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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>1 Corinthians 9:26 Therefore I do not run aimlessly; I do not fight like I am beating the air.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/1_corinthians/9-26.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/1/46_1Co_09_26.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="1 Corinthians 9:26 - Run Your Race to Win" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="Therefore I do not run aimlessly; I do not fight like I am beating the air." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/1_corinthians/9-26.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/1_corinthians/9-26.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/1_corinthians/">1 Corinthians</a> > <a href="/1_corinthians/9.htm">Chapter 9</a> > Verse 26</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad6.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/1_corinthians/9-25.htm" title="1 Corinthians 9:25">◄</a> 1 Corinthians 9:26 <a href="/1_corinthians/9-27.htm" title="1 Corinthians 9:27">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv"><b>Verse</b><a href="/bsb/1_corinthians/9.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><span class="versiontext"><a href="/niv/1_corinthians/9.htm">New International Version</a></span><br />Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/1_corinthians/9.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />So I run with purpose in every step. I am not just shadowboxing.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/1_corinthians/9.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/1_corinthians/9.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />Therefore I do not run aimlessly; I do not fight like I am beating the air.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/blb/1_corinthians/9.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a></span><br />Therefore I run thus, not as uncertainly; I fight thus, not as beating <i>the</i> air.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/1_corinthians/9.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/1_corinthians/9.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as <i>one who</i> beats the air.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/1_corinthians/9.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />Therefore I run in such a way as not <i>to run</i> aimlessly; I box in such a way, as to avoid hitting air;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/1_corinthians/9.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />Therefore I run in such a way, as not without aim; I box in such a way, as not beating the air;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/1_corinthians/9.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />Therefore I run in such a way, as not without aim; I box in such a way, as not beating the air;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/1_corinthians/9.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />Therefore I run in such a way, as not without aim; I box in such a way, as not beating the air;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/1_corinthians/9.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />Therefore I do not run without a definite goal; I do not flail around like one beating the air [just shadow boxing].<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/1_corinthians/9.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />So I do not run like one who runs aimlessly or box like one beating the air.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/1_corinthians/9.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />Therefore I do not run like one who runs aimlessly or box like one beating the air. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/1_corinthians/9.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />I therefore so run, as not uncertainly; so fight I, as not beating the air:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/1_corinthians/9.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />I don't run without a goal. And I don't box by beating my fists in the air. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/1_corinthians/9.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />I therefore so run, as not uncertainly; so fight I, as not beating the air:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/1_corinthians/9.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />So I run-but not without a clear goal ahead of me. So I box-but not as if I were just shadow boxing.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/1_corinthians/9.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />That is why I run straight for the finish line; that is why I am like a boxer who does not waste his punches. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/1_corinthians/9.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />That is the way I run, with a clear goal in mind. That is the way I fight, not like someone shadow boxing. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/1_corinthians/9.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />Therefore I do not run aimlessly; I do not fight like I am beating the air.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/1_corinthians/9.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />So I do not run uncertainly or box like one who hits only air.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/1_corinthians/9.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />I therefore run like that, as not uncertainly. I fight like that, as not beating the air,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/1_corinthians/9.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so I fight, not as one that beateth the air:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wey/1_corinthians/9.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a></span><br />That is how I run, not being in any doubt as to my goal. I am a boxer who does not inflict blows on the air,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/1_corinthians/9.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />I therefore run like that, not aimlessly. I fight like that, not beating the air, <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/1_corinthians/9.