The “Thrilla in Manila,” is considered one of the greatest fights in boxing history. Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier’s rubber match was the perfect end to their rivalry. The two Titans showed tremendous heart as they fought at 125 degrees, with Frazier’s right eye nearly shut and Ali himself wanting to quit from the punishing blows by Frazier. No matter what Ali threw at him, he just kept attacking. Finally, Ali buried Frazier with punches that even the bullish Frazier couldn’t withstand after 14 brutal rounds. After winning, Ali said, “The bout was like death. Closest thing to dyin’ that I know of.”

1 Timothy 1 – Fight of the Faith

While boxing history is filled with good fights like the “Thrilla in Manila,” Paul also encourages Timothy to fight the good fight (1 Tim. 18, 19a). However, this is a different kind of fight that requires steadfastness, straightforwardness, and courage, “This charge I entrust to you, Timothy, my child in accordance with prophecies previously made about you, that by you may wage the good warfare” (1:18).

Paul likely wanted to embolden Timothy so he would not fear preaching God’s Word. Later in 1 Timothy, Paul urges him: “Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called about which you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses” (1 Tim. 6:12).

The Kingdom Coach and Athlete wage the good warfare by staying strong in their convictions and carrying out their leader’s commands. They do this by “holding faith and a good conscience” (1 Tim. 19a).