Containing the Old and New Testaments. New Living Translation. Fellowship of Christian Athletes TEAM BIBLE

Transcription

1 The Holy Bible Containing the Old and New Testaments New Living Translation Fellowship of Christian Athletes TEAM BIBLE HOLMAN BIBLE PUBLISHERS NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE FCA17_TeamBible.indd 1

2 Visit Tyndale online at and This Bible is an edition of the Holy Bible, New Living Translation. Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright 1996, 2004, 2007, 2013 by Tyndale House Foundation. All rights reserved. The text of the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, may be quoted in any form (written, visual, electronic, or audio) up to and inclusive of five hundred (500) verses without express written permission of the publisher, provided that the verses quoted do not account for more than 25 percent of the work in which they are quoted, and provided that a complete book of the Bible is not quoted. When the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, is quoted, one of the following credit lines must appear on the copyright page or title page of the work: Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright 1996, 2004, 2007, 2013 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois All rights reserved. Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright 1996, 2004, 2007, 2013 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked NLT are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright 1996, 2004, 2007, 2013 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois All rights reserved. When quotations from the NLT text are used in nonsalable media, such as church bulletins, orders of service, newsletters, transparencies, or similar media, a complete copyright notice is not required, but the initials NLT must appear at the end of each quotation. Quotations in excess of five hundred (500) verses or 25 percent of the work, or other permission requests, be approved in writing by Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. Send requests by to: permission@tyndale.com or call , ext Publication of any commentary or other Bible reference work produced for commercial sale that uses the New Living Translation requires written permission for use of the NLT text. This Bible is typeset in the typeface Lucerna, designed by Brian Sooy & Co. exclusively for Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. All rights reserved. TYNDALE, New Living Translation, NLT, the New Living Translation logo, and LeatherLike are registered trademarks of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. The Truth Made Clear and TuTone are trademarks of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. ISBN FCA Team Bible material Copyright 2017 by Fellowship of Christian Athletes Cover design by Scott Richards of Scott Richards Design Printed in USA RRD FCA17_TeamBible.indd 2

3 CONTENTS Welcome to the Bible!... iv A Note to Readers... v More Than Winning / Plan of Salvation...vi FCA Meetings... xi The Old Testament Genesis...3 Exodus Leviticus Numbers Deuteronomy Joshua Judges Ruth Samuel Samuel Kings Kings Chronicles Chronicles Ezra Nehemiah Esther Job Psalms Proverbs Ecclesiastes Song of Songs Isaiah Jeremiah Lamentations Ezekiel Daniel Hosea Joel Amos Obadiah Jonah Micah Nahum Habakkuk Zephaniah Haggai Zechariah Malachi Matthew Mark Luke John Acts Romans Corinthians Corinthians Galatians Ephesians Philippians Colossians Thessalonians Thessalonians Timothy Timothy The New Testament Titus Philemon Hebrews James Peter Peter John John John Jude Revelation NLT Dictionary/ Concordance FCA17_TeamBible.indd 3

4 Welcome to the Bible! GOD S MESSAGE You hold in your hands the most powerful book ever written. Countless lives have been changed by it. Numerous authorities have tried to ban it. Some godless people have burned it. And many Christians have died to preserve it. Why has this book had such a huge impact on people? Because this book, the Bible, is the very word of God. It came from God himself he is the author. Over hundreds of years, he chose certain individuals to write down exactly what he wanted to tell humankind. This process is called inspiration. One of Jesus closest followers, Peter, wrote, Above all, you must realize that no prophecy in Scripture ever came from the prophet s own understanding, or from human initiative. No, those prophets were moved by the Holy Spirit, and they spoke from God (2 Peter 1:20-21). Although these authors wrote in Hebrew or Greek, their words have been carefully translated into many languages. So today we can read God s message in our own language modern English. GOD S MESSAGE FOR TODAY In 2 Timothy 3:16-17, the apostle Paul reminded his student, Timothy, that All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work. This is still true today, even though the Bible was written hundreds of years ago. Its message is timeless, personal, and powerful because it comes from God. Millions have discovered that the Bible speaks to their deepest needs, and people from all over the world turn to God s Word daily for words of comfort, encouragement, hope, inspiration, and guidance. There they find satisfying answers to life s most perplexing questions and difficult problems. The Bible, however, is more than just an answer book for life s problems. It is also made up of exciting adventures, inspiring stories, beautiful poetry, convicting messages, and the hope-giving life story of Jesus Christ. MANY BOOKS, ONE MESSAGE The Bible may look like one book, but it is actually sixty-six books rolled into one. Thirty-nine books make up the Old Testament, and twenty-seven make up the New Testament. God used many authors as many as forty over a time-period of many centuries to write the sixty-six books of the Bible. This makes each book unique. But even though each book has its own style and character, each one contributes to God s life-changing message. What is that message? Through the Bible, God makes it clear that he loves us and has a plan to save us from the destructive power of sin. GOD S MESSAGE FOR YOU What is God s message for you? Read this amazing book carefully, looking for how God worked in the lives of people many years ago. Then look deeper to discover the timeless truths that can be applied to the lives of people today. Look for ways that God s timeless truths apply to you. How does he want your life to change? As God speaks to you through his holy Word, do what you know he wants you to do obey him. James 1:22-25 says, But don t just listen to God s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves. For if you listen to the word and don t obey, it is like glancing at your face in a mirror. You see yourself, walk away, and forget what you look like. But if you look carefully into the perfect law that sets you free, and if you do what it says and don t forget what you heard, then God will bless you for doing it. Welcome to God s life-changing message for you. Welcome to the Bible. iv FCA17_TeamBible.indd 4

