The Team Bible: Undefeated Edition

By Fellowship of Christian Athletes

Undefeated is the 2015 FCA camp theme. We serve a God who has never lost. God is holy. God is mighty. He is UNDEFEATED! The FCA Team Bible is made for competitors in team sports on the professional, college, high school, junior high, and youth levels.  Featuring 32 pages of exclusive FCA content, this Bible is full of amazing study tools to help equip, encourage, and empower sports teams to study God’s Word together. Includes: 20 Team Studies focusing on common team sport issues, excerpts from The Starting Line Devotional, a How To Share Your Testimony tool, and the More Than Winning Gospel presentation. - “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ!” - 1 Corinthians 15:57

• Language: English
• Publisher: BH Publishing Group
• Release date: Jun 1, 2015
• ISBN: 9781433607639

Book preview

Christian Standard Bible™

Copyright © 1999, 2000, 2002, 2003, 2009

by Holman Bible Publishers.

The text of the Christian Standard Bible™ may be quoted in any form (written, visual, electronic, or audio) up to and inclusive of one thousand (1,000) verses without the written permission of the Publisher, provided that the verses quoted do not account for more than 50 percent of the work in which they are quoted, and provided that a complete book of the Bible is not quoted. Requests for permission are to be directed to and approved in writing by Holman Bible Publishers, One LifeWay Plaza, Nashville, Tennessee 37234.

When the Christian Standard Bible™ is quoted, one of the following credit lines must appear on the copyright page or title page of the work:

Scripture quotations marked CSB have been taken from the Christian Standard Bible™, Copyright © 1999, 2000, 2002, 2003, 2009 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Christian Standard Bible™ and CSB™ are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers.

Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Christian Standard Bible™, Copyright © 1999, 2000, 2002, 2003, 2009 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Christian Standard Bible™ and CSB™ are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers.

ISBN: 978-1-4336-1695-2

FCA Team Bible material

Copyright © 2015 by Fellowship of Christian Athletes Cover design: Scott Richards of Scott Richards Design

Team Studies Writers:

Nathan Bliss, FCA Campus Director at Syracuse University // Roger D. Lipe, Southern Illinois FCA Representative, Southern Illinois University Football, Women's Basketball, and Baseball Chaplain and Southern Illinois Miners Baseball // Donna Noonan, FCA National Director of Events and Women’s Staff Development // Chris Rich, Pennsylvania State Director of FCA and Hood College Basketball Chaplain // Sarah Roberts, Oklahoma FCA Women’s Director and Team Chaplain for University of Oklahoma Softball // Shea Vailes, FCA Ministry Programs Manager // Matt Yeager, FCA Northwest Ohio Campus Director, coach and chaplain

Printed in China

1 2 3 — 17 16 15

WB

INTRODUCTION TO THE

CHRISTIAN STANDARD BIBLE ™

The Bible is God’s revelation to man. It is the only book that gives us accurate information about God, man’s need, and God’s provision for that need. It provides us with guidance for life and tells us how to receive eternal life. The Bible can do these things because it is God’s inspired Word, inerrant in the original manuscripts.

The Bible describes God’s dealings with the ancient Jewish people and the early Christian church. It tells us about the great gift of God’s Son, Jesus Christ, who fulfilled Jewish prophecies of the Messiah. It tells us about the salvation He accomplished through His death on the cross, His triumph over death in the resurrection, and His promised return to earth. It is the only book that gives us reliable information about the future, about what will happen to us when we die, and about where history is headed.

Bible translation is both a science and an art. It is a bridge that brings God’s Word from the ancient world to the world today. In dependence on God to accomplish this sacred task, Holman Bible Publishers presents the Christian Standard Bible [CSB], a new English translation of God’s Word.

Textual base of the CSB™

The textual base for the CSB New Testament [NT] is the Nestle-Aland Novum Testamentum Graece, 27th edition, and the United Bible Societies’ Greek New Testament, 4th corrected edition. The text for the CSB Old Testament [OT] is the Biblia Hebraica Stuttgartensia, 5th edition. At times, however, the translators have followed an alternative manuscript tradition, disagreeing with the editors of these texts about the original reading.

In a few places in the NT, square brackets indicate texts that the CSB translation team and most biblical scholars today believe were not part of the original text. However, these texts have been retained in brackets in the CSB because of their undeniable antiquity and their value for tradition and the history of NT interpretation in the church. The CSB uses traditional verse divisions found in most Protestant Bibles.

Goals of this translation

The goals of this translation are:

•  to provide English-speaking people across the world with an accurate, readable Bible in contemporary English

•  to equip serious Bible students with an accurate translation for personal study, private devotions, and memorization

•  to give those who love God’s Word a text that has numerous reader helps, is visually attractive on the page, and is appealing when heard

•  to affirm the authority of Scripture as God’s Word and to champion its absolute truth against social or cultural agendas that would compromise its accuracy

The name, Christian Standard Bible™, captures these goals: Holman Bible Publishers presents a new Bible translation, for Christian and English-speaking communities, which will be a standard in Bible translations for years to come.

Why is there a need for another English translation of the Bible?

There are several good reasons why Holman Bible publishers invested its resources in a modern language translation of the Bible:

1. Each generation needs a fresh translation of the Bible in its own language.

The Bible is the world’s most important book, confronting each individual and each culture with issues that affect life, both now and forever. Since each new generation must be introduced to God’s Word in its own language, there will always be a need for new translations such as the Christian Standard Bible. The majority of Bible translations on the market today are revisions of translations from previous generations. The CSB is a new translation for today’s generation.

2. English, one of the world’s greatest languages, is rapidly changing, and Bible translations must keep in step with those changes.

English is the first truly global language in history. It is the language of education, business, medicine, travel, research, and the Internet. More than 1.3 billion people around the world speak or read English as a primary or secondary language. The CSB seeks to serve many of those people with a translation they can easily use and understand.

