“For while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.” 1 Timothy 4:8
Athletics has been a big part of my life. I grew up playing most sports and had the opportunity to play basketball in high school and college. After college, I was a high school teacher and coach. The things I learned from sports both as a player and coach – teamwork, dedication, motivation, to name a few – still impact my life and help me make decisions as an educational leader.
At most schools, athletics are a part of the curriculum and co-curriculum. Athletic teams bring excitement, unity, and even financial support to schools. Although Christian schools also have athletic teams and compete in inter-varsity competition, Christians schools are guided by a higher calling, Jesus Christ and God’s Word, and should follow God’s leading in all we say and do, and this includes the administration, coaches, students, and parents.
“And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” Colossians 3:17
However, many times Christians and Christian schools follow the world instead of God’s Word. Too many times, unfortunately, Christian schools are enticed and tempted by the world of sports and the golden apple (championships, pride, and recognition), instead of honoring Christ through their athletic competition to the glory of God. The idol of athletics and the love of worldly achievement has tarnished the reputation of many Christian schools as they follow the path of secular schools and the world. There is nothing wrong with good athletic competition, striving to be the best and winning a championship. However, Christian administrators, coaches, and athletes must guard ourselves against pride, idolatry, and the love of the world.
“Do not love the world or the things of the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world – the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and the pride of life – is not from the Father but from the world.” 1 John 2:15-16
I’ve witnessed coaches in some Christian schools cursing their players and referees, breaking school and team rules, being unkind to other coaches and parents, and trying to win at all costs. This is not the case with most of the Christian coaches I know, but every time this happens, the testimony of Christians and Christian schools are lowered in the eyes of others. And we once again hear unbelievers say, “That’s a Christian school!?! What a bunch of hypocrites!” But most importantly, it drags our Lord through the mud and negatively impacts the gospel of Jesus Christ.
On the other hand, I’ve seen how Christian coaches and student-athletes greatly impact the world for Christ. There are few venues in life that attracts young people like athletics. It’s a great way of training the body, learning life skills, being part of a team, and having fun. Other than parents, many young people spend more time with coaches than anyone. Billy Graham once said that a coach could impact mores lives in a year than most can in a lifetime. I believe his statement and see it happening every day.
Although God calls pastors to preach the truth of God’s Word in season and out of season (2 Timothy 4:2), God also calls men and women to teach and coach young people in athletics while sharing the most important thing in life – the good news of Jesus Christ. If you are a Christian and know the truth and power of the gospel of Jesus Christ, please keep Christian teachers, coaches, and schools in your prayers.
“For while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.”
May God bless you with His grace, love, and truth!