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />I, therefore, thus run, not as uncertainly, thus I fight, as not beating air;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/blb/1_corinthians/9.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a></span><br />Therefore I run thus, not as uncertainly; I fight thus, not as beating <i>the</i> air.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/1_corinthians/9.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> I, therefore, thus run, not as uncertainly, thus I fight, as not beating air;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/1_corinthians/9.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />I therefore so run, as not uncertainly; so practise I pugilism, as not laying stripes upon air:<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/1_corinthians/9.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />I therefore so run, not as at an uncertainty: I so fight, not as one beating the air: <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/1_corinthians/9.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br />And so I run, but not with uncertainty. And so I fight, but not by flailing in the air.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/1_corinthians/9.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />Thus I do not run aimlessly; I do not fight as if I were shadowboxing.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/1_corinthians/9.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />So I do not run aimlessly, nor do I box as though beating the air;<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/1_corinthians/9.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />I therefore so run, not for something that is uncertain; and I so fight, not as one who beats the air:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/aramaic-plain-english/1_corinthians/9.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a></span><br />I run therefore in this way, not as if for something unknown, and so I contend, not as one who fights the air,<div class="vheading2"><b>NT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/anderson/1_corinthians/9.htm">Anderson New Testament</a></span><br />I, therefore, so run, not as with uncertainty; I so aim my blows, not as one that beats the air;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/godbey/1_corinthians/9.htm">Godbey New Testament</a></span><br />I therefore so run, not as uncertainly, do I thus fight not as beating the air:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/haweis/1_corinthians/9.htm">Haweis New Testament</a></span><br />I therefore so run not as uncertainly; so do I exercise with my fists, not as striking the air:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/mace/1_corinthians/9.htm">Mace New Testament</a></span><br />I therefore so run, not as one that is distanc'd: I fight, but not with the air.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wey/1_corinthians/9.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a></span><br />That is how I run, not being in any doubt as to my goal. I am a boxer who does not inflict blows on the air,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/worrell/1_corinthians/9.htm">Worrell New Testament</a></span><br />I, therefore, so run, as not uncertainly I so fight, as not beating the air.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/worsley/1_corinthians/9.htm">Worsley New Testament</a></span><br />I therefore so run, not as unobserved: I so fight, not as one that beateth the air:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/1_corinthians/9-26.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></span></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv"><b>Audio Bible</b></div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/g-wZWoK_LZU?start=1922" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><div class="vheadingv"><b>Context</b></div><span class="hdg"><a href="/bsb/1_corinthians/9.htm">Run Your Race to Win</a></span><br>…<span class="reftext">25</span>Everyone who competes in the games trains with strict discipline. They do it for a crown that is perishable, but we do it for a crown that is imperishable. <span class="reftext">26</span><span class="highl"><a href="/greek/5106.htm" title="5106: toinyn (Conj) -- Indeed now, therefore, accordingly, well then. From toi and nun; truly now, i.e. Accordingly.">Therefore</a> <a href="/greek/1473.htm" title="1473: egō (PPro-N1S) -- I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.">I</a> <a href="/greek/5143.htm" title="5143: trechō (V-PIA-1S) -- Apparently a primary verb; which uses dremo drem'-o as alternate in certain tenses; to run or walk hastily.">do not run</a> <a href="/greek/3756.htm" title="3756: ouk (Adv) -- No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not."></a> <a href="/greek/3779.htm" title="3779: houtōs (Adv) -- Thus, so, in this manner. Or (referring to what precedes or follows)."></a> <a href="/greek/5613.htm" title="5613: hōs (Adv) -- Probably adverb of comparative from hos; which how, i.e. In that manner."></a> <a href="/greek/84.htm" title="84: adēlōs (Adv) -- Out of sight, obscurely, inconspicuously, uncertainly, without certain aim. Adverb from adelos; uncertainly.">aimlessly;</a> <a href="/greek/4438.htm" title="4438: pykteuō (V-PIA-1S) -- To box, be a boxer. From a derivative of the same as pugme; to box, i.e. Contend at the games.">I do not fight</a> <a href="/greek/3756.htm" title="3756: ouk (Adv) -- No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not."></a> <a href="/greek/3779.htm" title="3779: houtōs (Adv) -- Thus, so, in this manner. Or (referring to what precedes or follows).">like</a> <a href="/greek/5613.htm" title="5613: hōs (Adv) -- Probably adverb of comparative from hos; which how, i.e. In that manner."></a> <a href="/greek/1194.htm" title="1194: derōn (V-PPA-NMS) -- To flay, flog, scourge, beat. A primary verb; properly, to flay, i.e. to scourge, or to thrash.">I am beating</a> <a href="/greek/109.htm" title="109: aera (N-AMS) -- Air, the lower air we breathe. From aemi; air.">the air.</a> </span> <span class="reftext">27</span>No, I discipline my body and make it my slave, so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><span class="crossverse"><a href="/philippians/3-14.htm">Philippians 3:14</a></span><br />I press on toward the goal to win the prize of God’s heavenly calling in Christ Jesus.