English is also the world’s most rapidly changing language. The CSB seeks to reflect recent changes in English by using modern punctuation, formatting, and vocabulary, while avoiding slang, regionalisms, or changes made specifically for the sake of political or social agendas. Modern linguistic and semantic advances have been incorporated into the CSB, including modern grammar.

3. Rapid advances in biblical research provide new data for Bible translators.

This has been called the information age, a term that accurately describes the field of biblical research. Never before in history has there been as much information about the Bible as there is today—from archaeological discoveries to analysis of ancient manuscripts to years of study and statistical research on individual Bible books. Translations made as recently as 10 or 20 years ago do not reflect many of these advances in biblical research. The translators have taken into consideration as much of this new data as possible.

4. Advances in computer technology have opened a new door for Bible translation.

The CSB has used computer technology and telecommunications in its creation perhaps more than any Bible translation in history. Electronic mail was used daily and sometimes hourly for communication and transmission of manuscripts. An advanced Bible software program, Accordance®, was used to create and revise the translation at each step in its production. A developmental copy of the translation itself was used within Accordance to facilitate cross-checking during the translation process—something never done before with a Bible translation.

History of the CSB

After several years of preliminary development, Holman Bible Publishers, the oldest Bible publisher in America, assembled an international, interdenominational team of 100 scholars, editors, stylists, and proofreaders, all of whom were committed to biblical inerrancy. Outside consultants and reviewers contributed valuable suggestions from their areas of expertise. An executive team then edited, polished, and reviewed the final manuscripts.

Features found in the CSB

In keeping with a long line of Bible publications, the Christian Standard Bible has retained a number of features found in traditional Bibles:

1. Traditional theological vocabulary (such as justification, sanctification, redemption, etc.) has been retained in the CSB, since such terms have no translation equivalent that adequately communicates their exact meaning.

2. OT passages quoted in the NT are set in boldface type. OT quotes consisting of two or more lines are block indented.

3. Traditional spellings of names and places found in most Bibles have been used to make the CSB compatible with most Bible study tools.

4. Some editions of the CSB will print the words of Christ in red letters to help readers easily locate the spoken words of the Lord Jesus Christ.

5. Nouns and personal pronouns that clearly refer to any person of the Trinity are capitalized.

6. Certain foreign, geographical, cultural, or ancient words are preceded by a superscripted bullet (•Abba) at their first occurrence in each chapter. These words are listed in alphabetical order at the back of the Bible under the heading CSB Bullet Notes.

Commonly Used Abbreviations in the CSB™

IN MOST ATHLETIC CONTESTS A COACH PREPARES A GAME PLAN AHEAD OF TIME. GOD DESIGNED A PLAN FOR OUR LIVES BEFORE THE WORLD BEGAN. GOD IS HOLY AND PERFECT. HE CREATED US TO LOVE HIM, GLORIFY HIM, AND ENJOY HIM FOREVER.

// what is god’s standard? //

The Bible, God’s playbook, states that the standard for being on His team is to:

BE HOLY

Be holy because I am holy.—1 Peter 1:16b

BE PERFECT

Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.—Matthew 5:48

// what is god’s plan? //

God created us to:

LOVE HIM

He said to him, Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.—Matthew 22:37

GLORIFY (HONOR) HIM

Our Lord and God, You are worthy to receive glory and honor and power, because You have created all things, and because of Your will they exist and were created. —Revelation 4:11

ENJOY HIM FOREVER

[Jesus said,] I have come that they may have life and have it in abundance.—John 10:10b

Why is it that we cannot live up to God’s standard of holiness and perfection and fulfill God’s plan for our lives?

BECAUSE OF . . .

// what is sin? //

Sin means missing the mark, falling short of God’s standard. It is not only doing wrong and failing to do what God wants (lying, gossip, losing our temper, lustful thoughts, and so forth), but it is also an attitude of ignoring or rejecting God, which is a result of our sinful nature.

Indeed, I was guilty when I was born.—Psalm 51:5a

// who has sinned? //

For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.—Romans 3:23

// what’s the result of sin? //

SEPARATION FROM GOD

But your iniquities have built barriers between you and your God. —Isaiah 59:2a

DEATH

For the wages of sin is death.—Romans 6:23a

JUDGMENT

Just as it is appointed for people to die once—and after this, judgment. —Hebrews 9:27

This illustration shows that God is holy and we are sinful and separated from Him. Man continually tries to reach God through his own efforts (being good, religious activities, philosophy, and so forth) but, while these can be good things, they all fall short of God’s standard.

All of us have become like something unclean, and all our righteous acts are like a polluted garment. —Isaiah 64:6

THERE IS ONLY ONE WAY TO BRIDGE THIS GAP BETWEEN GOD AND MAN . . .

God provided the only way to be on His team by sending His Son, Jesus Christ, as the holy and perfect substitute to die in our place.

// who is jesus christ? //

HE IS GOD

[Jesus said,] The Father and I are one.—John 10:30

HE IS MAN

The Word [Jesus] was God . . . The Word became flesh and took up residence among us.—John 1:1c,14

// what has jesus done? //

HE DIED AS OUR SUBSTITUTE

God proves His own love for us in that while we were still sinners Christ died for us!—Romans 5:8

HE ROSE FROM THE DEAD

Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that He was buried, that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, and that He appeared to Cephas, then to the Twelve. Then He appeared to over 500 brothers at one time.—1 Corinthians 15:3b–6a

HE IS THE ONLY WAY TO GOD

Jesus told him, I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. –John 14:6

This diagram shows that God has bridged the gap between Himself and man by sending Jesus Christ to die in our place as our substitute. Jesus defeated sin and death and rose from the grave. Yet, it isn’t enough just to know these facts. The following page tells how to become part of God’s team and experience His plan . . .

Knowing a lot about a sport and talking the game doesn’t make you a member of a team. The same is true in becoming a Christian. It takes more than just knowing about Jesus Christ; it requires a total commitment by faith in Him.

