible Software.
Don't squint! The complete article
follows after the THE END slide.

47. 1 Corinthians 9:25, GotQuestions.org
Five Heavenly Crowns
• 1) The Imperishable Crown, 1 Cor 9:24-25
• 2) The Crown of Rejoicing, 1 Thess 2:19
• 3) The Crown of Righteousness, 2 Tim 4:8
• 4) The Crown of Glory, Peter 5:4
• 5) The Crown of Life, Revelation 2:10
4
7

48. • Rigged Wrestling: The Ancient Fix Is In
• Noah Wiener • 04/25/2014
• This third-century contract offered several thousand drachmas for a wrestler to intentionally lose his match.
• Ancient sports were no joke. The Olympics were some of most important and sacred festivals in the ancient world. And ancient combat sports were brutal displays of technical skill. Or at
least, that was true some of the time. A recently translated document reveals that some ancient athletes—like some of their modern counterparts—sacrificed their integrity for the sake of
a good show, or swindled audiences for the sake of a bribe.
• In 267 C.E. in Antinopolis, Egypt, Nicantinous stepped into the wrestling ring with Demetrius. Nicantinous’s goal was to throw Demetrius to the ground three times to win the match.
Demetrius’s goal was to get thrown down to the ground three times. Why? He signed a contract to throw the fight.
• King’s College London professor Dominic Rathbone recently translated a contract stating that Demetrius would earn three thousand eight hundred drachmas of silver if “when competing in
the competition … [Demetrius will] fall three times and yield.” According to a recent article in LiveScience, even if the judge recognized that the match was fixed, Demetrius would still be
paid. However, the contract, written by the father of Nicantinous, states that if Demetrius does not throw the match, then “you are of necessity to pay as penalty to my [same] son on
account of wrongdoing three talents of silver of old coinage without any delay or inventive argument.”
• In the Archaeology Odyssey article, “Ancient Combat Sports” (available as a part of the FREE eBook The Olympic Games: How They All Began), Michael B Poliakoff describes ancient
wrestling matches:
•
• Unlike boxing and pancratium, a wrestling match typically did not end with submission or incapacitation, but rather with one competitor achieving technical mastery over his opponent. The
ancients admired wrestling for the level of skill and science it required. Homer’s Odysseus is the archetypal clever wrestler who deflects and neutralizes the massive strength of a far larger
man (Ajax) in Book 23 of the Iliad. A statue honoring one Aristodamus of Elis for his victory at Olympia in 388 B.C.E. is inscribed with text reading, “I did not win by virtue of the size of my
body, but by my technique.” In the Laws, Plato praised wrestling as a form of exercise well suited for the training of Athens’s youth. Plutarch referred to the sport as “the most technical and
the trickiest,” and a surviving section of first- or second-century C.E. wrestling manual shows how well developed the drills for tactics and counter tactics were.
• To gain a fall, the Greek wrestler had to take his opponent down, making the man’s back or shoulders touch the ground or stretching him out prone. Three falls were necessary to win a
contest. Not every fall was clear. Greek literature sometimes refers to disputes over whether a fall occurred. The tactics depicted in Greek art suggest that very forceful holds and throws
were common. Vase paintings and sculpture show headlocks and hip throws, shoulder throws and body lifts, including the reverse body lift that the formidable Russian wrestler Aleksander
Karelin has used with such devastating effect in recent Olympiads. If a fall did not result from a wrestler’s being thrown on his back, action would continue on the ground. Joints could be
forced against their normal range of movement, and sculptures show a variety of arm bars and shoulder locks that would be illegal in modern Olympic wrestling.
• The struggle was likely to be bitter and intense, however sophisticated the tactics. Greek sources are quite clear that choking an opponent into submission, though apparently uncommon,
could result in a legitimate fall. The great British historian of ancient sport E.N. Gardiner (1864-1930) may have written that “Wrestling, at all events in the early days before it was corrupted
by professionalism, was free from all suggestions of that brutality which has often brought discredit on one of the noblest of sports,” but the evidence proves otherwise. A recently
discovered inscription from Olympia records a judges’ decree passed in the late sixth century B.C.E. forbidding wrestlers to break each other’s fingers and empowering the judges to flog
athletes who disobeyed the rule. Nevertheless, Leontiskos of Messene won the Olympic crown in wrestling in both 456 and 452 B.C.E. by using this tactic.
• Click here to download the FREE eBook The Olympic Games: How They All Began or click here to read more about the rigged contract in LiveScience.
• http://www.biblicalarchaeology.org/daily/ancient-cultures/rigged-wrestling-the-ancient-fix-is-
in/?mqsc=E3771870&utm_source=WhatCountsEmail&utm_medium=BHD+Daily%20Newsletter&utm_campaign=E4B428
Rigged Wrestling:
The Ancient Fix Is In (wrestling)
This third-century contract offered
several thousand drachmas for a
wrestler to intentionally lose his match.
Don't squint! The complete article
follows after the THE END slide.

