Images of a Christian
By Jerry Batson, Th.D.
Special to The Alabama Baptist
We have previously considered the images of children and soldiers as ways of understanding some distinctions and obligations of being Christians. This week our attention turns to the image of athletes as another window through which to view the Christian life.
In biblical times common athletic events included wrestling, boxing and running. These images are similar in that they suggest individual performance as opposed to team performance. This serves to put us personally under the spotlight of Scripture so we ponder our individual service.
Reference was made last week to 2 Timothy 2:3–4 and its use of the imagery of a soldier. The continuation of this passage introduces the additional image of an athlete, saying, “And also if anyone competes in athletics he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules” (v. 5).
Source of truth
We hold in mind that the Bible employs athletic images as ways to suggest and communicate truth, not as being the source of truth. The Bible is the source of truth; the images are but helpful vehicles that illustrate and communicate it.
The declaration in 2 Timothy 2:5 underscores the necessity for awareness of and obedience to the rules of a sport. As Christians our rulebook is the Bible, regularly read, rightly understood and rigidly obeyed.
Discipline or self-control is essential to a godly life just as it is to a winning athlete. As the apostle Paul declared in 1 Corinthians 9:25–27: “Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath but we an imperishable. So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. But I discipline my body and keep it under control.” God expects disciplined obedience to His commands.
Consistent obedience
Just as winning athletes adhere to a strict diet and regular exercise, so must victorious Christians regularly ingest the word of God as 1 Timothy 4:7 admonishes: “Train yourself for godliness.” Strict training is the hallmark of winners. Consistent obedience is one indication of genuine faith, even as it also brings us assurance of our salvation. An obedient life is essential for growth in likeness to Christ and in service to Him.
As winning runners do so must we do in developing and maintaining our focus, both on personal disciplines and the ultimate goals. Runners who take the prize neither look to the side nor focus on what’s behind. They keep a clear-eyed focus on the finish line.
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