// faith is not //

JUST KNOWING THE FACTS

You believe that God is one; you do well. The demons also believe—and they shudder.—James 2:19

JUST AN EMOTIONAL EXPERIENCE

Raising your hand or repeating a prayer is not enough.

// faith is //

REPENTING

Turning to God from sin.

For godly grief produces a repentance not to be regretted and leading to salvation.—2 Corinthians 7:10a

RECEIVING JESUS CHRIST

Trusting in Christ alone for salvation.

But to all who did receive Him, He gave them the right to be children of God, to those who believe in His name.—John 1:12

LOOK AT THE DIAGRAM

On which side do you see yourself? Where would you like to be?

[Jesus said,] I assure you: Anyone who hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life and will not come under judgment but has passed from death to life.—John 5:24

REalize God is holy and perfect; we are sinners and cannot save ourselves.

REcognize who Jesus is and what He’s done as our substitute.

REceive Jesus Christ by faith as Savior and Lord.

But to all who did receive Him, He gave them the right to be children of God, to those who believe in His name.—John 1:12

REspond to Jesus Christ in a life of obedience.

[Jesus said,] If anyone wants to come with me, he must deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow Me.—Luke 9:23

Does God’s plan make sense to you? Are you willing to repent and receive Jesus Christ? If so, express to God your need for Him. Consider the Suggested Prayer of Surrender below. Remember that God is more concerned with your attitude than with the words you say.

SUGGESTED PRAYER OF SURRENDER

Lord Jesus, I need You. I realize I’m a sinner and I can’t save myself. I need Your forgiveness. I believe that You loved me so much that You died on the cross for my sins and rose from the dead. I repent of my sins and put my faith in You as Savior and Lord. Today, I surrender my life. I am all in Jesus. Take control of my life and help me to follow You in obedience. I love you Jesus. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

If you confess with your mouth, Jesus is Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved . . . For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved."—Romans 10:9, 13

If you made a commitment to Christ, or rededicated your life to Christ, FCA wants to know. Please do one of the following so we can help you:

1. Log onto www.morethanwinning.org and record your decision.

2. Contact us at 1-800-289-0909 or [e-mail].

3. Contact your local FCA office.

Humility Wins: Humility Beats Pride Roger Lipe

Introduction:

Take a moment to recall a team that you either played for or against that went undefeated for several weeks of the season. Do you remember how that team seemed to view themselves? How did others see them? Were they proud and arrogant, or were they humble?

Application:

Q: What do you remember about the attitudes of the athletes on the undefeated teams?

Q: On a scale of 1 to 10 (1 = prideful and 10 = humble), how would you rate your team’s attitude?

Q: How do attitudes of pride or humility affect a teammate’s relationship with other teammates?, coaches?, opponents?, officials?, and parents?

Bridge:

Proverbs 18:12 speaks about attitudes of both pride and humility: Before his downfall a man’s heart is proud, but humility comes before honor.

Connection:

Q: Why would a proud heart lead to a team’s downfall?

Q: How could that happen to an undefeated team?

Q: What would be a better attitude for a highly achieving team?

Q: Why would honor come to a team after it demonstrates humility?

Discovery:

Guard your attitude when you compete for or against an undefeated team.Lead your teammates toward wise humility and away from foolish pride. Trust God with the results of each competition and each season. He honors the humble.

Memory Verse:

Pride comes before destruction, and an arrogant spirit before a fall. —Proverbs 16:18

Truth Wins: Truth Beats Lies Roger Lipe

Introduction:

The best relationships are firmly rooted in honesty and in telling each other the truth. Great sports teams are no different. Many undefeated teams are built on strong, truthful relationships between teams and their coaches. Things break down quickly for a team when lies are told or when the truth is withheld among teammates and kept from coaches.

Application:

Q: What happens to your team when someone is less than truthful with teammates or coaches?

Q: How do lies affect the relationships of teammates?

Q: What kinds of lies cause the greatest damage on sports teams?

Q: How does telling the truth help a team avoid such damage?

Bridge:

The Proverbs have timeless wisdom for our teams. Proverbs 12:19 says, Truthful lips endure forever, but a lying tongue, only a moment.

Connection:

Q: Why would truthful speech endure?

Q: What are some lies you’ve heard about your teammates or coaches that only lasted a moment before being proven wrong?

Q: Among your teammates, who consistently tells the truth even when it hurts?

Discovery:

Commit to telling the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15), even when it is difficult for others to hear. Wisely and carefully expose lies and restore the relationships affected by them. Trust God’s promise that truthful speech will endure while lies will blow away like dust.

Memory Verse:

So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed Him, ‘If you continue in My word, you really are My disciples. You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.’—John 8:31–32

Love Wins: Love Beats Fear Roger Lipe

Introduction:

A team that remains undefeated for an extended amount of time not only experiences success on the field, but also develops a strong bond of love for one another. Some people believe that this love is the result of success, but more often than not it’s the love among teammates that actually produces the success.

Application:

Tell about a team you played for that had a strong bond of love.

Q: How would it be to play with a team that was driven by fear?

Q: What things could a team fear?

Q: How is love a better team motivator than fear?

Bridge:

Check out the encouragement the apostle Paul gave to his young friend Timothy in 2 Timothy 1:7: For God has not given us a spirit of fearfulness, but one of power, love, and sound judgment.

Connection:

Q: What happens to a team when it competes in a spirit of fear?

Q: What would it be like to play for a team that plays with power?, love?, and sound judgment?

Q: Which of those three best describes how your team competes?

Discovery:

When fear rises up in you, remember God’s truth from 2 Timothy 1:7. Fear is not from Him. He gives you power for taking appropriate action. He gives you love for your teammates and coaches. He gives you sound judgment for making wise decisions.

Memory Verse:

By this all people will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.—John 13:35

Faith Wins: Faith Beats Doubt Roger Lipe

Introduction:

Undefeated teams are usually characterized by unshakeable confidence in their ability to defeat any opponent. They have no doubt they’ll be victorious! A team that doubts itself usually finds reasons to lose and excuses to perform poorly.