49. 1 Corinthians 9:27, Be prepared
• 1 Cor 9:27, …I myself will not be disqualified.
• Unknown, “As the minister stepped up to the
pulpit he discovered to his chagrin that he had
forgotten his sermon notes. As it was too late
to send someone for them, he turned to the
congregation and said, by way of apology, that
this morning he should have to depend upon
the Lord for what he might say, but that for
the evening service, he would be better
prepared.”
• 2 Timothy 2:15, 21

50. In closing;
50

51. THE END
51

52. 1 Cor. 9:17, Dispensationalism
gracethrufaith.com
• Dispensationalism
• Wednesday, March 19th, 2014Past Featured
• Theology
• A Bible Study by Jack Kelley
• I’ve been answering questions from so many people for so long that I sometimes forget not everyone who comes to the site has read all of them. As a case in point, I recently answered a question about the flood where I said it
was the second in a series of seven times where mankind would violate the terms of an agreement with God and bring judgment upon themselves. I didn’t think anymore about it until I received several questions from people
asking what I was talking about and could I list the other six times. I realized they hadn’t read the several answers I have posted over the years on the theological system I follow called dispensationalism.
• What Is Dispensationalism?
• Dispensationalism is a method for interpreting the Bible. The Greek word from which we get dispensation appears only 7 times in the New Testament and is only translated as such in four of those, all by Paul and all in the King
James (1 Cor. 9:17, Ephes. 1:10, Ephes. 3:2, Colossians 1:25). Other meanings of this word are stewardship, administration, and economy.
• What Do Dispensationalists Believe?
• A dispensationalist believes that throughout history God has dealt with humanity in different ways at different times as part of the process of revealing His character and His plan for mankind, and calls these different periods
dispensations.
• For example, while salvation has always been by faith, the way to salvation through much of the Old Testament was through Israel and required obedience to the Law as well. That is not the case during the Church Age. And
while eternal security is promised to the Church, it was not promised to Israel. Neither was the Holy Spirit sealed within Old Testament believers as is the case with believers in the Church (Ephes. 1:13-14). Therefore the way
God dealt with Israel in the Old Testament took place during a different dispensation than His dealings with the Church in the New Testament. Get the idea?
• This is one of the reasons I’ve given in support of my position that Eternal Security won’t be available to post rapture believers. The last seven years before the Lord’s return (Daniel’s 70th Week) will be a time when God deals
primarily with Israel again, as He did in the Old Testament. He promised Israel these seven years and has yet to provide them. Daniel 9:24-27 explains this and tells us a temple will be built in Israel during that time, and that
animal sacrifices will once again be offered on its altar. While these things were required during Old Testament times they would be both unnecessary and undesirable now unless the Church Age first comes to an end,
something that will happen with the rapture. This is why so many dispensationalists believe the rapture will happen before Daniel’s 70th Week begins.
• Some say that dispensationalism is a relatively modern system of theology first proposed by John Nelson Darby in the mid 1800′s. But evidence that the early church believed in the principles of dispensationalism can be found in
the 2nd Century writings of Justin Martyr and Irenaeus. Justin Martyr saw four distinct periods (dispensations) and gave them the names of the principle players, Adam to Abraham; Abraham to Moses; Moses to Christ; and
Christ to Eternity. Irenaeus also saw four periods, from the Creation to the Flood, from the Flood to the Law, from the Law to the Gospel, and from the Gospel to Eternity.
• More recently most scholars have settled on seven dispensations. Each one has begun with an agreement between God and man that man has subsequently broken, causing the agreement to fail and requiring a judgment. Here
are the seven dispensations in chronological order.
• 1) Innocence … Between the Creation and the Fall of Man in the Garden. God interacted freely and personally with Adam and Eve during this period. Then they broke the only rule He had given them (Genesis 3:11-13) and were
expelled from the Garden. Sin entered the world.
• 2) Conscience … Between the Fall and the Flood, God allowed man’s conscience to govern his behavior without Divine interference. Because of the sin nature passed down from mankind’s first parents, the result was that “the
wickedness of man was great in the earth, and every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually” (Genesis 6:5). God pronounced judgment upon the world and destroyed all but 8 members of the human