5 A NOTE TO READERS The Holy Bible, New Living Translation (NLT), was first published in It quickly became one of the most popular Bible translations in the English-speaking world. While the NLT s influence was rapidly growing, the Bible Translation Committee determined that an additional investment in scholarly review and text refinement could make it even better. So shortly after its initial publication, the committee began an eight-year process with the purpose of increasing the level of the NLT s precision without sacrificing its easy-to-understand quality. This second-generation text was completed in 2004, with minor changes subsequently introduced in 2007 and The goal of any Bible translation is to convey the meaning and content of the ancient Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek texts as accurately as possible to contemporary readers. The challenge for our translators was to create a text that would communicate as clearly and powerfully to today s readers as the original texts did to readers and listeners in the ancient biblical world. The resulting translation is easy to read and understand, while also accurately communicating the meaning and content of the original biblical texts. The NLT is a general-purpose text especially good for study, devotional reading, and reading aloud in worship services. We believe that the New Living Translation which combines the latest biblical scholarship with a clear, dynamic writing style will communicate God s Word powerfully to all who read it. We publish it with the prayer that God will use it to speak his timeless truth to the church and the world in a fresh, new way. The Publishers January 2013 v FCA17_TeamBible.indd 5

6 MORE THAN WINNING: GOD S PLAN 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 You must be holy because I am holy. 1 Peter 1:16b BE PERFECT But you are to be perfect, even as your Father in heaven is perfect. Matthew 5:48 WHAT IS GOD S PLAN? God created us to: LOVE HIM Jesus replied, You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind. Matthew 22:37 GLORIFY (HONOR) HIM You are worthy, O Lord our God, to receive glory and honor and power. For you created all things, and they exist because you created what you pleased. Revelation 4:11 ENJOY HIM FOREVER My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life. 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... vi FCA17_TeamBible.indd 6

7 MORE THAN WINNING: MAN S PROBLEM 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. For I was born a sinner.... Psalm 51:5a WHO HAS SINNED? MORE THAN WINNING For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God s glorious standard. Romans 3:23 WHAT S THE RESULT OF SIN? SEPARATION FROM GOD It s your sins that have cut you off from God. Isaiah 59:2a DEATH For the wages of sin is death. Romans 6:23a JUDGMENT Each person is destined to die once and after that comes 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. We are all infected and impure with sin. When we display our righteous deeds, they are nothing but filthy rags. Isaiah 64:6 THERE IS ONLY ONE WAY TO BRIDGE THIS GAP BETWEEN GOD AND MAN... vii FCA17_TeamBible.indd 7

8 MORE THAN WINNING: GOD S SUBSTITUTE 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 human and made his home among us. John 1:1c,14 WHAT HAS JESUS DONE? HE DIED AS OUR SUBSTITUTE But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. Romans 5:8 HE ROSE FROM THE DEAD Christ died for our sins, just as the Scriptures said. He was buried, and he was raised from the dead on the third day, just as the Scriptures said. He was seen by Peter and then by the Twelve. After that, he was seen by more than 500 of his followers 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 can come 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... viii FCA17_TeamBible.indd 8

9 MORE THAN WINNING: MAN S RESPONSE 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 say you have faith, for you believe that there is one God. Good for you! Even the demons believe this, and they tremble in terror. James 2:19 JUST AN EMOTIONAL EXPERIENCE Raising your hand or repeating a prayer is not enough. MORE THAN WINNING FAITH IS REPENTING Turning to God from sin. For the kind of sorrow God wants us to experience leads us away from sin and results in salvation. 2 Corinthians 7:10a RECEIVING JESUS CHRIST Trusting in Christ alone for salvation. But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God. John 1:12 LOOK AT THE DIAGRAM On which side do you see yourself? Where would you like to be? I tell you the truth, those who listen to my message and believe in God who sent me have eternal life. They will never be condemned for their sins, but they have already passed from death into life. John 5:24 ix FCA17_TeamBible.indd 9

10 MORE THAN WINNING: REPLAY OF GOD S PLAN 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 believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God. John 1:12 Respond to Jesus Christ in a life of obedience. If any of you wants to be my follower, you must turn from your selfish ways, take up your 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 openly declare that 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 and record your decision. 2. Contact us at or fca@fca.org. 3. Contact your local FCA office. x FCA17_TeamBible.indd 10

