Note 16 at 1 Cor. 9:27: No one can function on this planet without a body. It's our "earth suit." It's absolutely essential. However, it also is our biggest liability. If we let our physical senses dictate to us so that we live an indulged lifestyle, the power of God will never be a constant characteristic of our lives. The flesh and the Spirit war against each other so that we can not do the things that we would (Gal. 5:17). We must "keep under" our bodies so the life of God can be manifest in us.

The phrase "keep under" in this verse came from the Greek word "hupopiazo" meaning "to hit under the eye (buffet), i.e. (fig. to tease or annoy (into compliance), subdue (one's passions)." Paul is drawing on the illustration of a boxer that he made in the previous verse. His carnal self is the enemy and he is beating it to death.

The phrase "bring it into subjection" comes from the Greek word "doulagogeo," meaning "to be a slave-driver, i.e. to enslave (fig. subdue)." Paul was a slave driver to his flesh. The spirit man was in control. Why? Because it would have been possible for the apostle Paul to be castaway (see note 17 at this verse) or lose part of his reward.

Jesus taught that prayer and fasting were two things that would break the control of the flesh over us (see note 4 at Mt. 17:21, p. 272).

Note 17 at 1 Cor. 9:27: The English word "castaway" was translated from the Greek word "adokimos" which means, "unapproved, i.e. rejected; by impl. worthless." This same word was translated "reprobate" three times (Rom. 1:28; 2 Tim. 3:8; Ti. 1:16), "reprobates" three times (2 Cor. 13:5-7), and "rejected" once (Heb. 6:8). Paul is speaking of a loss of his salvation (see note 6 at Rom. 1:28, p. 746).