Bible Study Lessons

Bible Study

Wednesday, May 22, 2013

Reference:  I Corinthians 9:24-27

Topic:  “Mind over Matter”

The concept of “mind over matter” originated in the 1960s and early 70s.  The definition has varied in interpretation.  But the overall thought is that the mind has more power than the body.  If used properly, the mind will help you overcome bodily aliments.  It takes a strong person to endure pain and persecution for the sake of glorifying God. 

(II Tim 2:3 – “Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.”)

Endure - sugkakopatheo (soong-kak-op-ath-eh'-o):

The lesson aim is to encourage believers to stay strong.  More importantly, we must walk the walk as we talk the talk.  We must be clear on what our goals are as runners for

Christ.  Each believer will be held accountable to the LORD for his/her actions.

(Read Luke 16:1-2)

Account – logos (log'-os):

Steward - oikonomeo (oy-kon-om-eh'-o):

Thus, we have the responsibility to condition our hearts and minds for the challenges we will face as disciples of Jesus Christ.  We must use our training to help us in our performance.  Paul presents the same motivation to the church at Rome. (Romans 12:1-2)

Paul uses the example of runners participating in a race to describe the course of action one must take as a soldier for the Lord.  Ultimately, Paul encourages the church to run the race with winning in mind.  Just as athletes must prepare for the race so must the believer.  We must condition ourselves mentally to obtain our incorruptible crown.  We must learn to resist the temptations that come when trying to “do the right thing”.    If we’re going to win this race and fight, we must follow Paul’s example in verse 27:

“I keep under my body”

“Bring it into subjection”

Paul’s concludes his ministerial career on a high note that embodies these instructions to the church: 2 Tim 4:7-8 – “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: 8 Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.”

Paul’s final statement to the church focuses on the misunderstanding of how we struggle to maintain control of our thoughts.