11 F E L L O W S H I P O F P H I L I P P I A N S 1 : 2 7 C H R I S T I A N A T H L E T E S FCA17_TeamBible.indd 1

12 TEAM STUDIES 1 One Passion By Roger Lipe Introduction: One of the keys to great performance on the field of competition is for a team to be fueled with passion. That passion will drive its work ethic, unify the team, and help the team connect strongly with the coaching staff. A passionate team with a skilled coaching staff and a wise game plan is well-equipped for excellence in competition. 1. Tell us about some plans you and your teammates have made for this season. 2. How well do those plans reflect your passion for this sport? 3. What do you think your coaches have planned for your team this season? 4. How do your coaches and team leaders connect your passions with the game plan? The prophet Jeremiah wrote to a group of people on a long losing streak with these word in chapter 29, verse 11, For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord. They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. 1. Jeremiah lists four items as being in God s plans for these people. List them. 2. How is the Lord s passion for His people reflected in the plans He has for them? 3. When do you have a sense that God may have made plans for you and your team? 4. In what situations do you experience God s passion for you and your teammates? 1. What sort of plans might God have for your team that fit this pattern: For good? Not for disaster? To give you a future? To give you a hope? 2. List some practical ways you can plan as a team to reflect your passion for this sport, for each other, and for God s plans for you. Memory verse: In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me. Jeremiah 29: FCA17_TeamBible.indd 2

13 TEAM STUDIES 2 One Pain By Roger Lipe Introduction: In the course of any season, every team experiences some pain. For some it s simply the pain of a losing streak, for others it s the pain of injury, player suspensions, or broken relationships. It is a great gift to have coaches or teammates who serve to overcome the pain and restore the team. 1. What is one consistently painful part of your life in sports? When do you feel it most intensely? 2. When do you experience pain in your team s relationships? 3. What are some factors that lead to brokenness? Which of these have you dealt with? Envy Poor communication Lies Gossip Racism Off field/court issues 4. Who helps you deal with these pains as they arise in your team? The New Testament book of Romans contains a simple sentence in chapter 5, verse 8 that has great power to overcome the pain of a broken relationship with God. It reads: But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. 1. Our separation from God due to sin (willful rebellion) causes pain for us and for God. 2. Amazingly, Jesus pursues a restored relationship with us, even while we are rebelling against Him. 1. Tell us about when you understood that Christ died to restore your relationship with God? 2. If you are still considering a relationship with Jesus, how will you respond to His demonstration of love for you? 3. How might your team be affected by having more Christ followers in it? 1. Who are the people in your life and in your team that work to restore broken relationships? 2. How do they do it? 3. How can you be similar to Jesus in pursuing people for restored relationships? Memory verse: For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 6:23 TEAM STUDIES 3 FCA17_TeamBible.indd 3

14 TEAM STUDIES 3 One Power By Roger Lipe Introduction: Some teams walk onto the field of competition with a bold confidence in their power and preparation. They are good teams and they know it. They show up ready to compete and confident of a good outcome. Sometimes their opponents and spectators see this as arrogance, but it s often simply a humble expression of the power they possess. 1. Tell us about a time when you felt like your team was unbeatable. 2. What was it about that team that made it so powerful? 3. When do/did you have a sense of this team s power and potential? In preseason Prior to the first game After an important win Entering postseason During practice Other The apostle Paul wrote to his friends in the church at Rome about the confidence they can have in God s power toward them. In Romans 8:31-32 he declared, What shall we say about such wonderful things as these? If God is for us, who can ever be against us? Since he did not spare even his own Son but gave him up for us all, won t he also give us everything else? 1. How did God demonstrate His power through Jesus? 2. Some people will see the sentence, If God is for us, who can ever be against us? as a promise from God that their team will always win. Is it wise or foolish to think that way? Why? 1. How has God demonstrated His transforming power in your life? 2. How does God s power affect the way your team functions? 1. What and who are some gifts God has given your team? 2. List some ways your team can show God s power and love in the way you train, practice, and compete. Memory verse: And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow not even the powers of hell can separate us from God s love. Romans 8:38 4 FCA17_TeamBible.indd 4