Application:

Q: How do you see your team? Is it full of faith or plagued with doubt?

Q: What factors have built your team’s faith or fueled its doubt?

Q: How can a team feed its faith and quench its doubt?

Bridge:

By reading Mark 4:35–41 we can observe how Jesus and His disciples demonstrated faith and doubt: "On that day, when evening had come, He told them, ‘Let’s cross over to the other side of the sea.’ So they left the crowd and took Him along since He was already in the boat. And other boats were with Him.  A fierce windstorm arose, and the waves were breaking over the boat, so that the boat was already being swamped. But He was in the stern, sleeping on the cushion. So they woke Him up and said to Him, ‘Teacher! Don’t You care that we’re going to die?’

"He got up, rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, ‘Silence! Be still!’ The wind ceased, and there was a great calm. Then He said to them, ‘Why are you fearful? Do you still have no faith?’

And they were terrified and asked one another, ‘Who then is this? Even the wind and the sea obey Him!’

Connection:

Q: What did the disciples do and say that evidenced their doubt and fear?

Q: What were the results of Jesus’ faith overcoming the disciples’ doubts?

Q: How can your team leaders exercise faith in the midst of doubt and fear?

Discovery:

Lead in ways that inspire faith in your teammates. Speak in ways that diminish your teammates’ doubts. Feed your teammates’ minds with faith-building truth, and build their hearts to dispel doubts.

Memory Verse:

Now faith is the reality of what is hoped for, the proof of what is not seen.—Hebrews 11:1

Accountability Nathan Bliss

Introduction:

Sarah and Margo had set their sights on the NCAA Championship in the 10K. The teammates shared their goals and then agreed to work together to achieve them. All season long they pushed each other to new levels of fitness, school records, and a greater faith that God would help them maximize the talents He’d given them. Whenever discouragement or setbacks occurred, the friends prayed for and encouraged one another. In the last race before the NCAAs, the teammates ran side-by-side and both qualified for the NCAA Championships. The girls achieved success by becoming accountability partners, sharing their goals and struggles, and by caring enough to make sure they each took proper steps toward overcoming those struggles to achieve the desired results.

Application:

Name some reasons why sharing goals and struggles with others can be difficult.

Q: What are some ways your team can make it easier for individuals to share areas in which they need help?

Tell about a time when a teammate helped you overcome mistakes or negative behaviors that were costing you a chance to achieve a goal.

Bridge: Great teammates understand the truth found in Ecclesiastes 4:9–10: Two are better than one because they have a good reward for their efforts. For if either falls, his companion can lift him up; but pity the one who falls without another to lift him up.

Connection:

Discuss how your team can benefit from establishing accountable relationships between teammates.

Q: What are some areas in which your teammates can help you strengthen your relationship with Christ?

Discovery:

Be a trustworthy teammate whom others will come to for help in overcoming obstacles and achieving their potential. Ask a teammate to hold you accountable in overcoming personal struggles.

Memory Verse:

Two are better than one because they have a good reward for their efforts.—Ecclesiastes 4:9

Self-Control Chris Rich

Introduction:

As athletes, our emotions sometimes get the best of us. We say things we shouldn’t or retaliate on the court in ways that cause trouble. I’ve heard it said that in sports it’s always the second guy who gets punished—the one who throws the second punch or issues the second shove after a play. Basically, the one who can’t maintain his or her self-control and decides to retaliate. One teammate’s lack of self-control can negatively affect everyone else on the team. Thankfully, though, their ability to control themselves can also rub off on others in a positive way.

Application:

Tell about a time when you lost control of your emotions and it affected your team.

Q: Do you feel like you can control your actions, feelings, and emotions? Why or why not?

Q: What happens to your performance when emotions overtake you?

Bridge: Second Corinthians 10:4–5 says, . . . We demolish arguments and every high minded thing that is raised up against the knowledge of God, taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ. What does it mean to take every thought captive? How can this help you maintain self-control?

Connection:

Q: As a team how must you improve in self-control?

Q: What is your ultimate goal as a team, and how can self-control help you move toward that?

Discovery:

Luke 22 tells about a famous incident in the Garden of Gethsemane when one of Jesus’ disciples lost his self-control and cut off the ear of one of the guards trying to capture Jesus. But Jesus showed the ultimate humility and self-control by not only refusing to retaliate but also showing love to the guard (His opponent) by healing his wounded ear. What a powerful demonstration of God’s character! May we seek to have that kind of self-control and love in every circumstance as we compete for Him today.

Memory Verse:

Now everyone who competes exercises self-control in everything. However, they do it to receive a crown that will fade away, but we a crown that will never fade away.—1 Corinthians 9:25

Influence Nathan Bliss

Introduction:

Influencers. Every team has them. The best teams are led by great ones; the worst teams are usually led by poor ones. Athletes and teams are often at the center of attention of the entire community. That’s one reason we repeatedly tell athletes to use their influence in the right way. It’s a fact: You’re in a position to have an enormous influence on others. But who’s influencing you? In order to be a great influence on others, you must first be influenced by great people. The five people who influence you most can determine the trajectory and direction in which your life is heading.

Application:

Name some reasons athletes are so influential.

Q: How do athletes use their influence positively? Negatively?

Q: Who are the most influential people in your life, and how do they influence you?

Describe a time when you witnessed a teammate use his or her influence to make a positive impact on your team.

Bridge: The apostle Paul was one of the most influential men in history. He was first influenced by Jesus, and then he influenced people like Timothy, who then influenced others himself. Paul’s last letter to Timothy reveals the ripple effect of great influencers: And what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses, commit to faithful men who will be able to teach others also (2 Timothy 2:2).

Connection:

Q: Of the five people who influence you most, how many of them have been greatly influenced by Jesus?

Q: Is your team having a ripple effect in your community? How?

Q: What are some steps your team can take toward becoming a better influence on your school and community?

