[Greek] βραβεῖον (brabeion), [French] prix de la victoire: prize, heavenly award; Php.3:14, 1Cor.9:24
Background information:
Greek Hellenism: This term was the wand or baton to be given as a prize in the athletic games of the ancient world. The ancient comic Menander states “Many fair offers doth the poor let go, and his prize becomes his purse is low.” Heschyius states “the prize of conflict.” The related Greek verb brabeuo essentially refers to an umpire or referee who moderated and judged the athletic competitions in the ancient games.
New Testament: This term, meaning prize and heavenly reward, is the prize of conflict which a man can win only if he devotes himself (and his resources) to attaining eternal life. The final decision is made by God, like an umpire, who makes the call. Man must integrate his own will with God’s will. This term brabeion is the meeting place of divine and human action. Paul states that athletes strive to win a perishable crown. Christians strive to win an imperishable crown. Heavenly rewards come from seeking God’s will.
Scripture:
“Do you not know that the runners in the stadium all run in the race, but only one wins the prize? Run as to win.” 1 Cor.9:24
The Christian seeks to win the imperishable crown of eternal life.
Conclusion:
Prize, victory
The ancient world greatly held the important value of physical fitness and competition. The garland was also awarded for victory.
Paul ingeniously equates the Christian as an athlete. Yet, the Christian seeks to win the imperishable prize of eternal life. This prize comes when one’s will becomes integrated with God’s will. It makes sense that God is that umpire calling “balls and strikes” in the innings of our lives. Seeking God’s will may yield rewards of Olympic proportions. May you get safely on base and not strike out in life when God says “Play ball!”
“In the game of life, we don’t know all the rules but still we are playing where God is umpiring.” Unknown