15 TEAM STUDIES 4 One Purpose By Roger Lipe Introduction: Some teams seem to be so united in purpose that they compete with freedom, joy, and selfless attitudes. Those teams are also often the most successful. Teams with a strong sense of collective purpose have a profound effect upon those around them: families, spectators, and even the media. 1. Tell us about situations when your team seems to be totally unified. 2. What are some attitudes and actions that help unify your team and what are some that divide you? We can listen in to Jesus prayer for us as we read John 17:20-21: I am praying not only for these disciples but also for all who will ever believe in me through their message. I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one as you are in me, Father, and I am in you. And may they be in us so that the world will believe you sent me. 1. Why would Jesus pray about His team s unity in this moment, just hours before He would be killed? 2. How would the disciples being unified lead to the world believing in Jesus? 1. How could your team being united in purpose have a similar effect upon people around you? 2. What could be some results if your team was to, all be one, just as you and I are one as you are in me, Father, and I am in you, as Jesus prayed? 1. What are some practical ways you can build your team s unity of purpose? 2. To what are you willing to commit in order to build your team s oneness in purpose? Memory verse: I am in them and you are in me. May they experience such perfect unity that the world will know that you sent me and that you love them as much as you love me. John 17:23 TEAM STUDIES 5 FCA17_TeamBible.indd 5

16 TEAM STUDIES 5 Adversity By Roger Lipe Introduction: Every team has to deal with adversity somewhere along the course of its season. It may be in the form of injuries, losses, strained relationships, critical media reports, or even death. How a team deals with adversity is a strong indicator of its character and the quality of its leadership. 1. Tell us about some adversity your team has endured together. 2. How well did your team handle those tough times? Give the team a letter grade: A, B, C, D, or F and explain why that grade. Jesus half-brother, James, wrote about adversity and a valuable promise for those who endure in James 1:12: God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. 1. Why would God bless a person when he or she patiently endures adversity? 2. Tell us about a person you know who wears the crown of life because of how he or she dealt with adversity. 1. What would it look like for a team to patiently endure adverse circumstances like these? (Choose one or two to discuss.) An injury to its best player A long losing streak Firing of the head coach Envious teammates 2. What could be some of the rewards (crown of life) that a team would receive when they patiently endure situations that test their character? 1. What are some adverse situations you can anticipate your team may have to deal with this season? 2. How can you help your team be prepared to patiently endure them? 3. What may be the rewards of having dealt well with adversity? Memory verse: Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing. James 1:2-4 6 FCA17_TeamBible.indd 6

17 TEAM STUDIES 6 Commitment By Chris Rich Introduction: Commitment is one of the lost terms in the sports world. The transfer culture and the club culture that we have fallen into has watered down the term commitment to be only when it is convenient for the athlete. Coaches are not immune to this. 1. Where have you seen a lack of commitment in the world of sports recently? 2. What does commitment mean to you? 3. What are some things that you are committed to? 1. In John 3:16 we see Jesus commitment to us. How committed was Jesus to each one of us? 2. What does it mean to see Jesus commitment to each one of us? 3. Who is someone we see in life that you think is a great sign of commitment? 1. Based on what Jesus did for us, how should we as Christians show our commitment? 2. How is this different from what the world teaches? 3. In what areas of your life do you lack commitment? Often we misunderstand what commitment is. The dictionary defines commitment as the state or quality of being dedicated to a cause. If we as teammates are dedicated to the cause and to one another, we will be great. Memory verse: For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16 TEAM STUDIES 7 FCA17_TeamBible.indd 7

18 TEAM STUDIES 7 Courage By Nathan Bliss Introduction: I believe the #1 issue athletes deal with is fear. Some are afraid to fail. Some are afraid of success because they don t want to do so well that people expect too much from them. Some fear the unknown and the future. Some are afraid of dealing with their past. Some fear they won t be accepted by teammates. Some fear letting down family, friends, and teammates. Some fear the competition. The things you are afraid of are your Goliaths. To defeat Goliath, you need courage. Courage is what allows a person to face difficulty, danger, pain, fear... and still act. 2 Samuel 17 describes how young David defeated the giant, Goliath. As everyone else cowered in fear, David stood. David knew he was made for greatness, and not even a giant was going to stand in his way. David knew who he was, where he came from, and where he was going. But David s confidence wasn t just in himself. 1. What are the Goliaths in your life? What do you fear? 2. Read Psalm 27:1; Romans 8:31; and 2 Timothy 1:7. What is the common message? 3. Discuss who you are (team identity/character), where you came from (history), and where you re going (team goals). The scouting report said there was no way David could win. But his confidence wasn t in the scouting report. He had the greatest advantage in the world David knew he was tight with God and that God was going to help him. That relationship with God took David from shepherd to being the great warrior king of Israel. 1. If God was right by your side all of the time, how would your team act? What would you ever be afraid of? 2. What are some ways your team can focus on God as you courageously face your fears? Think of one or two words or phrases your team can use to remind one another to courageously face your Goliaths. Memory verse: The Lord is my light and salvation so why should I be afraid? The Lord is my fortress, protecting me from danger, so why should I tremble? Psalm 27:1 8 FCA17_TeamBible.indd 8

