Matthew Henry Commentary 1 Corinthians 9:24-27

"Know ye not that they that run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? Even so run; that ye may attain. And every man that striveth in the games exerciseth self-control in all things. Now they [do it] to receive a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible. I therefore so run, as not uncertainly; so fight I, as not beating the air: but I buffet my body, and bring it into bondage: lest by any means, after that I have preached to others, I myself should be rejected." — 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (ASV)

The apostle compares himself to the racers and combatants in the Isthmian games, which were well known to the Corinthians. But in the Christian race, all can run so as to obtain. Therefore, there is the greatest encouragement to persevere with all our strength in this course.

Those who ran in these games were kept to a spare diet. They accustomed themselves to hardships. They practiced the exercises. And those who pursue the interests of their souls must strenuously combat fleshly lusts. The body must not be allowed to rule.

The apostle urges this advice upon the Corinthians. He sets before himself and them the danger of yielding to fleshly desires, pampering the body, and its lusts and appetites.

Holy fear of himself was needed to keep an apostle faithful; how much more is it necessary for our preservation! Let us learn from this humility and caution, and to watch against the dangers that surround us while we are in the body.