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/hebrews/12-1.htm">Hebrews 12:1-2</a></span><br />Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off every encumbrance and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with endurance the race set out for us. / Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_timothy/4-7.htm">2 Timothy 4:7-8</a></span><br />I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. / From now on 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 to all who crave His appearing.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/galatians/2-2.htm">Galatians 2:2</a></span><br />I went in response to a revelation and set before them the gospel that I preach among the Gentiles. But I spoke privately to those recognized as leaders, for fear that I was running or had already run in vain.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_timothy/2-5.htm">2 Timothy 2:5</a></span><br />Likewise, a competitor does not receive the crown unless he competes according to the rules.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_timothy/6-12.htm">1 Timothy 6:12</a></span><br />Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made the good confession before many witnesses.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_peter/5-8.htm">1 Peter 5:8</a></span><br />Be sober-minded and alert. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/ephesians/6-12.htm">Ephesians 6:12</a></span><br />For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this world’s darkness, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/romans/15-20.htm">Romans 15:20</a></span><br />In this way I have aspired to preach the gospel where Christ was not known, so that I would not be building on someone else’s foundation.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/colossians/1-29.htm">Colossians 1:29</a></span><br />To this end I also labor, striving with all His energy working powerfully within me.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/isaiah/40-31.htm">Isaiah 40:31</a></span><br />But those who wait upon the LORD will renew their strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not faint.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/4-25.htm">Proverbs 4:25-27</a></span><br />Let your eyes look forward; fix your gaze straight ahead. / Make a level path for your feet, and all your ways will be sure. / Do not swerve to the right or to the left; turn your feet away from evil.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/119-32.htm">Psalm 119:32</a></span><br />I run in the path of Your commandments, for You will enlarge my heart.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/isaiah/55-2.htm">Isaiah 55:2</a></span><br />Why spend money on that which is not bread, and your labor on that which does not satisfy? Listen carefully to Me, and eat what is good, and your soul will delight in the richest of foods.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/ecclesiastes/9-11.htm">Ecclesiastes 9:11</a></span><br />I saw something else under the sun: The race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong; neither is the bread to the wise, nor the wealth to the intelligent, nor the favor to the skillful. For time and chance happen to all.</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beats the air:</p><p class="hdg">not.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/2_corinthians/5-1.htm">2 Corinthians 5:1,8</a></b></br> For we know that if our earthly house of <i>this</i> tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens… </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/philippians/1-21.htm">Philippians 1:21</a></b></br> For to me to live <i>is</i> Christ, and to die <i>is</i> gain.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/2_timothy/1-12.htm">2 Timothy 1:12</a></b></br> For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day.</p><p class="hdg">so.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/matthew/11-12.htm">Matthew 11:12</a></b></br> And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/luke/13-24.htm">Luke 13:24</a></b></br> Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/ephesians/6-12.htm">Ephesians 6:12</a></b></br> For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high <i>places</i>.</p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/1_corinthians/3-8.htm">Aim</a> <a href="/joel/1-18.htm">Aimlessly</a> <a href="/acts/22-23.htm">Air</a> <a href="/daniel/2-40.htm">Beateth</a> <a href="/acts/21-32.htm">Beating</a> <a href="/acts/23-3.htm">Blows</a> <a href="/john/13-29.htm">Box</a> <a href="/2_chronicles/32-6.htm">Combat</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/9-10.htm">Doubt</a> <a href="/acts/23-9.htm">Fight</a> <a href="/romans/13-13.htm">Fighting</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/9-16.htm">Gives</a> <a href="/luke/13-32.htm">Goal</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/6-8.htm">Inflict</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/9-24.htm">Run</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/9-24.htm">Running</a> <a href="/isaiah/24-20.htm">Uncertainly</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/9-24.htm">Way</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/1_corinthians/14-1.htm">Aim</a> <a href="/exodus/14-3.htm">Aimlessly</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/14-9.htm">Air</a> <a href="/ruth/2-17.htm">Beateth</a> <a href="/1_peter/2-20.htm">Beating</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-5.htm">Blows</a> <a href="/1_samuel/6-8.htm">Box</a> <a href="/colossians/2-1.htm">Combat</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/11-19.htm">Doubt</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/14-8.htm">Fight</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/15-32.htm">Fighting</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/10-27.htm">Gives</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/5-9.htm">Goal</a> <a href="/revelation/9-19.htm">Inflict</a> <a href="/galatians/2-2.htm">Run</a> <a href="/galatians/2-2.htm">Running</a> <a href="/isaiah/24-20.htm">Uncertainly</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/10-8.htm">Way</a><div class="vheading2">1 Corinthians 9</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/1_corinthians/9-1.htm">He shows his liberty;</a></span><br><span class="reftext">7. