Prize
/PRYZ/
Summary
Paul uses athletic imagery of the prize to describe the reward awaiting faithful believers at the culmination of their Christian race.
☩The Christian Race
Drawing from the Greek games familiar to his readers, Paul describes the Christian life as a race for a prize. Athletes exercise self-control in all things to obtain a perishable wreath, but believers run for an imperishable crown. Paul presses toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
Key verses:1 Corinthians 9:24-27Philippians 3:14
☩Crowns of Reward
Scripture mentions several 'crowns' as prizes for faithful service: the crown of righteousness for those who love Christ's appearing, the crown of life for those who endure trials, the unfading crown of glory for faithful shepherds. These rewards await believers at Christ's return.
Key verses:2 Timothy 4:8James 1:121 Peter 5:4Revelation 2:10