1. What It Means to Be A Christian The Christian is An Athlete

2. 1 Tim. 4:8 Exercise yourself to godliness Bodily exercise of little profit Exercise – means to work at Godliness – an attitude of devotion toward God As an athlete works, so must we

3. 2 Tim. 2:5 Following the rules Rules are important in sports. Rules are important in our faith God word is our rule – 2 Tim. 3:16,17; Rom. 1:16 2 John 9-11, Matt. 7:21- 23, James 2:10

4. 1 Cor. 9:24-27 Run to win, finish the race 2 Tim. 4:7-8 He who competes is temperate – self-control Gal. 5:23, 2 Pet. 1:6

5. 1 Cor. 9:24-27 An imperishable crown James 1:12, Rev. 2:10 1 Peter 5:4 We run with certainty - hope Heb. 6:9-12, 2 Tim. 1:12

6. 1 Cor. 9:24-27 Not just sparring, but actually “competing” cf. Heb. 11:13-16 Discipline my body – 1 John 3:3 Phil. 3:12-14

7. 1 Cor. 9:24-27 Lest I be disqualified – I CAN forfeit my salvation Galatians 5:4 2 Peter 2:20-22

8. Hebrews 12:1-2 Lay aside every weight and the sin that ensnares us – anything that hinders us. Keep your eye on the goal – on Jesus Christ Himself

9. 2 Timothy 4:7-8 The reward – the crown of righteousness We await a home in heaven when this life is over The race is worth it!

10. Have you entered the race? Are you faithfully following the course?