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/1_corinthians/9-7.htm">and that the minister ought to receive a living by the Gospel;</a></span><br><span class="reftext">15. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/1_corinthians/9-15.htm">yet that himself has of his own accord abstained,</a></span><br><span class="reftext">18. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/1_corinthians/9-18.htm">to be neither chargeable unto them,</a></span><br><span class="reftext">22. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/1_corinthians/9-22.htm">nor offensive unto any, in matters indifferent.</a></span><br><span class="reftext">24. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/1_corinthians/9-24.htm">Our life is like unto a race.</a></span><br></div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div><br /><br /> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> <br /><br /> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/1_corinthians/9.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/1_corinthians/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/1_corinthians/9.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div><b>Therefore I do not run aimlessly;</b><br>In this phrase, Paul uses the metaphor of a race to describe the Christian life. The imagery of running was familiar to the Corinthians, as the Isthmian Games, similar to the Olympics, were held near Corinth. Athletes trained rigorously with a clear goal in mind: to win the prize. Paul emphasizes purposeful living, contrasting it with aimlessness. This reflects the broader biblical theme of living with intention and direction, as seen in <a href="/hebrews/12.htm">Hebrews 12:1-2</a>, where believers are encouraged to run with perseverance the race marked out for them, fixing their eyes on Jesus. The word "therefore" connects this statement to the preceding verses, where Paul discusses self-discipline and the need to bring his body under control for the sake of the gospel. This highlights the importance of spiritual discipline and focus in the Christian journey.<p><b>I do not fight like I am beating the air.</b><br>Here, Paul shifts to the metaphor of a boxer, another athletic image familiar to his audience. "Beating the air" suggests futile or ineffective effort, akin to shadowboxing without an opponent. This imagery underscores the need for purposeful action in spiritual warfare, as described in <a href="/ephesians/6-10.htm">Ephesians 6:10-18</a>, where believers are called to put on the full armor of God. The phrase implies that Christian efforts should be directed and effective, not wasted on meaningless endeavors. This also reflects the broader biblical principle of engaging in spiritual battles with intention and strategy, relying on God's strength and guidance. Paul's use of athletic metaphors throughout his letters often points to the discipline, focus, and perseverance required in the Christian life, drawing a parallel to the dedication of athletes in training.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/p/paul_the_apostle.htm">Paul the Apostle</a></b><br>The author of 1 Corinthians, Paul is addressing the church in Corinth, using athletic metaphors to describe the Christian life and ministry.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/c/corinth.htm">Corinth</a></b><br>A major city in ancient Greece known for its wealth and immorality, Corinth was home to the Isthmian Games, which were similar to the Olympics and would have been familiar to Paul's audience.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/i/isthmian_games.htm">Isthmian Games</a></b><br>These games were held near Corinth and included events like running and boxing, which Paul uses as metaphors in this passage.<br><br>4. <b><a href="/topical/c/christian_race.htm">Christian Race</a></b><br>The metaphorical race that believers are called to run with purpose and discipline, reflecting their spiritual journey and mission.<br><br>5. <b><a href="/topical/s/spiritual_warfare.htm">Spiritual Warfare</a></b><br>The metaphor of fighting, not aimlessly, but with purpose, reflects the spiritual battles Christians face.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/p/purposeful_living.htm">Purposeful Living</a></b><br>As Christians, we are called to live with intentionality, not aimlessly. Our actions should reflect our faith and mission.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/s/spiritual_discipline.htm">Spiritual Discipline</a></b><br>Just as athletes train rigorously, believers must cultivate spiritual disciplines such as prayer, Bible study, and fellowship to stay focused and effective.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/f/focus_on_the_goal.htm">Focus on the Goal</a></b><br>Our ultimate goal is to glorify God and advance His kingdom. Keeping this in mind helps us avoid distractions and stay on course.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/e/engage_in_spiritual_warfare.htm">Engage in Spiritual Warfare</a></b><br>Recognize that our battles are not against flesh and blood but spiritual forces. Equip yourself with the armor of God to fight effectively.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/p/perseverance_in_faith.htm">Perseverance in Faith</a></b><br>The Christian journey requires endurance. Stay committed to the race, even when challenges arise, trusting in God's strength.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_1_corinthians_9.htm">Top 10 Lessons from 1 Corinthians 9</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/how_does_pain_foster_spiritual_growth.htm">How can we practice moderation in all things?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/bible's_view_on_sports.htm">What is the Bible's perspective on sports?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_does_the_bible_say_about_sports.htm">What does the Bible say about sports?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/how_to_practice_moderation.htm">How can we practice moderation in all things?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/1_corinthians/9.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(26) <span class= "bld">I therefore so run.