race in the Great Flood.
• 3) Human Government … from the Flood to Abraham. After the flood God told Noah to go forth and replenish the Earth (Genesis 9:7). Noah’s descendants disobeyed God’s commandment, setting about instead to build a great
city and tower from which to study the stars (Genesis 11:4). God confused man’s language, causing them to stop building the tower, and scattered them through out the world (Genesis 11:8-9).
• 4) Promise … from Abraham to Moses. God promised Abraham a homeland for his descendants (Genesis 17:8) and a son for him and Sarah (Genesis 17:15-16). But they grew tired of waiting and produced a son on their own,
who they named Ishmael (Genesis 16:1-2.15). When God’s promised son Isaac was born, Ishmael was sent away (Genesis 21:8-13) causing enmity between the Jews (descendants of Isaac) and Arabs (descendants of Ishmael)
that continues to this day. After Mohammed, a descendant of Ishmael’s, founded Islam this enmity took on religious significance and became even more intense.
• 5) Law … from Moses to Jesus. God gave Moses the 10 Commandments and promised the Jews a life of peace and plenty in a Kingdom of their own if they obeyed (Exodus 19:5, Exodus 20:1-17). After repeated periods of
disobedience which included rejecting their Messiah King, God withdrew His offer of the Kingdom and expelled them from their land (Matt. 21:43, Luke 19:41-44).
• 6) Grace … from Pentecost to the Rapture, the Church Age. No longer requiring righteousness through works, God granted a righteousness by grace through faith in the completed work of Christ to all who accept, whether Jew
or Gentile (Romans 3:21-24). Most will not accept and will be punished through eternity.
• Note: It’s important to realize that Grace didn’t replace Law, it just interrupted it. Law has another 7 years to run, called Daniel’s 70th Week (Daniel 9:24-27), which fills the time between the Rapture and the 2nd Coming.
During this time all the nations to which Israel has been scattered will be completely destroyed and Israel will be disciplined in preparation for receiving the Kingdom (Jeremiah 30:4-11).
• 7) The Kingdom … the 1000 Year Reign of Christ that begins with the 2nd Coming. This time Israel will accept the Kingdom offer (Zechariah 12:10, Zechariah 14:8-9). Satan will be bound (Rev. 20:2), all unbelievers will be
expelled from the planet (Matt. 25:41-46), and God will once again dwell in the midst of His people (Ezek. 43:6-7). You’d think man could finally live in a manner pleasing to God. But he can’t. With the exception of Israel, the
world will rebel against God and His people. God will send fire to consume them all (Rev. 20:7-10).
• What Is God’s Purpose In This?
• I think the overarching purpose of these seven dispensations is to demonstrate that there are no conditions under which natural man can behave in a manner acceptable to God. Only the Church is able to do so and then only
after being perfected in the rapture. This why Paul wrote that after the end of the Millennium when it comes time for Jesus to present the kingdom to the Father, He will first destroy all dominion, authority and power (1 Cor.
15:24). What that means is when we enter eternity neither mankind nor the angels will ever have the desire or ability to disobey God again. That’s why there isn’t an eighth dispensation called Eternity.
• Two of the major changes that dispensationalism as we know it today brought upon the post reformation world were the return to a literal interpretation of Scripture, especially where it deals with prophecy, and the realization
that there’s a distinct difference between Israel and the Church in the End Times. It’s the best tool I know of for determining the context of a passage and understanding who its intended recipients are. (Reform theology does
not adhere to a literal interpretation of Scripture, treats end times prophecy as allegorical, and blurs the distinction between Israel and the Church to the point where some claim the Church has replaced Israel in God’s plan
making Israel an unnecessary part of our times.)
• Most dispensationalists believe in a pre-tribulation rapture followed by Daniel’s 70th week with its accompanying judgments and a literal Kingdom of God that will begin with the 2nd Coming and last for 1,000 years. During this
time Israel will be God’s Kingdom on Earth while the Church will be God’s Kingdom in Heaven.
• So this is what dispensationalists believe. It’s what I believe and is the theological foundation for all the articles and answers to be found on this site. This is why I said the Great Flood was the second in a series of seven times
where mankind would violate the terms of an agreement with God and bring judgment upon themselves. Selah 06-30-12
• http://gracethrufaith.com/topical-studies/dispensationalism-2/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Gracethrufaith+%28GraceThruFaith%29
Don't squint! The complete article follows after the THE END slide.