Discovery:

Choose to surround yourself with positive influences. Spend quality time this week being influenced by God’s Word. Find at least one opportunity to use your influence for God’s glory.

Memory Verse:

A city is built up by the blessing of the upright, but it is torn down by the mouth of the wicked.—Proverbs 11:11

Respect for Opponents Chris Rich

Introduction:

We all know we’re supposed to respect our coaches, our teammates, and ourselves, but we sometimes forget that we must also respect our opponents. A healthy respect for our opponents’ abilities and how hard they’ve worked allows us to perform at our highest potential. Respecting others in the arena of sports shows a humility and love that only comes from a relationship with Jesus and our desire to be more like Him.

Application:

Q: Do you struggle to respect your opponents? Why?

Q: Have you ever felt or been disrespected by another team or athlete? How did it make you feel?

Q: How does respect reflect Christ-like humility and love?

Bridge: First Peter 2:17 (NIV) says, Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor. In respecting everyone we not only show a love for others but also a healthy fear of God. What do you think it takes to be able to respect everyone?

Connection:

Q: Before you can respect your opponents, you must respect yourselves. How can you develop mutual respect among everyone on your team?

Q: How will that help your team compete at its highest level?

Q: What does it look like to show a healthy respect for your opponents as a team? Individually?

Discovery:

Respect for our opponents should drive us to practice and compete hard. If we don’t respect other teams and their abilities, we won’t prepare for the competition. We’ll likely wind up underperforming and losing games we ought to win. In the end, respect starts with love. When we love something or someone because God created them we’ll naturally show them respect. And that kind of attitude will glorify Christ better than any athletic performance ever could.

Memory Verse:

Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.—Romans 12:10 (NIV)

Competitive Drive Roger Lipe

Introduction:

One powerful trait that distinguishes high-achieving teams is their competitive drive. At the core of their approach to sports is the will to train, practice, compete, and win. Think about the best teams you’ve either been part of or have competed against and consider their competitive drives.

Application:

Q: How would you describe the competitive drive of a great team?

Q: Why is competitive drive so important to a team’s success?

Q: Using a scale from 1 to 10 (1 = Let’s just have fun. 10 = We compete in our sleep.), how would you rank your team’s competitive drive? Why?

Bridge: The prophet Elijah had a tremendous competitive drive—so much so that he even challenged 450 pagan prophets to a contest. Read 1 Kings 18:22–24: Then Elijah said to the people, ‘I am the only remaining prophet of the Lord, but Baal’s prophets are 450 men. Let two bulls be given to us. They are to choose one bull for themselves, cut it in pieces, and place it on the wood but not light the fire. I will prepare the other bull and place it on the wood but not light the fire. Then you call on the name of your god, and I will call on the name of Yahweh. The God who answers with fire, He is God.’ All the people answered, ‘That sounds good.’

Connection:

Q: What are some indicators of Elijah’s competitive drive?

Q: Does his competitive drive seem to be a good thing or a bad thing? Why?

Q: How can you and your teammates keep the team’s competitive drive under control?

Discovery:

As you compete, do so with the freedom that comes from a Christ-transformed heart. Keep your team’s competitive drive under control. Compete in a way that both honors God and enables your team to achieve its goals.

Memory Verse:

Now everyone who competes exercises self-control in everything. However, they do it to receive a crown that will fade away, but we a crown that will never fade away.—1 Corinthians 9:25

Overcoming Adversity Chris Rich

Introduction:

When I was a freshman in college I suffered a devastating football injury that forced me to miss a month of the season and lose my chance to be our team’s starting quarterback. I was devastated, but I learned a lot about myself in that time. Six months later one of my childhood best friends passed away. Looking back I now realize that God took football away from me so I’d learn how to handle difficulties. By overcoming adversity in sports, I was better prepared to overcome a major adversity in life.

Application:

Q: When have you overcome adversity in sports?

Q: Have you ever become so consumed with sports that an adversity completely devastated you? What did you learn?

Q: What are some common adversities we face in sports?

Bridge:

When surfer and shark attack survivor Bethany Hamilton tells her story of that now famous attack, she recalls being told by one of the paramedics, God will never leave you nor forsake you (Deuteronomy 31:6). How can this idea help you get through the adversities of life?

Connection:

Q: What adversities does your team have to overcome on a daily basis?

Hebrews 12:2 says that we are to keep our eyes on Jesus, the source and perfecter of our faith, who endured the tremendous adversity of the cross.

Q: How can keeping our eyes on Him in every circumstance help us overcome challenges?

Discovery:

God used my football injury to give me perspective on life. Bethany Hamilton’s faith carried her through the devastating loss of her arm. Scripture says that if we follow Jesus He will make our paths straight. It doesn’t, however, say anything about smooth. There will be bumps in the road. But through these challenging times God teaches us more about ourselves and reminds us that He is always with us.

Memory Verse:

Be strong and courageous; don’t be terrified or afraid of them. For it is the Lord your God who goes with you; He will not leave you nor forsake you. —Deuteronomy 31:6

Discipline Nathan Bliss

Introduction:

In sports today, a coach’s discipline can often be perceived as needless punishment, disdain for the player, or a power trip. While some coaches are guilty of that, most of them discipline because they’re attempting to help their athletes reach their potential. Unfortunately, athletes often reject discipline by ignoring their coach, quitting the team, or transferring schools. Those athletes miss out on essential lessons and never benefit from the knowledge of the coach.

Application:

Q: Why is it important for the coach to have expectations such as, following team rules, learning the playbook, training, and heeding instruction?

Q: When have you seen a teammate benefit from receiving discipline from a coach? How did the way that teammate handled discipline impact you?

Q: What are some reasons why receiving discipline is difficult?

Bridge: God has given us a playbook that provides everything we need to know. Second Timothy 3:16–17 says, All Scripture is inspired by God and is profitable for teaching, for rebuking, for correcting, for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. The question then becomes whether you will reject His playbook or follow the wisdom found in Proverbs 3:11–12: Do not despise the Lord’s instruction, my son, and do not loathe His discipline; for the Lord disciplines the one He loves, just as a father, the son he delights in.