19 TEAM STUDIES 8 Discipline By Chris Rich Introduction: I can remember being a freshman in college and being challenged by a coach to examine the words that came out of my mouth. He told me that it was a sign of self- discipline. If I couldn t control my tongue, how could he expect me to control my emotions on the field? As I examined my life, I found that if I don t have discipline in one area of my life, it carries over and affects every area of life. I needed this coach s discipline to help me have discipline. 1. Tell about a situation in sports where you had to be disciplined by a coach or teammate. How did it feel? 2. Is there anywhere we see athletes in our society lack discipline? 3. How do some people handle discipline from an outside source? 1. In 1 Corinthians 9:27 we find some very simple and direct language about discipline. How might a lack of discipline disqualify you? 2. Where do you need to train yourself to be more disciplined? 3. Share about somewhere you would like to grow in discipline. 1. How can we hold each other accountable to being disciplined? 2. What are some situations this season that could demand discipline? Think about whom you could ask to hold you accountable to being disciplined. What would be the best way for you to grow in discipline through the help of a teammate or coach? You will grow in all aspects of life if you are more disciplined in the little things. Memory verse: I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. Otherwise, I fear that after preaching to others I myself might be disqualified. 1 Corinthians 9:27 TEAM STUDIES 9 FCA17_TeamBible.indd 9

20 TEAM STUDIES 9 Distractions By Roger Lipe Introduction: Teams that keep a strong focus on their daily practice habits, their values, and their purpose tend to perform better and maintain better relationships. Teams that are distracted break down due to a lack of attention to details, conflicting values, envy, and jealousy. 1. When does your team lose its focus and become distracted? 2. What are some distractions you and your teammates regularly encounter? 3. How does a team put the distraction away and recapture its focus? Some of the apostle Paul s teammates in Philippi were becoming distracted, and he wrote to them about it. His words are recorded in Philippians 4:8: And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. 1. What kind of language does Paul use to address his friends at the beginning of this verse? 2. Why would he refer to them as dear brothers and sisters? 3. Why would he charge them to fix their thoughts on these matters? 1. Share some things in your sport that are reflective of these values: (Choose one or two.) Things that are true Things that are honorable Things that are right Things that are pure Things that are lovely Things that are admirable Things that are excellent Things that are worthy of praise 2. How easy or difficult is it to fix your thoughts on these things? 1. How would you describe your team s mind-set today? 2. What can you do to help your teammates eliminate distractions? 3. What is one value from the list in Philippians 4:8 that you will fix your thoughts on today? Memory verse: We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God s throne. Hebrews 12:2 10 FCA17_TeamBible.indd 10

21 TEAM STUDIES 10 End of a Season By Roger Lipe Introduction: Each season, every team begins with high aspirations and an undefeated record. By the end of the season, memories have been created, relationships have been forged, and dreams have either been crushed or fully realized. While everyone feels the thrilling expectancy of beginning, champions experience the end of a season s rich joy and fulfillment. 1. Which of these is better for your team: the opening day of the season or the post-season tournament? Why? 2. Which group is more important to your team s success: the starting lineup or those on the field/court in the final minutes of a contest? Why? The Old Testament book of wisdom titled, Ecclesiastes, includes this poetic couplet in chapter 7, verse 8: Finishing is better than starting. Patience is better than pride. 1. Why would it be more important to finish well than to start well? 2. Why would the author say, Patience is better than pride? 1. Thinking back over your sporting career, do you have stronger memories of pregame warm-ups or last-second victories? Tell us about some of these memories. 2. Which competitor is more valuable to your team: the patient and consistent player you all trust or the flashy, arrogant, streaky one? Why? 1. How can your team prepare itself to finish well this season? 2. How can your coaches and team leaders help the team value patience more than pride? 3. What might be some results of your team aligning itself with these values? Memory verse: I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. 2 Timothy 4:7 TEAM STUDIES 11 FCA17_TeamBible.indd 11

22 TEAM STUDIES 11 Envy By Roger Lipe Introduction: One of the most lethal viruses to infect a sports team is envy. When teammates begin to envy each other s positions or become jealous of their teammates privileges, the team breaks down quickly. A team infected with envy is seldom able to compete strongly as they are terribly divided and teamwork becomes impossible. 1. What are some things about which players could become jealous of their teammates? Playing time Team gear Equipment Uniform numbers Seats on the bus Leadership positions Locker location Coach favoritism Other things How does such envy affect how a team functions? 3. Tell us about a time when envy or jealousy infected a team with which you competed. 4. How did you and your teammates deal with the team division? The apostle Paul wrote to his friends in the church at Galatia (modern day Turkey) and challenged them about their attitudes. We read this in Galatians 5:26: Let us not become conceited, or provoke one another, or be jealous of one another. 1. Why would Paul warn his friends in Galatia about these attitudes? 2. Which of these attitudes could injure your team? How so? Conceit prideful attitudes Provocation picking fights Jealousy envious of others 1. How can your team guard against becoming conceited? 2. About what sorts of issues could some of your teammates provoke one another? 3. How can each of you help your teammates avoid the trap of becoming envious of others? 1. Who are the key people for safeguarding your team against envy? 2. How will you work together to keep jealousy from infecting your team? 3. If envy does raise its ugly head, how will your team deal with it? Memory verse: A peaceful heart leads to a healthy body; jealousy is like cancer in the bones. Proverbs 14:30 12 FCA17_TeamBible.indd 12