53. 1 Corinthians 9:25, GotQuestions.org
Five Heavenly Crowns
• NKJ 1 Corinthians 9:25 And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown.
• Question: "What are the heavenly crowns that believers can receive in Heaven?"
Answer: There are five heavenly crowns mentioned in the New Testament that will be awarded to believers. They are the imperishable crown, the crown of rejoicing, the crown of
righteousness, the crown of glory, and the crown of life. The Greek word translated “crown” isstephanos (the source for the name Stephen the martyr) and means “a badge of royalty, a prize
in the public games or a symbol of honor generally.” Used during the ancient Greek games, it referred to a wreath or garland of leaves placed on a victor’s head as a reward for winning an
athletic contest. As such, this word is used figuratively in the New Testament of the rewards of heaven God promises those who are faithful. Paul’s passage in 1 Corinthians 9:24-25 best
defines for us how these crowns are awarded.
1) The Imperishable Crown – (1 Corinthians 9:24-25) “Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. And everyone
who competes for the prize is temperate [disciplined] in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown” (NKJV). All things on this earth are subject
to decay and will perish. Jesus urges us to not store our treasures on earth “where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal” (Matthew6:19). This is analogous to what Paul
was saying about that wreath of leaves that was soon to turn brittle and fall apart. But not so the heavenly crown; faithful endurance wins a heavenly reward which is “an inheritance
incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you” (1 Peter 1:3-5).
2) The Crown of Rejoicing – (1 Thessalonians 2:19) “For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Is it not even you in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming?” The apostle
Paul tells us in Philippians 4:4 to “rejoice always in the Lord” for all the bountiful blessings our gracious God has showered upon us. As Christians we have more in this life to rejoice about than
anyone else. Luke tells us there is rejoicing even now in heaven (Luke 15:7). The crown of rejoicing will be our reward where “God will wipe away every tear . . . there shall be no more death,
nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away” (Revelation 21:4).
3) The Crown of Righteousness – (2 Timothy 4:8) “Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me
only but also to all who have loved His appearing.” We inherit this crown through the righteousness of Christ which is what gives us a right to it, and without which it cannot be obtained.
Because it is obtained and possessed in a righteous way, and not by force and deceit as earthly crowns sometimes are, it is an everlasting crown, promised to all who love the Lord and eagerly
wait for His return. Through our enduring the discouragements, persecutions, sufferings, or even death, we know assuredly our reward is with Christ in eternity (Philippians 3:20). This crown
is not for those who depend upon their own sense of righteousness or of their own works. Such an attitude breeds only arrogance and pride, not a longing, a fervent desire to be with the
Lord.
4) The Crown of Glory – (1 Peter 5:4) “And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that does not fade away.” Though Peter is addressing the elders, we must also
remember that the crown will be awarded to all those who long for or love His appearing. This word “glory” is an interesting word referring to the very nature of God and His actions. It entails
His great splendor and brightness. Recall Stephen who, while being stoned to death, was able to look into the heavens and see the glory of God (Acts 7:55-56). This word also means that the
praise and honor we bestow to God alone is due Him because of who He is (Isaiah 42:8, 48:11; Galatians 1:5). It also recognizes that believers are incredibly blessed to enter into the kingdom,
into the very likeness of Christ Himself. For as Paul so eloquently put it, “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be
revealed in us” (Romans 8:18 NKJV).
5) The Crown of Life – (Revelation 2:10) “Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and
you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.” This crown is for all believers, but is especially dear to those who endure sufferings, who bravely
confront persecution for Jesus, even to the point of death. In Scripture the word “life” is often used to show a relationship that is right with God. It was Jesus who said, “I have come that they
may have life and that they may have it more abundantly” (John 10:10). Just as things such as air, food, and water are vital for our physical lives, Jesus provides us what is required for our
spiritual lives. He is the One who provides “living water.” He is the “bread of life” (John 4:10, 6:35). We know that our earthly lives will end. But we have the amazing promise that comes only
to those who come to God through Jesus: “And this is the promise that He has promised us—eternal life” (1 John 2:25).
James tells us that this crown of life is for all those who love God (James 1:12). The question then is how do we demonstrate our love for God? The apostle John answers this for us: “For this is
the love of God, that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not burdensome” (1 John 5:3). As His children we must keep His commandments, obeying Him, always
remaining faithful. So, as we endure the inevitable trials, pains, heartaches, and tribulations—as long as we live—may we ever move forward, always “looking unto Jesus, the author and
finisher of our faith” (Hebrews 12:2) and receive the crown of life that awaits us.
Recommended Resources: Your Eternal Reward: Triumph & Tears at the Judgment Seat of Christ by Erwin Lutzer and Logos Bible Software.
Don't squint! The complete article follows after the THE END slide.

