The shoe wars between Nike and Reebok exploded when Michael Jordan balked at putting on the official United States Olympic Committee awards ceremony uniform in 1992. It featured a Reebok patch on the right shoulder. Jordan was making millions from his contract with Nike, so he opposed the rival brand. He had been saying for weeks before the ceremony that he wouldn’t put on the Reebok uniform.

Eventually, Jordan put on the uniform but carried an American flag over his right shoulder so the Reebok patch wouldn’t be visible during the national anthem. He even recruited several members of the Dream Team, Charles Barkley and Magic Johnson, to join him.

Romans 13 – Visible Faith

In Romans 13, Paul ends the chapter with the idea of “putting on” something, such as Christ (Gal. 3:27), “the new self” (Eph. 4:24). In sports, either shoes, jerseys, or jackets are part of an athlete’s identity, signifying their team or sponsor. To “put on” something is to believe a particular way and then act accordingly. What we “put on” displays our true identity in Christ, reminding us of who we are and the example we set on the court or field.

The Kingdom Coach and Athlete put on Christ by following Him in discipleship, letting their lives be conformed to the image of Jesus (Romans 8:29). They are clothed in Christ, so that others see Him, not them.

Bible Memory Verse – “Do not be wise in your own mind. Never paying back evil for evil to anyone, respecting what is good in the sight of all men, if possible, so far as it depends on you, being at peace with all men.” Romans 12:16b-18 (LSB)

Click HERE for the Kingdom Sports Minute Grow in Christ.

Our featured book this week is the book of James (The Faith-Fueled Coach) by Bryan McKenzie. This is a 12-week study for coaches who want to put their faith into action. 

Click HERE to review.

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