23 TEAM STUDIES 12 Excellence By Chris Rich Introduction: I used to think that excellence meant always winning. I was confused by the verse in Scripture that says,... you are to be perfect, even as your Father in heaven is perfect (Matthew 5:48). I thought that meant I always had to win and that was excellence. As I have grown, I have learned that we glorify God by how we compete. Excellence comes in the process and in how we compete. 1. How do you view excellence in your sport? 2. Is there anywhere as a team that you are sacrificing excellence to cut corners? 1. In Matthew 5:48 you see the command, be perfect, even as your Father in heaven is perfect. 2. What does this mean to be perfect? 3. How does this make you feel? 1. Perfection is a big term. But, in sports, perfection is in the process and in the little things. 2. Share where you feel like you cut corners and need to practice excellence even in the little things. Navy Seals talk about how it is in the little details that they become great. It is the same in sports! In order to be excellent, you must practice excellence in every area of life. In the little things is where excellence is found. Perfection comes through doing everything in the process with excellence, not through cutting corners. As we take care of everything with excellence, the outcome will take care of itself. Memory verse: But you are to be perfect, even as your Father in heaven is perfect. Matthew 5:48 TEAM STUDIES 13 FCA17_TeamBible.indd 13

24 TEAM STUDIES 13 Expectations By Roger Lipe Introduction: Coaches, competitors, and teams all have expectations of themselves, their teammates, and the team as a whole. Often those expectations go unexpressed and that lack of communication leads to frustration and conflicts. Competitors who love Christ Jesus also have expectations of God. 1. Upon what factors do you set your expectations for your team in preseason? 2. How often are your expectations fully met? Always? Never? Sometimes? Explain your answer. 3. How does your team communicate its expectations of each teammate? Micah wrote about expectations in his book of prophecy in chapter 7, verse 7. There we read, As for me, I look to the Lord for help. I wait confidently for God to save me, and my God will certainly hear me. 1. What kinds of crisis can lead a person to look to God for help? 2. For what sorts of situations in life have you called to God to save you? 3. How do you know that God will hear your prayer? 1. For what have you confidently asked God to help your team? 2. How do you pray for your team? 3. How confident are you that God will hear and act in response to your prayer? Why? 1. Make a list of matters for which your team needs to look to God for help. 2. For what will your team confidently pray? 3. How can you grow your confidence in God s ability to hear you and act on your behalf? Memory verse: The hopes of the godly result in happiness, but the expectations of the wicked come to nothing. Proverbs 10:28 14 FCA17_TeamBible.indd 14

25 TEAM STUDIES 14 Influence By Chris Rich Introduction: One of the greatest wrestlers in the world, Jordan Burroughs, has incredible influence. When he walked off the podium after winning a gold medal he asked the question, is this all there is? After asking that question and giving his life to Christ, Burroughs realized the influence he had could make a difference in the lives of younger wrestlers and the wrestling community. 1. Talk about who athletes and coaches influence. 2. What are some examples in sports of good influences? Bad influences? 3. As a whole, where are some places that you could use your influence to impact those around you? 1. There are plenty of influencers in the Bible. Influence can be positive and negative. 2. Who are you influenced by? Is it a positive influence or a negative influence? 3. How can you use your influence in a positive way? 1. Influence can happen on the field and off the field. Jordan Burroughs realized this when he came into a relationship with Christ. 2. What kind of influence do athletes have on the community around them? 3. As you interact with people that you are influencing, are you a positive or negative influence? As Jordan Burroughs wrestles now, he realizes that by wrestling the right way he is influencing those around them. He now uses his platform to share his faith. Who will you influence in a positive way through the way you compete, the words you speak, and how you act? Memory verse: In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father. Matthew 5:16 TEAM STUDIES 15 FCA17_TeamBible.indd 15

26 TEAM STUDIES 15 Integrity By Chris Rich Introduction: A college football coach used to say to us what is done in the dark will always come to the light. An FCA staff member once shared with us that a life of integrity is a life without gaps. When I was growing up, I was one way in church I knew all the answers and was a Sunday school All-Star. But, when it came to sports, I lived a totally different life. I had major gaps in my life. 1. What are some things that as athletes we try to hide from the people around us? 2. How does this affect our everyday living? Do you feel like you have to keep secrets around your teammates and coaches? 1. What does Proverbs 10:9 say about those who walk with integrity? 2. Why would someone with integrity walk safely? 3. What is the alternative if you don t have integrity? 1. If you have no gaps in your life, you have no secrets. Therefore, you can live with freedom. 2. Think about the things in your life that need to be changed to live a life with no gaps. If you feel led, share them with your teammates. Scripture tells us that even though man can only see actions, God sees the heart. If you are striving to please God and compete for Him alone, how does this change your desire to have a life of no gaps, a life of integrity? A life of integrity frees you to compete to your highest potential. Memory verse: People with integrity walk safely, but those who follow crooked paths will be exposed. Proverbs 10:9 16 FCA17_TeamBible.indd 16