Connection:

Discipline is any form of instruction, training, or correction that helps someone follow expectations in order to achieve the intended result.

Q: How are your coaches and leaders helping with discipline?

Q: How does God’s discipline show that He loves us?

Discovery:

Today, receive discipline in a way that positively affects your team. Ask God to show you ways in which you are rejecting His loving discipline. This week, commit to reading God’s Word as diligently as you would your team’s playbook.

Memory Verse:

Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but one who hates correction is stupid.—Proverbs 12:1

Choosing Friends Sarah Roberts

Introduction:

We live in a world in which we’re constantly connected with our friends through phones, school, social media, etc. And these ongoing connections have a huge impact on our daily lives. John Kuebler once said, Show me your friends, and I will show you your future. For better or worse, our friends greatly influence our decisions and choices. And the decisions and choices we make today will have an impact on our lives tomorrow. We must choose our friends wisely.

Application:

Q: Who are some of your closest friends? Why are they your friends?

Q: What are some qualities in a positive friendship?

Q: What are some qualities in a negative friendship?

Q: How much do your friends’ opinions, values and thoughts influence your own?

Bridge: The Bible gives us wisdom regarding how to choose our friends. Proverbs 13:20 says, The one who walks with the wise will become wise, but a companion of fools will suffer harm. When we choose wise friends, we make wiser choices. When we choose foolish friends, we make more foolish choices.

Connection:

Name a time when you were positively influenced by your friends. Name a time when you were negatively influenced by your friends.

Q: As members of a team, you have the responsibility to hang out with friends who help you make wise decisions, as this benefits you as a group. How can you as a team hold each other accountable in your friendships?

Discovery:

Pray and ask God how you can be a positive influence on your friends. Pray and ask God if there are some friends that are influencing you in a negative way. Pray and ask God to bring friends and/or teammates into your life who will help you make wise choices.

Memory Verse:

No one has greater love than this, that someone would lay down his life for his friends.—John 15:13

Priorities Shea Vailes

Introduction:

In sports, priorities rule. Priorities will dictate your commitment, your passion, your work ethic and ultimately, your effectiveness as an athlete and as a team. What you value determines your priorities. Do you value stats more or your teammates more? Do you value pleasing God more or your coach and parents more? Do you value winning more or personal and team growth more?

Application:

Q: What do you value most in your athletic life?

Name your top three priorities as an athlete. Name the top three priorities as a team.

Bridge: King David, the writer of Psalms, has only one thing as his top priority—to be in a constant relationship with God. Psalm 27:4 says, I have asked one thing from the Lord; it is what I desire: to dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, gazing on the beauty of the Lord and seeking Him in His temple. Being in the continual presence the Lord affected every part of King David’s life. Above all, David valued a relationship with God, and God blessed him for it.

Connection:

Q: What is your one thing?

Q: Does your one thing line up with your top three priorities as an athlete?

Q: Does your one thing line up with your top three priorities as a team?

Discovery:

Reexamine your top priorities in the Application section. Do you need to change anything?

Personally and as a team, commit to helping each other keep a relationship with God at the top of the priority list.

Memory Verse:

Lord, I will seek Your face.—Psalm 27:8b

True Success Chris Rich

Introduction:

What is success according to your team? Is it scoring more points than the other teams? Winning a championship? Getting the most press coverage? These are all things we desire as competitors, but they’re not necessarily how Scripture defines success. NFL quarterback Tom Brady, one of the world’s most successful athletes, once said, Why do I have three Super Bowl rings and still think there’s something greater out there for me? . . . There’s got to be something more.’

Application:

Q: How do you define success?

Q: How does God define success?

Bridge: What will it benefit a man if he gains the whole world yet loses his life? Or what will a man give in exchange for his life?—Matthew 16:26

What does it mean to exchange your life for worldly things?

For what things do you exchange your life?

Connection:

Q: According to Scripture, success means becoming more like Jesus in all that we do, including competition. That kind of success involves being the best God created you to be. Do you compare yourself to others or try to be more like Jesus every day?

Q: Does your definition of success line up with God’s definition of success? Why is this so hard?

Q: Success comes through preparation. How can you prepare to be successful in your Christian walk?

Discovery:

Even after I’d achieved everything I wanted as a high school football player—a state championship, all-conference honors, a starting position—I still wasn’t successful. I’d been measuring it all wrong. It wasn’t until college when my best friend and I dove into Scripture and started realizing that earthly success meant nothing in the kingdom of heaven that I finally understood true success. It was this: to seek out, know, and follow His ways and to become more like Jesus in every way. When all else fades and is forgotten—those titles, awards and championships—true godly success will last.

Memory Verse:

. . . think about Him in all your ways, and He will guide you on the right paths.—Proverbs 3:6

Glory Sarah Roberts

Introduction:

Herb Brooks, coach of the 1980 U.S. Olympic Hockey team, had the difficult task of trying to get a group of college athletes to work together so that they could compete against professionals. The movie Miracle, which portrays their journey, shows ways in which the group has trouble putting their personal agendas aside for the team. During one of the grueling practices, coach Brooks repeatedly asks the question, Who do you play for? Each athlete names his personal college, and they run and run and run some more. Finally, one yells out, I play for the United States of America! And the running stops.

There will come a time when God will ask you, Who do you play for? What will you answer? Your team? Yourself? God? Who gets the glory?

Application:

Q: Name some professional athletes who know how to spread the glory around?

Q: What have you noticed about athletes who play for their own glory?

Q: How does it affect a team when athletes compete for themselves?

Bridge: In John 5:44 Jesus asks a hard question: How can you believe? While accepting glory from one another, you don’t seek the glory that comes from the only God. We all can get caught up in trying to earn the praise of others, but God says that as believers our praise and glory should be from Him and for Him only.

