New Testament athletic metaphors

Such metaphors also appear in the writings of contemporary philosophers, such as Epictetus and Philo,[2] drawing on the tradition of the Olympic Games;[3] this may have influenced New Testament use of the imagery.

[8] In 2 Timothy 4:7, Paul writes "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.

"[9] In 1 Corinthians 9:24–26,[10] written to the city that hosted the Isthmian Games,[11] the metaphor is extended from running to other games, such as boxing,[12] to make the point that winning a prize requires discipline, self-control, and coordinated activity.

[16] As with New Testament military metaphors, these metaphors appear in many hymns, such as Fight the Good Fight with All Thy Might,[17] which was sung in the film Chariots of Fire; and "Angel Band",[18] which was sung in the film O Brother, Where Art Thou?.

New Testament athletic metaphors were embraced by advocates of muscular Christianity, both in the Victorian era and in later times.

Ancient Greek race at the Panathenaic Games , illustrated on a Greek vase. Like the Isthmian Games of Corinth , the Panathenaic Games continued into early Christian times. [ 1 ]