What is the ruling on competitions that rely on sending text messages followed by acceptance and rejection, leading to levels and prizes?

The meaning of the hadith (definition) "There is no sabaq (prize) except in hoof, or hide, or arrow" is that taking money in a competition is permissible only in camel, horse, and arrow races, because these are instruments of war and strength. Scholars have analogized to this everything that has a religious benefit, such as memorizing the Quran and studying religious sciences. Anything other than that, taking money for it is forbidden, and if the competitor pays anything to obtain the prize, it is forbidden gambling. The competition mentioned in the question is forbidden, and one must dispose of any money earned through this method.