Connection:

Q: What does it mean to seek glory from one another? In what ways do you do that?

Q: What’s the hardest part about playing for God’s glory?

Name a time in which you felt like you played for God and God alone.

Q: How did that feel?

Discovery:

Being totally honest write down who you’ve been playing for in your sport (coach, parents, self, scouts, etc.). How can you give God the glory this year? Create and write down your own mission statement as a Christian athlete.

Memory Verse:

Whatever you do, do it enthusiastically, as something done for the Lord and not for men.—Colossians 3:23

Excellence Donna Noonan

Introduction:

One of the major goals of any athlete is to improve performance and to be excellent in every phase of the game. Pursuing excellence is a great goal if it is done with the right standard and motivation. If the standard is too low, we become arrogant; if it’s too high, we can become discouraged. If excellence is purely focused on personal goals at the expense of team goals, team unity will suffer. Excellence is more than just winning a game; it is giving your best with the right motivation in all circumstances.

Application:

Q: How do you define excellence?

Q: What are the motivating factors of your life?

Share some examples of how you as a team have dealt with great wins.

Q: How have you dealt with losses and adversity?

Bridge: In Colossians 3:23–24, Paul gives a picture of true excellence: Whatever you do, do it enthusiastically, as something done for the Lord, and not for men, knowing that you will receive the reward of an inheritance from the Lord. You serve the Lord Jesus Christ.

Connection:

Q: God is clearly interested in every aspect of your life. How would your habits change if whatever you did, you did it enthusiastically for the Lord?

Q: In what ways do you seek approval from others?

Describe a time where you placed pleasing God ahead of pleasing man.

Q: What does a team competing with excellence look like?

Discovery:

Ask God to show you areas where you are settling for man’s standard of excellence instead of pursuing His standard of excellence. Pursue godly excellence in relationships, schoolwork, practice, and competition. Encourage and challenge one another to excel in competing for the glory of God rather than self.

Memory Verse:

Therefore I, the prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk worthy of the calling you have received.—Ephesians 4:1

Confidence Roger Lipe

Introduction:

In competition we will occasionally find ourselves on either side of a tremendous mismatch in which one team seems far superior to the other. This usually has a dramatic effect on the confidence levels of both teams. Think about your team and its confidence level before a game in which it seemed like you were terribly overmatched.

Application:

Q: What’s the greatest mismatch you’ve ever experienced in competition? Which side were you on: the underdog or the heavy favorite?

Q: How confident were you that you’d be successful?

Q: What was the outcome?

Bridge:

Let’s read about one of history’s greatest mismatches: the underdog, David, versus the overwhelming favorite, Goliath.

When the Philistine started forward to attack him, David ran quickly to the battle line to meet the Philistine. David put his hand in the bag, took out a stone, slung it, and hit the Philistine on his forehead. The stone sank into his forehead, and he fell on his face to the ground. David defeated the Philistine with a sling and a stone. Even though David had no sword, he struck down the Philistine and killed him (1 Samuel 17:48–50).

Connection:

Q: What were David’s weapons?

Q: What can you tell about his attitude based on his actions in competition?

Q: What evidence do we see of David’s confidence?

Discovery:

As you compete today, cast off any fear or intimidation you may feel regarding today’s opponent. Speak confidence into the hearts of your teammates by reminding them of their abilities and the attitudes and skills that have led to past victories. Compete with confidence, sling your stone, and slay the giant.

Memory Verse:

The man who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence indeed is the Lord, is blessed.—Jeremiah 17:7

Leadership and Attitude Sarah Roberts

Introduction:

In the movie Remember the Titans there is a scene in which two football players are arguing about one’s attitude. The conversation ends with this statement: Attitude reflects leadership, Captain. In sports and in life, we have to remember that in order to lead others we have to check ourselves first—our example, our priorities, our attitudes. People will never follow what they don’t see.

Application:

Write down some of the greatest leaders of all time and the qualities that made them great.

Q: What qualities do you want to follow in a leader?

Bridge: In John 13:12–15, the greatest leader of all time showed us a powerful example of leadership: When Jesus had washed their feet and put on His robe, He reclined again and said to them, ‘Do you know what I have done for you? You call Me Teacher and Lord. This is well said, for I am. So if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example that you also should do just as I have done for you.’

Connection:

Q: Great leaders set the example with their own actions. How did Jesus set an example of leadership in this passage?

Q: What kind of attitude did Jesus have about leading His followers?

Q: How would it change the dynamics of your team if everyone led by example in the areas of great attitudes, a willingness to serve one another, and in building each other up?

Discovery:

If attitude reflects leadership, what kind of leader are you? What kind do you want to be? Pray and ask God what you can/should change about your attitude to become a better leader. Write down the leadership qualities you want God to help you develop this year.

Memory Verse:

For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life—a ransom for many.—Mark 10:45

Encouragement Roger Lipe

Introduction:

The best sports teams are the ones in which teammates consistently find ways to get the best out of each other. They know what motivates each of their fellow athletes, and they look for opportunities to encourage, challenge, and refresh their hearts.

Application:

Q: Who refreshes your heart after a long practice? Can you see his or her face in your mind?

Q: Who breathes new life into your heart after a tough loss? What is his or her name?

Q: How do these people encourage you and help you be your best?

Bridge: The apostle Paul had such a person in his life. His name was Philemon, and we see a glimpse of his character in Paul’s letter to him: For I have great joy and encouragement from your love, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you, brother (Philemon 1:7).

Connection:

Q: Paul received great joy and encouragement when his friend refreshed the hearts of others. What do your teammates do that refreshes your heart and encourages you?

Q: What do you do that encourages and refreshes your teammates?

Q: We refresh the hearts of coaches when we show good character. What are some excellent character traits that encourage your coaches?

Q: How can you use your good character to encourage your coaches?

Discovery:

As you compete today, refresh the hearts of your teammates and coaches. Give them your absolute best effort. That will encourage everyone! In this process, everyone gets better, and you will spread joy and encouragement to all those around you.

