Sports evangelism is believed to be a very effective tool in spreading the news of Jesus. The athletes, and their ministers, look mostly at Jesus as a conqueror, a fighter, a winner, and as someone who will never leave your side. The do not emphasize His suffering, or Jesus not wanting to be crucified. In the video for AIA, the athletes and coaches talk about how ministers reach out, like Jesus did, and how He changed their lives. In “Wrestling for Jesus” the athletes talked about how Jesus was doing wonderful things in their lives and how their lives were together because of Jesus. Whoever, when his life fell apart T-Money did not go running to Jesus, but relied purely on himself, and his girlfriend, instead.
Hoffman, while giving a lengthy description of the history of sports evangelism, had a few issues with the institution. He believes that full contact sports induce a rage that was not there in the first place, and that using such sports to spread the word of God seems oxymoronic. Another problem seems to be that people will not listen to the message if the athlete is not a winner. This can cause people to cheat, or conduct themselves in non-sportsman-like behavior, which is not very Christ like.
Personally I agree with sports evangelism. Today’s culture has made the Jesus portrayed in churches much too feminine. Sermons have become about feelings, and felling right with God, which is great for trying to attract women into churches, or a relationship with Christ, but does little for the men. Being able to talk about God and do “manly” things is a great way to minister to men.
Hoffman, while giving a lengthy description of the history of sports evangelism, had a few issues with the institution. He believes that full contact sports induce a rage that was not there in the first place, and that using such sports to spread the word of God seems oxymoronic. Another problem seems to be that people will not listen to the message if the athlete is not a winner. This can cause people to cheat, or conduct themselves in non-sportsman-like behavior, which is not very Christ like.
Personally I agree with sports evangelism. Today’s culture has made the Jesus portrayed in churches much too feminine. Sermons have become about feelings, and felling right with God, which is great for trying to attract women into churches, or a relationship with Christ, but does little for the men. Being able to talk about God and do “manly” things is a great way to minister to men.
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