54. • Rigged Wrestling: The Ancient Fix Is In
• Noah Wiener • 04/25/2014
• This third-century contract offered several thousand drachmas for a wrestler to intentionally lose his match.
• Ancient sports were no joke. The Olympics were some of most important and sacred festivals in the ancient world. And ancient combat sports were brutal displays of technical skill. Or at
least, that was true some of the time. A recently translated document reveals that some ancient athletes—like some of their modern counterparts—sacrificed their integrity for the sake of
a good show, or swindled audiences for the sake of a bribe.
• In 267 C.E. in Antinopolis, Egypt, Nicantinous stepped into the wrestling ring with Demetrius. Nicantinous’s goal was to throw Demetrius to the ground three times to win the match.
Demetrius’s goal was to get thrown down to the ground three times. Why? He signed a contract to throw the fight.
• King’s College London professor Dominic Rathbone recently translated a contract stating that Demetrius would earn three thousand eight hundred drachmas of silver if “when competing in
the competition … [Demetrius will] fall three times and yield.” According to a recent article in LiveScience, even if the judge recognized that the match was fixed, Demetrius would still be
paid. However, the contract, written by the father of Nicantinous, states that if Demetrius does not throw the match, then “you are of necessity to pay as penalty to my [same] son on
account of wrongdoing three talents of silver of old coinage without any delay or inventive argument.”
• In the Archaeology Odyssey article, “Ancient Combat Sports” (available as a part of the FREE eBook The Olympic Games: How They All Began), Michael B Poliakoff describes ancient
wrestling matches:
•
• Unlike boxing and pancratium, a wrestling match typically did not end with submission or incapacitation, but rather with one competitor achieving technical mastery over his opponent. The
ancients admired wrestling for the level of skill and science it required. Homer’s Odysseus is the archetypal clever wrestler who deflects and neutralizes the massive strength of a far larger
man (Ajax) in Book 23 of the Iliad. A statue honoring one Aristodamus of Elis for his victory at Olympia in 388 B.C.E. is inscribed with text reading, “I did not win by virtue of the size of my
body, but by my technique.” In the Laws, Plato praised wrestling as a form of exercise well suited for the training of Athens’s youth. Plutarch referred to the sport as “the most technical and
the trickiest,” and a surviving section of first- or second-century C.E. wrestling manual shows how well developed the drills for tactics and counter tactics were.
• To gain a fall, the Greek wrestler had to take his opponent down, making the man’s back or shoulders touch the ground or stretching him out prone. Three falls were necessary to win a
contest. Not every fall was clear. Greek literature sometimes refers to disputes over whether a fall occurred. The tactics depicted in Greek art suggest that very forceful holds and throws
were common. Vase paintings and sculpture show headlocks and hip throws, shoulder throws and body lifts, including the reverse body lift that the formidable Russian wrestler Aleksander
Karelin has used with such devastating effect in recent Olympiads. If a fall did not result from a wrestler’s being thrown on his back, action would continue on the ground. Joints could be
forced against their normal range of movement, and sculptures show a variety of arm bars and shoulder locks that would be illegal in modern Olympic wrestling.
• The struggle was likely to be bitter and intense, however sophisticated the tactics. Greek sources are quite clear that choking an opponent into submission, though apparently uncommon,
could result in a legitimate fall. The great British historian of ancient sport E.N. Gardiner (1864-1930) may have written that “Wrestling, at all events in the early days before it was corrupted
by professionalism, was free from all suggestions of that brutality which has often brought discredit on one of the noblest of sports,” but the evidence proves otherwise. A recently
discovered inscription from Olympia records a judges’ decree passed in the late sixth century B.C.E. forbidding wrestlers to break each other’s fingers and empowering the judges to flog
athletes who disobeyed the rule. Nevertheless, Leontiskos of Messene won the Olympic crown in wrestling in both 456 and 452 B.C.E. by using this tactic.
• Click here to download the FREE eBook The Olympic Games: How They All Began or click here to read more about the rigged contract in LiveScience.
• http://www.biblicalarchaeology.org/daily/ancient-cultures/rigged-wrestling-the-ancient-fix-is-
in/?mqsc=E3771870&utm_source=WhatCountsEmail&utm_medium=BHD+Daily%20Newsletter&utm_campaign=E4B428
Rigged Wrestling:
The Ancient Fix Is In (wrestling)
This third-century contract offered
several thousand drachmas for a
wrestler to intentionally lose his match.
Don't squint! The complete article follows after the THE END slide.

