Message Notes

(I) Salvation opens up a new realm of seeing life as a race

1.  It is a starting point

2.  It is a critical point

3.  It is a turning point   

(II) The challenging perspective of an outstanding Apostle

“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.” 1 Corinthians 9:24 

1.  Knowledge makes all the difference

2.  Distinguishing the “one” from the “many”

3.  The challenge to run   

(III) A great gameplan on how to run successfully

1.  Running according to the rules

“And also if anyone competes in athletics, he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules.” 2 Timothy 2:5 

2.  Exercising self control as we run

“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.” 1 Corinthians 9:25 

3.  Focusing on winning the prize

“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.” 1 Corinthians 9:25  

(IV) Being encouraged by the encouraging Role Model of Paul

1.  Running with certainty

“Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air.” 1 Corinthians 9:26 

2.  Running to finish the race

“I have finished the race.”  2 Tim 4:7