</span>--The Apostle appeals to his own conduct as an illustration of the lesson which he is teaching, and by means of it reminds the reader that the whole of this chapter has been a vindication of his own self-denial, and that he has a clear and definite object in view.<p><span class= "bld">So fight I.</span>--The illustration is changed from running to boxing, both being included in the word used in <a href="/1_corinthians/9-25.htm" title="And every man that strives for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.">1Corinthians 9:25</a>, "contending." He has an adversary to contend against, and he strikes him, and does not wildly and impotently strike at him, and so only beat the air.<p><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/1_corinthians/9.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 26.</span> - <span class="cmt_word">Not as uncertainly.</span> My eye is fixed on a definite goal (<a href="/2_timothy/1-12.htm">2 Timothy 1:12</a>). <span class="cmt_word">So fight I</span> (<a href="/romans/7-23.htm">Romans 7:23</a>; <a href="/ephesians/6-12.htm">Ephesians 6:12</a>; <a href="/2_timothy/4-7.htm">2 Timothy 4:7</a>); literally, <span class="accented">so box</span> 1. <span class="cmt_word">Not as one that beateth the air;</span> rather, <span class="accented">as not beating the air.</span> Not what the Greeks called "a shadow battle." I strike forthright blows, not feints, or blows at random. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/1_corinthians/9-26.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a></span><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div><span class="word">Therefore</span><br /><span class="grk">τοίνυν</span> <span class="translit">(toinyn)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunction<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_5106.htm">Strong's 5106: </a> </span><span class="str2">Indeed now, therefore, accordingly, well then. From toi and nun; truly now, i.e. Accordingly.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">I</span><br /><span class="grk">ἐγὼ</span> <span class="translit">(egō)</span><br /><span class="parse">Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Nominative 1st Person Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_1473.htm">Strong's 1473: </a> </span><span class="str2">I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">do not run</span><br /><span class="grk">τρέχω</span> <span class="translit">(trechō)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Present Indicative Active - 1st Person Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_5143.htm">Strong's 5143: </a> </span><span class="str2">Apparently a primary verb; which uses dremo drem'-o as alternate in certain tenses; to run or walk hastily.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">aimlessly;</span><br /><span class="grk">ἀδήλως</span> <span class="translit">(adēlōs)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adverb<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_84.htm">Strong's 84: </a> </span><span class="str2">Out of sight, obscurely, inconspicuously, uncertainly, without certain aim. Adverb from adelos; uncertainly.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">I do not fight</span><br /><span class="grk">πυκτεύω</span> <span class="translit">(pykteuō)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Present Indicative Active - 1st Person Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_4438.htm">Strong's 4438: </a> </span><span class="str2">To box, be a boxer. From a derivative of the same as pugme; to box, i.e. Contend at the games.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">like</span><br /><span class="grk">οὕτως</span> <span class="translit">(houtōs)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adverb<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_3779.htm">Strong's 3779: </a> </span><span class="str2">Thus, so, in this manner. Or (referring to what precedes or follows).</span><br /><br /><span class="word">I am beating</span><br /><span class="grk">δέρων</span> <span class="translit">(derōn)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Present Participle Active - Nominative Masculine Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_1194.htm">Strong's 1194: </a> </span><span class="str2">To flay, flog, scourge, beat. A primary verb; properly, to flay, i.e. to scourge, or to thrash.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">[the] air.</span><br /><span class="grk">ἀέρα</span> <span class="translit">(aera)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_109.htm">Strong's 109: </a> </span><span class="str2">Air, the lower air we breathe. From aemi; 'air'.</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/1_corinthians/9-26.htm">1 Corinthians 9:26 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/1_corinthians/9-26.htm">1 Corinthians 9:26 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/1_corinthians/9-26.htm">1 Corinthians 9:26 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/1_corinthians/9-26.htm">1 Corinthians 9:26 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/1_corinthians/9-26.htm">1 Corinthians 9:26 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/1_corinthians/9-26.htm">1 Corinthians 9:26 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/1_corinthians/9-26.htm">1 Corinthians 9:26 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/1_corinthians/9-26.htm">1 Corinthians 9:26 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/1_corinthians/9-26.htm">1 Corinthians 9:26 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/1_corinthians/9-26.htm">1 Corinthians 9:26 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/1_corinthians/9-26.htm">NT Letters: 1 Corinthians 9:26 I therefore run like that as not (1 Cor. 1C iC 1Cor i cor icor) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/1_corinthians/9-25.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="1 Corinthians 9:25"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="1 Corinthians 9:25" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/1_corinthians/9-27.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="1 Corinthians 9:27"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="1 Corinthians 9:27" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>