55. 1 Corinthians 9:24, Roman Sports,
Games, Reward, Metaphors
• The Apostle Paul used many Roman sports words and metaphors as illustrations;
• NAU 1 Corinthians 9:24 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. 25 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. 26 Therefore I run in such a way, as not without aim; I
box in such a way, as not beating the air; 27 but I discipline my body and make it my
slave, so that, after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified.
• NAU 2 Timothy 4:7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept
the faith; 8 in the future there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the
Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day; and not only to me, but also to
all who have loved His appearing.
• NAU Philippians 3:14 I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God
in Christ Jesus.
• NAU Hebrews 12:1 Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding
us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and
let us run with endurance the race that is set before us,
55

56. MUMMY MASK MAY REVEAL OLDEST
FRAGMENT OF THE GOSPEL OF MARK
JAN 20, 2015
• The Story: A text found on papyrus used on a mummy mask may be the oldest copy of a gospel known to exist—a
fragment of the Gospel of Mark that was written during the first century, before the year AD 90. Until now, the oldest
surviving copies of the gospel texts date to the second century (the years AD 101 to 200).
• The Background: In 2012 Daniel Wallace, a New Testament scholar at Dallas Theological Seminary, mentioned in a public
debate that researchers had found a fragment of the earliest copy of the Gospel of Mark. This weekend, another scholar,
Craig Evans, a professor of New Testament studies at Acadia Divinity College in Wolfville, Nova Scotia, reconfirmed the
existence of the fragment.
• This text was written on a sheet of papyrus that was later reused to create a mask that was worn by a mummy. Although
the mummies of Egyptian pharaohs wore masks made of gold, notes LiveScience, ordinary people had to settle for masks
made out of papyrus (or linen), paint, and glue. Given how expensive papyrus was, people often had to reuse sheets that
already had writing on them.
• Scientists have developed a technique that allows them to remove the text from the mask without harming the ink on
the paper. The gospel fragment is one of hundreds of new texts. "We're recovering ancient documents from the first,
second and third centuries. Not just Christian documents, not just biblical documents, but classical Greek texts, business
papers, various mundane papers, personal letters," Evans told Live Science.
• Evans also told Live Science that the text was dated through a combination of carbon-14 dating, studying the
handwriting on the fragment and studying the other documents found along with the gospel. Because of a nondisclosure
agreement, Evans said he can't say more about the text's date until the papyrus is published later this year.
• Why It Matters: Andreas J. Köstenberger and Justin Taylor have argued that the evidence suggests the exact date of
Jesus crucifixion was April 3, AD 33. A fragment from before AD 80 would establish that the Gospel of Mark had not only
been written within 50 years of Jesus’ death and resurrection, but that it would have already begun to circulate widely.
• “To have a first-century witness to the text of the New Testament is unprecedented,” says Denny Burk. “That a fragment
of Mark was found in Egypt is even more astonishing. That would seem to require that the original was probably penned
decades before.” 56

57. BIBLE IN FIVE
Pastor Dave Kooyers
Valley Bible Fellowship
Box 433
Boonville CA 95415
http://www.slideshare.net/dkooyers
www.ValleyBibleFellowship.org
(707) 895-2325
God bless you as you examine His Word,
Your servant in Christ, 2Cor. 4:5
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there...by every wind of doctrine." They may be downloaded and modified free of charge.
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