The Bible never
specifically mentions the Olympic Games athletic competition. However,
there are many allusions to athletics and competition which apply to the
christian life that are found in scripture.
In 1 Corinthians
9:24-27, Paul wrote, "Do you not know that those who run in a race all
run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain
it "{25} "And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all
things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an
imperishable crown. "
{26} "Therefore I run
thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight not as one who beats the air.
"{27} "But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when
I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified " Other
references include Galatians 2:1-2; Psalm 19:1-5; Philippians 2:16; Acts
20:24; Job 9:25; 1 Timothy 4:8.
In Hebrews 12:1-2, the
Bible says, "Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a
cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so
easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set
before us... " Also, in 2 Timothy 4:7-8, Paul wrote, "I have fought the
good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. " {8}
"Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the
Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me
only but also to all who have loved His appearing. "
These references teach
a lesson regarding our faith and our faithfulness to the Lord that is
constantly echoed in scripture. Perhaps the Olympics can serve as a
reminder of the race that matters more than any other.