An imperishable crown

I started this lesson on “Given Eternal Life” with the idea of a payday. In addition to eternal life, we also will receive “a crown that will last forever” according to 1Corinthians 9:24-27. That is, if we mature spiritually and “victoriously run the race of life” as Chuck Swindoll phrases it in Improving Your Serve (pg. 205), we are rewarded with an imperishable crown.

In the terminology of the lesson passage: Romans 6:15-23, Paul says in verse 1Corinthians 9:26, that he makes his body his “slave.” Why? So he won’t be disqualified for the prize (an imperishable crown). Ask members to share what tips have helped them personally mature spiritually.

On page 189 of the above book, Swindoll offers two ideas to remember. (1) Know that not one thing happens to us, which has not been filtered thru God’s hands, and (2) everything we endure further prepares us to serve others. A personal tip I offer is to remind myself who I am in Christ, which has helped me grow on several occasions. I experienced real growth after the pain of suffering. Feedback made the difference. [note: if you have some feedback regarding this site, please share it as a comment. Thanks!].