Holiness in Freedom: The Gospel

Warm Up:

Have you ever won a race, tournament, or contest? Tell us about it! In what areas are you most competitive? (sports, cards, board games, etc.)

Some card games require partners or teams. Tennis can be singles or doubles matches. Do you like to “go it alone,” or would you rather have a partner when competing?

Have you ever been part of a championship team? What does it take to become a champion?

Exploring 1 Corinthians 9:1-27

Paul indicates that some in the church at Corinth were judging him. Due to his past (as Saul), he was not always warmly received by the early church. Read Acts 9:19b-30. Why were they afraid of him?

In verses 1-18, Paul addresses questions about his apostleship. In verses 1-3, what evidence does he give in defense? (Reference Galatians 1:13-2:10.)

In verses 7-12a, Paul goes to great lengths to illustrate that those who devote their lives to the preaching of the gospel are worthy of support. What illustrations does he use to prove his point?

In verses 19-23, what is Paul willing to do to reach others for Christ? Does his zeal inspire or intimidate you? Who is someone who has inspired you to run the race well?

Application:

Read verses 24-27. Share at least three disciplines you could further develop as you run the race marked out for you.

Consider asking someone in your group to hold you accountable to developing these disciplines.

Think:

See "The Race" on the following pages in the book.

Prayer:

List one or two prayer concerns you can share with your group.