“So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other.  Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.” (John 13:34-35 NLT)

Guilty

Evidence is the fundamental concept of determining truth in every situation. To prove something in a court of law, to convince a friend that your story is true, or even to overturn a call on instant replay, evidence is a necessity.

What evidence is there to convince others that you are a Christian? This is especially true if you are involved with a team. If you were put on trial for being a Christian, and only evidence from your time with your team could be submitted, would you be convicted?

Here are some key questions to ask to analyze the evidence:

Have you shown integrity in the way that you have prepared and competed?

Has the purity of your language set you apart from those around you?

Have you made your faith a priority, even over your team?

Have you gone out of your way to help those in need, even if the need was just a pep talk?

What would your teammates say about your character? About Jesus’ role in your life? How would your opponents answer those questions?

Have you been caught sharing the good news of Jesus Christ with those around you? Have you given your testimony to let others see how He has changed your life?

Based on these questions, is there enough evidence to convict you of being a Christian? If not, I would argue that some things need to change. Sports can be an incredible platform for the love of Christ to be shared with many. It is our job to make sure we make the most of this ministry opportunity.

– Jamie Boggs

PHOTO CREDIT: Brandon Giesbrecht