Memory Verse:

Finally, brothers, rejoice. Become mature, be encouraged, be of the same mind, be at peace, and the God of love and peace will be with you. —2 Corinthians 13:11

Above the Frustration Matt Yeager

Introduction:

In sports, we repeatedly experience situations that lead to frustration. Failures on our part, blown calls by the officials, cheap shots from an opponent or simply bad things going our way. Whatever the cause, our responses to those situations are critical. If we let our frustration control us, we usually wind up making bad decisions. And, in the end, that only makes the situation even worse.

Application:

Describe a time when you or one of your teammates responded in frustration during a game and made a situation worse.

Q: How was the entire team impacted by that demonstration of frustration?

Bridge: In John 14:27, Jesus said, "Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Your heart must not be troubled or fearful."

When tempted to act out in frustration, we have an alternative option: accept God’s peace. His Spirit in us allows us to receive the situation as it is and actively choose a God-honoring response. Through Him, we can actually use the challenges to rise above our circumstances and improve our game with new intensity and focus.

God’s Spirit gives us the power to respond outside of our natural inclinations and enables us to navigate the stormy waters of frustration. That means whenever we’re tempted to respond with aggravation, we can ask Him for help and rise above the frustration.

Connection:

Q: What causes you to be frustrated in sports?

Q: What can you do to remind yourself of God’s peace in those moments?

Q: What benefits will result from rising above your frustration?

Discovery:

Choose to battle against the temptation to act in frustration. Ask God to grant you peace when things go differently than you planned. Trust that God has your best interest in mind when you face challenging circumstances.

Memory Verse:

"A man who does not control his temper is like a city whose wall is broken down."—Proverbs 25:28

Every sport requires players to learn fundamental skills that lay the foundation for excellence. At times, the basics can be unexciting and unglamorous. They can even be difficult to learn. But in any sport, mastering these basics is always the key to success.

1. What three basics have you mastered in your sport or your position?

1.

---

2.

---

3.

---

2. What has motivated you to work on the basics? How has this helped your performance?

---

---

---

---

---

---

Much like fundamental skills in sports, a core set of basics will guide you in living a life focused on Christ. There are three areas of basic training essential to a successful endurance run with God.

// BASIC 1 //

Study God’s Training Manual—the Bible

Each sport has its training manual or training program to develop excellence. For the Christ-follower, the Bible is like a rule book, playbook, and training manual rolled into one. Its inspired words come from the heart and mind of God.

Read 2 Timothy 3:16–17 and Hebrews 4:12.

3. From 2 Timothy 3:16–17, list four benefits of reading and studying the Bible.What are some specific ways these benefits might equip you and impact your life?

1.

---

2.

---

3.

---

4.

---

4. Why do you think Hebrews 4 describes the words of God as living and actively effective? How does the Bible differ from other books?

---

---

---

The Bible has power because it’s God’s words. It contains piercing truth about God, life, who we really are, our mission and destiny, and the condition of our individual hearts. Its message is basically simple and yet deeply powerful. Studying the Bible may feel like studying a complicated playbook. At times, it might seem confusing and overwhelming, but it’s living and active so God can reveal new insights each time you open it.

// BASIC 2 //

Stay in Constant Communication with Your Life Coach—Pray

Success on the field becomes increasingly difficult without a mentor, coach, or trainer to guide us. The same is true in our lives. We need to meet personally with God through direct communication—prayer.

Read Matthew 6:5–15.

5. In Matthew 6, Jesus gives us a model for communicating with God. What attitude should we have when we pray (vv. 5–6)? What should we avoid doing (vv. 7–8)?

---

---

---

---

---

---

6. Rephrase Jesus’ prayer (vv. 9–13) in your own words, noting specific things for which Jesus prayed. How might sincerely praying those things impact your life and your relationships with others?

---

---

---

---

---

---

Prayer is a powerful tool that can change your life and the lives of those around you. Prayer is about sharing your heart with God and allowing Him to speak into your life. Learn to relax and be totally open with God. Learn to slow down long enough to listen for His voice.

// BASIC 3 //

Lock Arms with a Winning Team—Find a Church

As athletes, we must depend on the support of others to reach our competitive goals. A church is a supportive team focused on serving God. From the beginning, God has always put people together with different talents, abilities, life experiences, and strengths. It is also important to link up with Christian friends from other churches and Christian organizations.

Read 1 Corinthians 12:12–31.

7. What does Paul tell us about the importance of teamwork in the church (vv. 12–20)?

---

8. What attitudes should we exhibit to others in the church (vv. 21–26)? How can this build up unity and make the church more effective in impacting the world for Christ?

---

---

Keep a daily routine of prayer and Bible reading just like you follow a basic training schedule in your athletic life.

9. How will taking time to talk with God and read the Bible each day make you a better athlete?, teammate?, student?, friend?, son or daughter?, brother or sister?

A personal testimony is simply sharing what God has done in your life. One of the most effective ways to prepare your testimony is to ask three questions:

1. What was my life like before Christ?

2. How did I meet Christ?

3. How has my life been since accepting Christ?

The key is to share your story.

Tell your story of how you came to know Jesus personally.

Testimony Example:

What was my life like before I met Christ?

I learned some things about God growing up, but I never really understood what it meant to have a personal relationship with Him. My life was basically hopeless.

How did I come to know Christ?

When I was at FCA Camp, I realized that Jesus paid the penalty for my sins when He died on the cross even though He didn’t need to die since He was sinless. He rose from the grave and now offers me forgiveness of my sins and eternal life with Him in heaven. He also offers me abundant life! All I have to do is surrender my life to Him and have faith in what He has already done.

What has my life been like since?

I know what it means to have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, and

it is the best thing that ever happened to me. My life is full of hope now!

Now, you try it. Work through the three key parts below, write your testimony in your own words, and practice sharing it. Yours might be long and exciting or short and sweet. It is important to focus on