Not long ago, I spoke with a pastor of a very respected church who told me he was ready to instruct his people to abstain from youth sports. He didn’t go so far as to say all sports but was so frustrated with youth sports becoming an idol in the lives of his congregation that he was tempted to ban at least youth sports. Whether he likes it or not, sports are a big part of life for most people. Billions of dollars are spent every year on sporting events and sports equipment.

The Bible uses sports-related analogies positively, so it shouldn’t be too hard to defend a believer who is a fan, plays a few rounds of golf, attends a football game, or plays softball. Christians have enjoyed sports for many years, and often, coaches and athletes have advanced the gospel through their involvement. Especially ministries like the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Athletes In Action.

The real question about sports is not between right and wrong but between good, better, and best. Each fan, player, or coach must determine the line between overindulging and enjoying sports. The theologian John Calvin said it best, “The evil in our desires typically does not lie in what we want, but that we want it too much.” He also said, “The human heart is a perpetual idol factory.”

1 Corinthians 10 – Freedom in Christ

To help Paul’s readers, in chapter 10, he warns the Corinthians that with freedom in Christ comes great responsibility. Here are three basic principles that help equip believers to make wise decisions about sports.

The profit principle (10:23) reminds us in neutral matters; we shouldn’t exercise our freedom at another’s expense. The people principle (1 Cor. 10:24, 33) is similar but places emphasis on making decisions that are more profitable for others. The purpose principle (1 Cor. 10:31) reminds us to do everything in sports for the glory of God.

The Kingdom Coach and Athlete practice 1 Corinthians 10:31. They coach or play sports for the glory of God. Whether it’s practice or competition, they see every choice as an opportunity to do sports God’s way rather than man’s way.

Journaling helps you understand and respond to the Bible. As you journal, use the acronym HEAR to Highlight, Explain, Apply, and Respond to what you have read in the reading plan.

Bible Memory Verse – “Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit. And there are varieties of ministries, and the same Lord. And there are varieties of workings, but the same God who works everything in everyone.” 1 Corinthians 12:4-6

Click HERE for the Kingdom Sports Minute on Purposefulness