Most coaches have heard the phrase, “sports build character.” Many may be surprised to learn that John Wooden disagreed. John Wooden is regarded as one of the greatest coaches of all time in any sport. He won 10 NCAA championships, including 7 in a row over 12 years, and he also achieved an 88-game winning streak. His famous quote is, “Sports don’t build character. They reveal it.” He believed that sports reveal a person’s true character. Once revealed, Wooden would then use sports to “rebuild” what was “revealed.”For example, he valued cooperation (one of the pyramid’s blocks). To “rebuild” cooperation in response to the individualism he saw “revealed” in sports, he refused to allow any player’s number to be retired after they left the school, regardless of their accomplishments during their career.

Exodus 19-20 – Mirror Test

God revealed Himself to Israel through the Ten Commandments. These ten laws are in the Bible and were given to the nation of Israel shortly after their exodus from Egypt. He used Moses, who ascended Mt. Sinai eight times to meet Him and then returned to convey the messages. The Lord wasn’t trying to condemn Israel, but the Law did highlight their (and our) sins against Him.

The Law illustrates how far we have fallen short of meeting God’s expectations for those who have not received Christ. We need a Savior! For believers who are “in Christ,” what purpose does the Law serve? Should we disregard the Law and indulge in revelry? No, that would be “license.” Both views are incorrect. The Law reveals our sin just as a mirror exposes a dirty face. However, a mirror cannot clean our faces any more than the Law can liberate us from sin. The Law cannot remove guilt or justify us.

The Kingdom Coach and Athlete know that the Law is a good civil guide for the government. They see it like a policeman who deserves respect and obedience. They obey the Law out of love for Christ. They understand it is a kind of “family code.” It teaches them how to live holy lives.

Bible Verse: “So now then, if you will indeed listen to My voice and keep My covenant, then you shall be My treasured possession among all the peoples, for all the earth is Mine.” Exodus 19:5 (LSB)