27 TEAM STUDIES 16 Leadership By Nathan Bliss Introduction: Statistically, he was among the country s elite. He could play almost every position, but accepted what was best for the team. If Coach asked him to do something, he responded with all-out effort. He encouraged teammates even as he held them accountable to the team s standards. Almost never coming off the court, he was the face of the program the team s leader. But there were two things this leader did that really impressed me. He picked up his teammates messes and, no matter how tired he was, after practice he would play one-on-one with one of the walk-ons or team managers with a smile. 1. What are some actions and characteristics of your teammates that you admire? 2. Name a few reasons why true leadership is more than just talent. 3. Why is it important that leaders put their teammates first? Good leaders inspire others to follow. Great leaders do that and help others develop into leaders. This ensures that the team s mission carries on season after season, year after year. Jesus, the greatest leader and the one we should model, not only inspired others, He taught the disciples how to go into the world to make disciples. Here is the Jesus Model of Leadership: 1. Jesus ministered while the disciples watched, cheered, and learned. (Matthew 4:18-25) 2. Jesus ministered while the disciples helped and learned. (Luke 9:12-17) 3. The disciples ministered while Jesus helped and taught. (Matthew 17:14-21) 4. The disciples ministered while Jesus watched, cheered, and taught them more. (Luke 10:1-24) 5. Jesus handed the ministry to the disciples and said He would always be available to help, cheer, and teach them more. (Matthew 28:18-20) 1. What are some reasons you want to follow Jesus lead? 2. How can your team model true leadership to your school and community? 3. How can your team develop younger teammates into leaders? 1. This week, do the jobs no one else wants to do. 2. Find a way to lead by example. Memory verse: For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many. Matthew 20:28 TEAM STUDIES 17 FCA17_TeamBible.indd 17

28 TEAM STUDIES 17 Serving By Sarah Roberts The great boxer, Muhammad Ali said, Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth. Unfortunately, not all athletes share this opinion when it comes to serving. Too often the image is portrayed that the more talent we have, the more people will serve us instead of using our platform to serve others. From the world s seat, the final level of success is the amount of people willing to serve you. 1. How do you see athletics and serving going together? 2. When have you seen athletes use athletics as a vehicle to be served by others? 3. What can the attitude, Others serve me, do to a team s mentality? Jesus said,... Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first among you must become your slave. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many (Matthew 20:26-27). 1. What does God s Word say about leading and serving? 2. How is Jesus view of serving different than the world s? 3. How would your team be different if it accepted Jesus view of serving instead of the world s? As followers of Christ, we don t view things from the world s seat, but from God s. We see things through the eyes of Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith (Hebrews 12:2). He set the ultimate example of serving by stepping down from the King s throne to walk among us and ultimately die for us. 1. How does Christ s example inspire you? 2. How can you use your platform as an athlete to serve others? Athletes have a unique opportunity to use their influence to serve. By following Jesus example, we show the world of athletics that we are not here to use our gifts to be served, but to serve others. How could your team take this concept of serving others and apply it on and off the court, field, or mat? 18 FCA17_TeamBible.indd 18

29 TEAM STUDIES 18 Success By Roger Lipe Introduction: Sitting in the locker room before the Final Four, he reflected on the moment he had dreamt of since childhood. To his surprise, reaching the Final Four didn t satisfy him like he thought it would. Instead, he found himself thanking God for giving him a season where teammates became like brothers, trials taught him to rely on his faith, and his sport helped him become a better man. In that moment of profound gratitude, he learned the true meaning of success. 1. What are some personal or team goals you reached only to find that the achievement didn t live up to the hype? 2. Discuss some successes of which you are most proud. For most teams, success is measured by the scoreboard, win column, or trophies gleaming on the shelf. Instead of being content with who God designed them to be, individuals look at record-setters and MVPs as their measuring stick, and scramble to emulate the most popular athletes and teams. Biblical success, though, is measured by: 1. Character transformation (Romans 12:1-2) 2. Faith-filled pursuit of our personal God-given potential and calling (Philippians 3:12-14) 3. How we glorify God in the process (John 17:4) Our measuring stick is Jesus. We are to emulate Him and He wants to help us determine what true success looks like. 1. What would it take for your team to be successful? 2. If you could accomplish one thing as a team, what would it be? What obstacles could keep you from pursuing that with everything you have? 3. What changes will you make, starting today, to make 1 and 2 a reality? 1. Today, ask God to show you how you ve been measuring success. 2. As a team, commit to focusing on character transformation, fulfilling your team s potential, and glorifying God. Close: God, as I learn to measure success, help me to look to You rather than the wins. I want to help the team by fulfilling my potential; not comparing myself to others. Thank You for giving me the opportunity to glorify You. Amen. TEAM STUDIES 19 FCA17_TeamBible.indd 19

