Chapter 30—Called to Reach a Higher Standard
This chapter is based on the
First Epistle to the Corinthians
.
In the hope of impressing vividly upon the minds of the Corinthian
believers the importance of firm self-control, strict temperance, and
unflagging zeal in the service of Christ, Paul in his letter to them made a
striking comparison between the Christian warfare and the celebrated
foot races held at stated intervals near Corinth. Of all the games
instituted among the Greeks and the Romans, the foot races were the
most ancient and the most highly esteemed. They were witnessed by
kings, nobles, and statesmen. Young men of rank and wealth took part
in them and shrank from no effort or discipline necessary to obtain the
prize.
The contests were governed by strict regulations, from which there
was no appeal. Those who desired their names entered as competi-
tors for the prize had first to undergo a severe preparatory training.
Harmful indulgence of appetite, or any other gratification that would
lower mental or physical vigor, was strictly forbidden. For one to
have any hope of success in these trials of strength and speed, the
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muscles must be strong and supple, and the nerves well under control.
Every movement must be certain, every step swift and unswerving;
the physical powers must reach the highest mark.
As the contestants in the race made their appearance before the
waiting multitude, their names were heralded, and the rules of the
race were distinctly stated. Then they all started together, the fixed
attention of the spectators inspiring them with a determination to win.
The judges were seated near the goal, that they might watch the race
from its beginning to its close and give the prize to the true victor. If a
man reached the goal first by taking an unlawful advantage, he was
not awarded the prize.
In these contests great risks were run. Some never recovered from
the terrible physical strain. It was not unusual for men to fall on the
course, bleeding at the mouth and nose, and sometimes a contestant
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