30 TEAM STUDIES 19 Team Cohesion By Roger Lipe Introduction: A sports team that has good cohesion is one that is strongly unified in its purpose, values, and goals. Such teams experience strong relationships and powerful performance. When we develop team cohesion, we are in a position to experience the most wonderful and pleasant parts of life in sport. 1. Tell us about a team you competed with who were totally unified in purpose. 2. How did that team cohesion affect the team s performance? 3. How did it affect the team s relationships? One of the songs that the people of Israel would sing on their way to Jerusalem for festivals is found in Psalm 133. Verse 1 reads like this: How wonderful and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony! 1. When have you experienced the wonderful things that come when a team competes in harmony or with great team cohesion? 2. What is pleasant about a team s experience when they compete in a tremendously unified way? 1. Tell us about the most recent wonderful thing you have experienced with your team. 2. When do you find your sporting experience to be pleasant? When competing At practice When training When hanging out with teammates Riding the team bus Warming up After competition is over Another time What can your coaches do to help improve your team s cohesion? 2. What can your team leaders do that will build your team s unity in purpose? 3. What are some factors that could tear down your team cohesion that your teammates can guard against? Memory verse: Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace. For there is one body and one Spirit, just as you have been called to one glorious hope for the future. Ephesians 4: FCA17_TeamBible.indd 20

31 TEAM STUDIES 20 Teamwork By Chris Rich Introduction: I love team sports! I love that we get the opportunity to compete and come together around the pursuit of a common mission. A friend of mine used to say to me all the time, None of us are as strong as all of us. This is so true, in sports and in all of life. Teamwork shows us life lessons as well. When we come together, we push one another, sharpen one another, and compliment one another to be the best we could be! 1. Do you feel like you work better together, with teammates, or individually? 2. How do you build up, encourage, and make those around you better? 1. Nehemiah 2:18 shows us the response of the team when Nehemiah lays out the plan. 2. What is the response of the team? 3. When a team comes together, what impact does it have on the outcome? 1. Where does your team work well together? Where are some ways you could get better? 2. A positive culture is one that values every player on a team. Do you value every player and coach in your program? When we come together, value one another, and work together, we have the potential to earn greatness! The greatest way to show teamwork is to serve your teammates. This will bring you together and push you to be the best you could be. Memory verse: They replied at once, Yes, let s rebuild the wall! So they began the good work. Nehemiah 2:18 TEAM STUDIES 21 FCA17_TeamBible.indd 21

32 THE STARTING LINE: YOUR NEW LIFE IN CHRIST 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? 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. 22 FCA17_TeamBible.indd 22

33 THE STARTING LINE: YOUR NEW LIFE IN CHRIST 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: 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? 4. Why do you think Hebrews 4:12 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. THE STARTING LINE 23 FCA17_TeamBible.indd 23

34 THE STARTING LINE: YOUR NEW LIFE IN CHRIST BASIC 2 STAY IN CONSTANT COMMUNICATION WITH YOUR LIFE COACH PRAY Whether we play a team sport or compete individually, 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: 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. 24 FCA17_TeamBible.indd 24

35 THE STARTING LINE: YOUR NEW LIFE IN CHRIST 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. Read 1 Corinthians 12: What does Paul tell us about the importance of teamwork in the church (vv )? 8. What attitudes should we exhibit to others in the church (vv )? 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? THE STARTING LINE 25 FCA17_TeamBible.indd 25

36 HOW TO SHARE YOUR TESTIMONY 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 what God has done, not on what you did wrong in the past. Feel free to use more paper if you need to, but remember, keeping things simple is always best. THREE KEY PARTS TO EVERY TESTIMONY: 1. Before Christ 2. How you came to Christ 3. How you have grown in Christ 26 FCA17_TeamBible.indd 26

37 ABOUT FCA Since 1954, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes has challenged athletes and coaches to impact the world for Jesus Christ. FCA is cultivating Christian principles in local communities nationwide by encouraging, equipping, and empowering others to serve as examples and make a difference. FCA reaches approximately two million people annually on the professional, college, high school, junior high, and youth levels. Through FCA s Four Cs of Ministry Coaches, Campus, Camp, and Community and the shared passion for athletics and faith, lives are changed for current and future generations. VISION: To see the world impacted for Jesus Christ through the influence of coaches and athletes. MISSION: To present to coaches and athletes, and all whom they influence, the challenge and adventure of receiving Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, serving Him in their relationships and in the fellowship of the church. VALUES: Integrity Serving Teamwork Excellence FELLOWSHIP OF CHRISTIAN ATHLETES: 8701 Leeds Road Kansas City, MO fca@fca.org THE STARTING LINE 27 FCA17_TeamBible.indd 27